Photogrammetry Versus Cephalometric Analysis in Orthodontic Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

OBJECTIVES: Cephalometric analysis constitutes the benchmark for diagnosing craniofacial morphology but the increasing demand for aesthetic standards rising concerns about radiation has clinicians looking for an easily reproducible, economical and low technique sensitive alternative. The study was undertaken to assess the relationship between lateral cephalograms and photographic measurements to determine whether photographs can be a substitute for conventional cephalograms.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Standardized profile photographs and lateral cephalograms were obtained from 100 patients of the age group between 12 – 28 years who had reported to the department for orthodontic treatment. Traditional cephalometric (angular and linear) measurements and corresponding photographic measurements used for sagittal and vertical assessment were correlated to draw inference.RESULTS: The reliability of the photographic technique was proven with Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) above 0.79. Highly significant correlation (P < .001) was found between all parameters. N-Sn-Pog/N’-Sn-Pog’ (0.946), SN-MP/TrN’-MP” (0.844) and FMA/FMA’ showed the highest coefficients of correlation. The photographic variable that best explained the variability of its analogous cephalometric measurement was N-SN-Pog angle (r2 = 0.895). CONCLUSION: The photographic method has proven to be a repeatable and reproducible. With a homogenous protocol, the photographic method is a practical alternative to lateral cephalograms especially in cases that require a non-invasive, low-cost option.CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This research provides a non radiographic alternative to lateral cephalometry which is more economical, easy to set up and equally accurate in producing the desired results.