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The ideal smile and its orthodontic implications
Sujala Ganapati Durgekar1, Nagaraj K, Vijay Naik
1Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, KLE Vashwanath Katti Institute of Dental Sciences, KLE University, JNMC Campus, Belgaum, India. sujala2003@yahoo.com
World Journal of Orthodontics
|September 30, 2010
Summary
An ideal smile is symmetrical with a consonant smile arc and specific measurements for smile line ratio, buccal corridor, and smile index. These parameters help define smile aesthetics and guide orthodontic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Facial Aesthetics
Background:
- Defining an ideal smile is crucial in orthodontics for achieving aesthetically pleasing results.
- Previous research has identified various components contributing to smile aesthetics, but a comprehensive parameter set is still evolving.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the key parameters that define an ideal smile.
- To establish objective criteria for evaluating smile aesthetics.
Main Methods:
- Laypersons rated 62 smiles (ages 18-25) on a 5-point scale.
- The top and bottom 5 smiles were analyzed for seven parameters: buccal corridor, smile index, smile symmetry, smile line ratio, upper lip line, smile arc, and upper lip curvature.
Main Results:
- Ideal smiles were symmetrical, with an average upper lip line and consonant smile arc.
- Specific ranges were identified for smile line ratio (1.0-1.3 mm), buccal corridor (9.0%-11.0%), and smile index (4.0-6.0 mm).
- Conversely, lower-scoring smiles often lacked symmetry, had high upper lip lines, downward curvature, and non-consonant smile arcs.
Conclusions:
- The seven investigated smile parameters effectively define characteristics of an ideal smile.
- Incorporating these parameters into orthodontic problem lists can aid in selecting appropriate mechanotherapy for smile enhancement.
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