Cranio-oro-facial features and masticatory function in patients with craniosynostosis

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate cranio-oro-facial features and masticatory function in Thai subjects with craniosynostosis.

Methods: Thirteen craniosynostosis (CS) patients aged between 6 - 17 years old who had treatment at the Princess Sirindhorn Craniofacial (PSC) Center, King Chulalongkorn memorial hospital and thirty age-matched non-CS subjects were recruited. Inform consents were obtained. Medical records were retrieved. Craniofacial and oral examination, radiographic evaluation, photograph, and masticatory function were recorded and compared with data of control subjects and that of Thai norms.

Results: Among thirteen CS patients, four cases had cleft palate (30.8%), five had anterior openbite (38.5%), seven had anterior crossbite (53.8%), and one had supernumerary tooth (7.7%). 61.5% of CS patients (8/13) exhibited posterior crossbite, congenital missing teeth, Class III malocclusion and maxillary tooth crowding. Mandibular tooth crowding and tooth eruption failure were observed in six patients (46.2%). Nine patients had high caries risk (69.2%). The simplified oral hygiene index, caries prevalence, lateral cephalometric analysis (e.g. SNA, ANB, Wits, FMA, IMPA, L1-NB, U1-NA, Maxillary depth, Convexity of point A, Mandibular arc, Posterior facial height, and U1 to APog), masticatory performance, and food intake ability test showed significant differences between patient and control groups.

Conclusions: The study shows that CS patients have poor oral hygiene, high caries risk, and compromised masticatory function. The anomalies of craniofacial and oral structures might affect oral hygiene care and mastication of CS patients. We suggest that strict oral hygiene care and frequent dental check-up together with the collaboration of multidisciplinary team are necessary for CS patients to maintain optimal oral and medical health.