Int J Stomatol

Int J Stomatol ›› 2026, Vol. 53 ›› Issue (6): 906-914.doi: 10.7518/gjkq.2026129

• Review • Previous Articles    

Research advances in the classification system and craniofacial features of facial asymmetry

Shangyan Sui1(),Yanji Gong2,Jinyi Zhu1,Haolin Li1,Yang Liu1()   

  1. 1.State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Dept. of Temporomandibular Joint, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
    2.State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Dept. of Jinjiang Out-patient, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
  • Received:2025-09-19 Revised:2026-03-18 Online:2026-11-01 Published:2026-10-29
  • Contact: Yang Liu E-mail:suishangyan@163.com;liu@scu.edu.cn
  • Supported by:
    National Key Research and Development Program of China(2023YFC3605600);Natural Science Foundation of Sichuan Province(2023NSFSC0568)

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Abstract:

Facial asymmetry is a common deformity of the oral and maxillofacial region. It is primarily characterized by mandibular deviation. Research on its classification system and clinical characteristics is crucial for its precise diagnosis and treatment. The classification system of facial asymmetry is diverse and can be systematically categorized on the basis of the duration of action of teratogenic factors, the morphology and displacement mode of the mandible, clinical characteristics, and pathological mechanisms. Patients with maxillary deformities frequently exhibit characteristic alterations in cranio-maxillofacial structures, including the skull, maxilla, mandible, and temporomandibular joints; occlusal relationships and functions; soft tissue morphology; and airway anatomy. This article provides an overview of the classification systems for facial asymmetry and reviews related to research on cranio-maxillofacial characteristics while also addressing the limitations of the current research in this field. It aims to offer valuable insights for clinical diagnosis and treatment, as well as to guide future scientific investigations into facial asymmetry.

Key words: facial asymmetry, temporomandibular joint, craniofacial feature

CLC Number: 

  • R782.2+3

TrendMD: 

Fig 1

Schematic diagram of different three-dimensional mandibular movement patterns of facial asymmetry"

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