Skeletal Pattern
A description of the underlying jaw relationship in all three planes of space, independent of the teeth, used to guide orthodontic and surgical treatment planning.
Full Definition
Skeletal pattern refers to the relative position of the maxilla and mandible as assessed on cephalometric analysis, and is classified in the anteroposterior plane (Classes I, II, III), the vertical plane (hyperdivergent, normodivergent, hypodivergent), and the transverse plane. It is distinct from the dental or incisor relationship, which may differ due to dento-alveolar compensation. Editors should note that 'skeletal' is an adjective and should not be used as a standalone noun. The term appears frequently in referral letters, case reports, and treatment summaries.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish carefully from 'dental relationship'. Editors should query any document that uses 'skeletal' as a noun (e.g. 'the skeletal is Class II') — it must be used attributively.
In Context
- "A hyperdivergent skeletal pattern was noted, with an increased Frankfort–mandibular planes angle." — Cephalometric analysis report
- "The skeletal pattern was Class III, which was partially masked by dento-alveolar compensation." — Orthodontic referral letter