A study on facial symmetry of 13～18 years-old adolescents in Shenzhen

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the facial symmetry in 13～18 years-old adolescents in Shenzhen, who display no obvious mandibular deviation, and find the causes of asymmetry. Methods The sample consisted of 100 volunteers aged from 13 to 18. The frontal photos were evaluated and measured with the use of the self-designed software to find out the causes of facial asymmetry. Results No significant difference existed in gender distribution between two groups (P＞0.05). Go'_ratio and ch_ratio were significantly different when compared the symmetry group (1.036±0.015 and 1.049±0.075) with asymmetry group (1.067±0.037 and 1.137±0.122,P＜0.05). The asymmetry rate of Go'and Ch was significantly different between the two groups.Conclusions No gender difference in the prevalence of facial asymmetry. The facial asymmetry can be recognized when the asymmetry rate reaches 6.1% in Go' and 11.1% in Ch. Gonion point is an important factor in the evaluation of the facial symmetry and should be paid attention in orthodontic treatment. Key words: Maxillofacial;  Symmetry;  Soft tissue;  Adolescent