Esthetics and smile characteristics from the layperson's perspective: a computer-based survey study
A J Ker1, Richard Chan, Henry W Fields
1College of Dentistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43218-2357, USA.
Journal of the American Dental Association (1939)
|October 4, 2008
Summary
Laypeople can reliably identify ideal smile characteristics, finding large acceptable ranges for deviations. Dentists should focus on significant discrepancies rather than minor ones to avoid over-sensitizing patients.
Area of Science:
- Dental Aesthetics
- Facial Analysis
- Smile Design
Background:
- The shift towards esthetics in dentistry emphasizes the relationship between teeth and soft tissues.
- Quantifying ideal and acceptable variations in smile characteristics is crucial for esthetic evaluations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the ideal and maximum acceptable deviations for various smile characteristics.
- To assess the reliability of laypeople in identifying these ideal and acceptable smile parameters.
Main Methods:
- A digital survey was created using image editing software, allowing manipulation of intraoral photographs.
- Participants rated ideal smile characteristics and their acceptable ranges on a sex-neutral face.
- Surveys were administered electronically across three US cities: Boston, Columbus, and Seattle.
Main Results:
- Raters demonstrated reliable identification of smile characteristics (kappa = 0.34-0.88).
- Geographic location showed minor influence, with Western participants accepting broader smiles.
- Ideals and thresholds were identified for numerous characteristics, including smile arc, buccal corridor, and midline alignment.
Conclusions:
- Laypeople can reliably identify ideal smile characteristics and acceptable deviation ranges.
- The study highlights broad acceptability ranges, suggesting practitioners should avoid over-emphasizing minor esthetic discrepancies to patients.
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