Objective: Comparison of the use of two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) images for rating dental arch relationships.
Materials and methods: The sample consists of pretreatment dental casts, 2D photographs, and 3D images of 70 patients with unilateral complete cleft lip and palate. Two experienced examiners used the Goslon Yardstick to rate dental arch relationships. The ratings were done three times for all groups. Weighted kappa statistics were used to evaluate intra- and interrater agreement and the agreement between the groups.
Results: Intra- and interexaminer agreement were high for all groups (between 0.86 and 0.96), indicating very good reproducibility. The mean Goslon scores ranged between 2.84 and 2.90.
Conclusion: 2D and 3D imaging of dental casts provides a valid alternative for actual study models for rating dental arch relationships.