Relationship between vertical dimension and anthropometric facial measurements in Universidad Nacional Pedro Henríquez Ureña patients.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the occlusal vertical dimension
(OVD) and various anthropometric measurements of the face and hand in a sample of
patients treated at the Pedro Henríquez Ureña National University (UNPHU). The research is
based on the hypothesis that there is a significant correlation between these measurements
and the DVO, with the purpose of establishing auxiliary parameters that contribute to its
clinical determination, especially in oral rehabilitation contexts.
A data collection protocol was designed that included demographic information, determination
of facial biotype by clinical observation, and accurate measurements of the DVO and other
anatomical structures. Measurements were performed using high-precision digital
instruments, such as the caliper and digital optical ruler. The sample consisted of adult
patients, categorized by sex and facial biotype (mesofacial, brachyfacial and dolichofacial),
who gave informed consent.
Statistical analysis included the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test to verify the normality of the data
and Pearson's correlation coefficient to evaluate the relationships between variables. The
results evidenced a strong positive correlation between DVO and vertical dimension at rest,
as well as a moderate negative correlation with interocclusal clearance, these being the most
consistent associations. On the other hand, weak to moderate correlations were observed
between DVO and measurements such as eye-commissure distance, nose-glabella length,
and ear height. As for finger measurements, correlations were weak, with slight variations
according to the sex of the patient. No significant differences were identified in relation to the
predominant hemibody.
Likewise, it was found that patients with dolichofacial biotype tend to present a decreased
DVO compared to other biotypes, which suggests the influence of the facial pattern in the
determination of this dimension. These findings underscore the need to individualize
measurement methods, considering variables such as sex and facial morphology.
In conclusion, the results obtained support the use of certain anthropometric measurements
as complementary tools in the estimation of the DVO. However, their clinical application
should be carried out with caution, adapting them to the particular characteristics of the
patient. This study provides relevant information for the Dominican population, highlighting the
importance of continuing to develop research to validate these methods in different population
contexts.