ANB Angle — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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

EasyOrthodontic PrinciplesANB AngleMFDS Part 1

Which anatomical relationship is principally assessed by the ANB angle (A–Nasion–B) on a lateral cephalometric radiograph?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — The sagittal skeletal relationship between the maxillary and mandibular apical bases

The correct answer is C. The ANB angle is formed by point A, nasion and point B and is used principally to assess the sagittal skeletal relationship between the maxillary and mandibular apical bases. A UK reference value is approximately 3° ± 1°; larger values generally suggest a Class II skeletal relationship, whereas reduced or negative values suggest a Class III relationship. It should be interpreted with other findings because cranial-base geometry and vertical jaw relationships can affect it. Mandibular incisor inclination is assessed using measurements such as the lower-incisor-to-mandibular-plane angle. Dental arch width requires transverse model or scan measurements. Facial height is assessed using vertical linear measurements or proportions, while hyoid position requires separate airway or cervical-reference measurements.

Reference: Boccalari E et al. The Maxillomandibular Sagittal Assessment: The ABwise Appraisal and Its Correlation with ANB Angle. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2025;14(4):1379. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40004908/