What is meant by facial divergence
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facial divergence orthodontics definition types
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Facial Divergence
Facial divergence is an orthodontic/craniofacial term that describes the anterior or posterior inclination of the lower face (mandible) relative to the upper face (forehead). In simple terms, it tells you in which direction the face "opens up" or "diverges" when viewed from the side.
How It Is Assessed
Facial divergence is evaluated clinically by drawing (or imagining) a line along the forehead and another along the lower face/chin, then observing whether these lines converge or diverge. On a lateral cephalogram, angles like the Frankfort-Mandibular plane angle (FMA) or the Y-axis (saddle angle) are measured to quantify divergence.
Types of Facial Divergence
There are three recognized facial types based on divergence:
1. Anterior Divergent Face (Hyperdivergent)
- The lower face is inclined forward and downward relative to the forehead
- The face appears to "open" anteriorly - the chin is positioned down and forward
- Associated with: increased lower face height, high mandibular plane angle, open bite tendency, long face syndrome
- Skeletal pattern: downward and backward rotation of the mandible
- Clinically: narrow face, lip incompetence, anterior open bite
2. Posterior Divergent Face (Hypodivergent)
- The lower face tilts backward relative to the forehead
- The face "opens" posteriorly - the chin is positioned upward relative to the forehead
- Associated with: decreased lower face height, low mandibular plane angle, deep bite tendency, short face syndrome
- Skeletal pattern: forward and upward rotation of the mandible
- Clinically: square jaw, deep overbite, strong masticatory muscles
3. Orthognathic (Straight) Face - Normal Divergence
- The forehead and lower face are roughly parallel or show minimal divergence
- This is considered the ideal or "average" facial type
- Balanced facial proportions with normal lower facial height
Clinical Significance
Facial divergence has major importance in orthodontic and surgical treatment planning:
| Feature | Hyperdivergent (Anterior) | Hypodivergent (Posterior) |
|---|---|---|
| Face height | Increased | Decreased |
| Bite type | Open bite tendency | Deep bite tendency |
| Mandibular plane | Steep | Flat |
| Lip closure | Difficult (incompetent) | Easy |
| Treatment challenge | Controlling vertical dimension | Opening bite |
| Orthognathic surgery | Le Fort I + BSSO | BSSO with clockwise rotation |
Summary
Facial divergence essentially describes the vertical growth pattern of the face. An anterior divergent (hyperdivergent) face grows more vertically, while a posterior divergent (hypodivergent) face grows more horizontally. Recognizing this pattern is a foundational step in orthodontic diagnosis, because it influences treatment mechanics, appliance selection, and whether orthognathic surgery may be needed. The ResearchGate diagram by Proffit & Fields provides a clear visual comparison of all three facial divergence types.
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