Volumetric analysis of mastoid air cells in orthodontic malocclusions in 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Objectives: To determine age- and sex-related changes in mastoid air cells volume in orthodontic malocclusions (class 1, class 2, class 3) in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), morphometric analysis, and age prediction on the basis of mastoid air cells.

Methods: In total, 150 3D CBCT scans of study subjects having class 1, class 2, and class 3 malocclusions have been analyzed retrospectively for the estimation of volume of mastoid air cells by Dolphin imaging software V11.9, and measurement data of volumes have been recorded and analyzed using SPSS software 24.v.

Results: The volume of mastoid air cells was highest in age group of 14-28 years which was statistically not significant (P value >.05). The volume of mastoid air cells in the right side of cranium is greater than mastoid air cells in the left side. The mastoid air cell volume was higher in males than females. The volume of mastoid air cells (right side) was highest in class II malocclusion (2404.53 ± 1737.50 mm³) followed by class III and was least in class I malocclusion (1842.09 ± 1263.78 mm³). However, the volume of mastoid air cells in the left side was highest in class III malocclusion (2368.03 ± 1853.00 mm³) followed by class II and was least in class I (1920.52 ± 1285.34 mm³).

Conclusions: The volume of mastoid air cells varies in different class of orthodontic malocclusions. The mastoid air cells volume is higher in males than females. On the basis of mastoid air cells volume, we are able to predict the age, sex, and class of orthodontic malocclusion.