Cephalometric analysis method

Schmüth analysis online — lateral cephalogram analysis

G. Schmüth · DE classic

European norms

Schmüth analysis describes sagittal and vertical relations in German-language cephalometric tradition. G. Schmüth remains a reference for comparison with Schwarz and Downs on one tracing. CephCalc delivers core SNA, SNB, ANB, SN-MP, SN-NL, and incisors I-SN and i-MP. Residency uses the preset for exam review of European schools. Classic DE school for comparative teaching.

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Schmüth

About the method

Schmüth analysis describes sagittal and vertical relationships and incisor position in the German-language cephalometric tradition. G. Schmüth remains a recognizable reference for comparative review with Schwarz and Downs on one image. The CephCalc preset limits to the implemented landmark core so the table stays readable at the chair. SNA, SNB, ANB, and SN-MP give a familiar framework; I-SN and i-MP link skeleton to incisors. Check source image quality: soft-tissue contrast and landmark clarity affect repeatability on follow-up cephalograms. Schmüth suits exam-style comparison with Schwarz.

What the analysis focuses on

Sagittal SNA, SNB, ANB, vertical SN-MP and SN-NL, incisor inclination I-SN and i-MP.

When to use it clinically

Suitable for comparative analysis and teaching European cephalometric schools. In residency Schmüth demonstrates how DE schools read the same angles. For airway and soft tissues choose McNamara airways or Holdaway separately. Schmüth does not replace Wits with borderline ANB — switch preset on the same image if needed. On case review, match the CephCalc table with profile photos, models, and TMJ exam: numbers without context are easy to misread. Include Ii in resident summaries. Compare Schmüth and Schwarz in one CephCalc PDF.

What CephCalc calculates

  • 14 landmarks
  • 8 measurements
  • SNA: ∠ SNA — angle between lines S–N and A–N (maxillary position relative to the cranial base)
  • SNB: ∠ SNB — angle between lines S–N and B–N (mandibular position)
  • ANB: ∠ ANB — difference in jaw positions: angle between B–N and A–N
  • SN-MP: ∠ SN-MP — angle between S–N and the mandibular tangent K2–Me
  • I-SN: ∠ I-SN — upper incisor inclination A1–A2 to the S–N plane
  • i-MP: ∠ i-MP — lower incisor inclination B1–B2 to the K2–Me plane
  • Ii: ∠ Ii — interincisal angle between incisor axes
  • SN-NL: ∠ SN-NL — orientation of the palatal plane PNS–ANS relative to S–N

Schmüth measurements for students

Schmüth reinforces sagittal links with vertical SN-MP and SN-NL. I-SN and i-MP show incisor compensation. Students benefit from a table “Schmüth angle / Steiner analog” on one case.
  • SNA, SNB, ANB
  • SN-MP, SN-NL
  • I-SN, i-MP, Ii
  • Compare with Schwarz in CephCalc

Typical errors on the DE framework

Base points match other European schools. S and N errors shift all angles. Check SN symmetry. Incisor axes follow crowns.
  • One tracing — several schools
  • Go–Me consistent
  • Stable incisor axes
  • Head tilt — note in chart

Combinations and limitations

With borderline ANB add Wits. Jarabak gives growth type. CephCalc switches presets without re-tracing on the same film.
  • Schwarz — NL–MP emphasis
  • Wits — sagittal
  • McNamara — lengths
  • Holdaway — E-line

Try it in practice — free

Try it in practice

Upload a lateral cephalogram to CephCalc, place the landmarks, and run the Schmüth analysis online — no software to install. Try it in practice free.

  • Ready-made method preset on your radiograph
  • Table of angular and linear measurements with race-specific reference norms (Caucasoid, East Asian, African)
  • Save to the patient chart and export to PDF
  • 5 free patient chart slots to get started

Frequently asked questions

Where can I run Schmüth analysis online?
In CephCalc select Schmüth, trace base landmarks and incisor axes. The table appears with race-specific norms and saves to the patient chart.
How does Schmüth differ from Schwarz?
Schmüth and Schwarz are close in angles; they differ in report emphasis and teaching tradition. Comparison on one film shows SNA, SNB, and ANB stability.
Why Schmüth on residency exams?
Schmüth shows how DE schools read common SN angles. On exams it helps to state differences among Schwarz, Schmüth, and Downs without changing S, N, A, and B.
Is the preset useful for teaching?
Yes. It suits teaching review and comparison with Schwarz. CephCalc exports PDF for department protocols.
What does Schmüth not provide?
Schmüth does not describe airway or detailed soft tissue. Add McNamara airways and Holdaway for those clinical questions.