Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
3118452 American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics 2008 6 Pages PDF
Abstract

IntroductionLow positioning of the hyoid bone is associated with the unique human ability of speech, but it might also predispose the airway to collapse. The low position of the hyoid bone has been studied in adults with sleep apnea. However, information on age-related changes in hyoid bone position in the general adult population is sparse.MethodsWe used pairs of lateral cephalometric radiographs taken 15 years apart to assess vertical changes over time in hyoid position in 163 normal white men (ages, 30-72 years).Results and ConclusionsSignificant changes in hyoid bone position were independent of age or obesity but were related to facial type, as classified by the steepness of the lower margin of the mandible. Changes in hyoid position over time were significant in dolichofacial subjects but not in brachyfacial subjects. This finding might be particularly important because a low hyoid bone with a brachial face appears to be a morphologic characteristic of nonobese patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea.

Related Topics
Health Sciences Medicine and Dentistry Dentistry, Oral Surgery and Medicine
Authors
, , , ,