ASSESSMENT OF NUMBER, SHAPE, LENGTH, ORIENTATION, AND UNION OF PALATAL RUGAE ACROSS DIFFERENT SAGITTAL MALOCCLUSION TYPES: A DIAGNOSTIC PERSPECTIVE

Background: Palatal rugae are unique anatomical structures located on the anterior part of the hard palate, characterized by individual morphological stability and variability. Their potential role in orthodontic diagnosis and forensic identification has garnered increasing attention. While previous studies have explored specific rugae traits, few have comprehensively analyzed multiple characteristics across different sagittal malocclusion types, genders, and treatment phases. Aim: To evaluate and compare the number, shape, length, orientation, and union of palatal rugae among individuals with different sagittal malocclusion types (Class I, Class II Division 1, Class II Division 2, and Class III), across genders and between pre-orthodontic and post-orthodontic treatment stages. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional clinical study involved 300 participants, aged 18 to 28 years, divided equally into three groups based on untreated sagittal malocclusion: Class I, Class II, and Class III, according to Angle’s classification. Key parameter that includes number, shape, length, orientation, and presence of union across different malocclusion classes were assessed and statistically analyzed using Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 26.0. Results: Rugae number significantly varied across malocclusion types (p = 0.002), with the highest count observed in Class II Division 2 and the lowest in Class III. Females exhibited a significantly higher rugae count than males (p = 0.021). Rugae length showed no significant changes between pre- and post-treatment stages (p > 0.05). Shape distribution differed significantly by malocclusion class (p = 0.049), with wavy and curved patterns dominating specific groups. Orientation patterns were also significantly associated with malocclusion types (p = 0.034), with posterior orientation more frequent in Class III and Class II Division 2. The presence of rugae union was rare and statistically insignificant across groups. Conclusion: Palatal rugae characteristics-particularly number, shape, and orientation—demonstrate significant diagnostic associations with sagittal malocclusion types and gender. Their morphological stability across treatment stages supports their utility as a reliable, non-invasive diagnostic adjunct in orthodontics and a valuable tool in forensic identification.