[Sagittal photogrammetric evaluation of the soft tissue profile between two different racial groups: a comparative study]

Abstract

Introduction: Facial soft-tissue analyses made from photographic records (photogrammetric analysis of the soft tissues) showed interracial dimorphism. Standard of these facial analyses, originally obtained from Caucasian might not be appropriate for the diagnosis and treatment planning of other groups of orthodontic patients. The purpose of this study was to compare the sagittal photogrammetric soft tissue profile characteristics between Senegalese and Moroccan adults.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was performed in a group of Senegalese and Moroccan students in the Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Dentistry of Dakar. Standardized facial-profile photographs were taken with each student in natural head position, centric relation, and relaxed lip posture. Twenty four linear parameters were measured on paper sheet using a graduated ruler. For each variable mean and SD were calculated. In addition independent samples t-test was performed to detect sexual and racial dimorphism. Results were regarded as significant at p = 0.05.

Results: Senegalese subjects had significantly more lips protrusion than Moroccan who had significantly a more elongated and more anterior positioned nose, a more chin prominence and a tendency to cutaneous class II than Senegalese.

Conclusion: Further studies including different age groups subjects would allow having longitudinal data according to age.