Comparison of cervical spine curvature, neck muscle activity and posture in individuals with normal occlusion versus those with sagittal malocclusions pre and post orthodontic assessment

This observational case-control study aims to evaluate the relationship between dental occlusion and cervical spine posture. Sixty participants will be recruited, including thirty individuals with normal Class I occlusion and thirty individuals with sagittal malocclusions classified as Class II or Class III. Baseline assessments will include lateral cephalometric radiographs for cervical spine curvature, surface electromyography of sternocleidomastoid and upper trapezius muscles, and photogrammetric analysis of craniovertebral angle to assess forward head posture. Malocclusion participants will undergo standard orthodontic treatment to correct their bite and will be reassessed after treatment completion. The study will compare pre and post treatment posture changes within the malocclusion group and also compare these findings with control subjects. The primary objective is to determine whether orthodontic correction leads to improvement in cervical posture and muscle activity. Findings may have implications for integrating postural considerations in orthodontic and prosthodontic treatment planning.