Abstract

Many researchers tried to define and put cephalometric norms for different ethnics groups. However, these studies may be specific to an ethnic group and cannot always be applied to other ethnic types. The aim of this study is to obtain  cephalometric norms for Malaysian Malay by Steiner analysis and compare with Caucasian norms. The method involved clinical examination, collection and analysis of 60 lateral cephalometric radiograph of Malaysian Malay subjects from pure ethnic group (30 males and 30 females, 20 to 24 years old). All cephalometric landmarks were located and determined and subsequently tracing had been done according to Steiner analysis. Statistical comparisons between the groups were done using t-test.  The result of this study show that the Malaysian Malay maxilla and mandible is set more forward than Caucasian. They also show bimaxillary dental protusion when compared to Caucasian. The Malaysian Malay has more protrusive upper and lower lips, the chin is less prominent when compared to Caucasian. Malaysian Malay have higher cant of both the occlusal and the mandibular planes, mandibular posterior rotation when compared to the Caucasian. In conclusion, these ethnic differences should be considered during treatment, especially in prosthodontics and orthodontics where arch dimension can be modified appreciably.

Key words: Lateral cephalometric radiograph, facial profile. Steiner analysis, Caucasian norms, Malaysian Malay population.