Cephalometric Analysis — ORE Part 1 MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyOrthodonticsCephalometric AnalysisORE Part 1

A 25-year-old patient is assessed before orthodontic treatment. Using conventional ANB cephalometric norms, the ANB angle is 8°. Which skeletal sagittal pattern is indicated?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Class II skeletal pattern

**A. Class II skeletal pattern** is correct. Using conventional cephalometric interpretation, ANB is approximately 2 ± 3° in a Class I skeletal relationship. An ANB of 8° is therefore increased and indicates a Class II sagittal skeletal pattern, commonly reflecting relative maxillary prominence, mandibular retrusion, or both. Class I and “normal” patterns are inconsistent with this substantially increased value. A Class III pattern is usually associated with a reduced or negative ANB value. ANB should not be used as the sole diagnostic measure in comprehensive orthodontic assessment because craniofacial geometry can affect it; however, the stem specifically asks for its conventional classification, making Class II the single best answer.

Reference: Taylor CM, Sadowsky PL. Analysis of factors affecting angle ANB. American Journal of Orthodontics. 1984. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6586080/