Bigonial diameter is a term used in anatomy to describe the distance between the two angles of the jaw. This measurement is important in determining the size and shape of the jaw, as well as in diagnosing certain medical conditions. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of bigonial diameter, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
The bigonial diameter is the distance between the two angles of the jaw, measured from one angle to the other. It is also known as the mandibular width or the bi-zygomatic width. The measurement is usually taken using a caliper or a ruler.
Origin
The term bigonial diameter comes from the Greek words “bi” meaning two, “gonia” meaning angle, and “diameter” meaning distance. The term was first used in the field of anthropology to describe the size and shape of the jaw in different populations.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to Merriam-Webster, bigonial diameter is “the distance between the two angles of the lower jaw”. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the distance between the two angles of the mandible”.
Associations
The bigonial diameter is an important measurement in dentistry, orthodontics, and plastic surgery. It is used to diagnose conditions such as mandibular prognathism (a condition where the lower jaw protrudes forward), micrognathia (a condition where the lower jaw is abnormally small), and facial asymmetry.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of bigonial diameter include mandibular width, bi-zygomatic width, and bi-angular width.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms for bigonial diameter.
The same root words
The root words “bi” and “gonia” are also found in other medical terms such as bicuspid (a tooth with two cusps) and trigonometry (the study of triangles).
Example Sentences
- The bigonial diameter was measured to determine the size and shape of the patient’s jaw.
- The orthodontist used the bigonial diameter measurement to diagnose the patient’s mandibular prognathism.
- The plastic surgeon used the bigonial diameter measurement to plan the reconstruction of the patient’s jaw.