Comparison of preferences in lip position using computer animated imaging

The objectives of this study were to examine the esthetic preferences of lip position in males and females, and to compare them with each other and with a common orthodontic standard using a custom computer animation program. The sample consisted of 53 young adult subjects, 25 males and 28 females. The sample was divided into orthodontically treated and untreated subjects. ANOVA and Scheffé tests were carried out to determine differences between the responses of the various groups. Also, t-tests were used to compare subjects' responses to a commonly used orthodontic standard (Ricketts' E-line). The results indicated a sex-effect, with females preferring fuller lips than males. Significant differences were also found between orthodontically treated subjects and untreated subjects, with untreated subjects preferring fuller lips. Differences were significant at p<0.05. Furthermore, both males and females preferred lip fullness greater than the Ricketts' values.