Cephalometric Evaluation of Airway Dimensions in Subjects with Different Vertical Growth Patterns: A Retrospective Cross-sectional Study

can cause mandibular depression, lip incompetence, and lingual mispositioning.This alteration results in altered facial growth forces.Consequently, individuals may exhibit vertical facial growth, maxillary narrowing, and a steep mandibular plane.6,7,12,14 Mouth breathing can arise from various factors, including BackgroundUpper airway space structures are crucial for craniofacial development and essential considerations in orthodontic assessments and treatment plans.Airway abnormalities can disrupt craniofacial growth and potentially lead to mouth breathing.[1][2][3] The pharynx extends from the cranial base to the sixth cervical vertebra and comprises three distinct regions: the (1) nasopharynx, (2) oropharynx, and (3) laryngopharynx.1,[4][5][6][7] It plays a crucial role in both respiratory and digestive functions.1,4,8 Its dimensions are affected by the relative growth, soft tissue capsule, position, and morphology of the mandible.4,9 The pharyngeal airway widths are largely influenced by the growth and size of the soft tissues encircling the dentofacial skeleton.1,10 Craniofacial malformations, such as retrognathism of the mandible and maxilla, a short mandibular body, and a backwards and downwards rotation of the mandible, can lead to a reduction in the size of the pharyngeal airway passages.9,10 Early assessment of airway dimensions, particularly vertical height, is crucial for preventing future airway complications. 1 Furthermore, individuals with enlarged soft palates may be at risk for obstructive sleep apnea.1,7,11 A normal air way is crucial for proper craniofacial development.6,[11][12][13][14] Any obstruction leading to mouth breathing 1-