Inquadramento diagnostico e clinico delle asimmetrie scheletriche di interesse ortodontico

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVES. The aim of this paper is to provide the tools to differentiate physiological and pathological asymmetry and to recognize the severity of the malocclusion. MATERIALS AND METHODS. On the basis of a survey of literature, a classification of craniofacial asymmetries is provided with particular reference to the aetiology and diagnosis of the skeletal mandibular asymmetry. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS. The aetiology of mandibular asymmetries is multifactorial including genetic, enviromental and congenital influences. Clinical examination, X-ray analysis and dental casts play an essential role in the correct diagnosis of skeletal anomalies and understanding the degree of skeletal asymmetry.