Evaluation of Gonial Angle, Ramus Height and Bigonial width in Relation to Age and Gender using Digital Panoramic Radiograph

Abstract

Background: Age and gender have important effect on Gonial angle, ramus height and bigonial width. Objective: To evaluate the changes in gonial angle, bigonial width and ramus height measured from panoramic radiographs, in relation to age and gender. Patients and Methods: Fifty digital panoramic radiographs were evaluated (25 male and 25 female). The patients classified into 5 groups according to age, starting from 20 years old to 60 years and above with ten years interval . The gonial angle, ramus height and bigonial width were measured by digital panoramic radiographs by using Planmeca Romix software program. Results: Gonial angle, ramus height and Bigonial width increased with age. Gonial angle of the left side was greater than the right side and females had larger gonial angle compared to male. The measurements show that the ramus height was greater on the right side than the left side, greater ramus height and bigonial width in male patients. Conclusion: Gonial angle, ramus height and bigonial width are the most important and widely used radiographic landmarks in orthodontic tracing for evaluation of growth pattern and treatment planning. It’s also used as a basic reference for forensic dentistry and for comparison with other nationalities and races.