Finishing Analysis of Dental Outcome (FADO) as a New Guide in Orthodontic Treatment

Evaluation of aesthetics of posed smiles based on smile-related characteristics

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the aesthetics evaluation of four smile-related characteristics among different genders and professional subgroups, including dental professionals (DPs), non-dental healthcare professionals (NDPs), and laypersons (LPs).

METHODS

Smile photographs were selected and digitally manipulated to determine changes in various smile aesthetic parameters (lip thickness ratio, smile line/smile index, upper lip curvature, and smile arc/dental curvature). These altered images were rated by Chinese participants (dental professionals, non-dental healthcare professionals, and laypersons). A total of 1469 subjects were recruited to complete the questionnaire. Smile aesthetics ratings were calculated, and comparisons between groups were made.

RESULTS

All respondents chose 1:1.5 lip thickness ratio, average smile line, upward upper lip curvature, and upward dental curvature (consonant smile arc) parallel to the lower lip curvature smile arc as the most attractive. Dental professionals (DPs) more focus on smile aesthetics compared to the others(p < 0.01). Significant differences were detected in the perception of smile-related characteristics across gender and professional subgroups(p < 0.05). In addition, there were significant differences in the attractiveness ratings for smiles among professional subgroups(p < 0.05). The most important factor influencing smile aesthetics in the present study was smile arc.

CONCLUSION

The smile-related characteristics of the smile, such as the lip thickness ratio, smile line, upper lip curvature, and smile arc are predominant factors influencing smile attractiveness and should be given priority when considering and managing aesthetic treatment plans. Females and DPs are more critical of smile aesthetics, and DPs are also focused more on smile aesthetics than laypersons. So it is necessary to account for the influence of gender and profession on personal evaluation and treatment plans.

Smile Aesthetics Assessment in Patients Undergoing the Finishing Phase of Orthodontic Treatment: An Observational Cross-Sectional Study

Objective To describe the smile characteristics of patients entering the finishing phase of orthodontic treatment. Methods This observational study involved a non-probabilistic sample of 48 patients. Clinical records served as the basis for determining the type of treatment (with or without extractions). Photographs were analyzed to obtain smile variables. Dental casts and panoramic radiographs were evaluated to ascertain the cast-radiograph evaluation (CRE) index. Univariate and bivariate analyses were conducted at a significance level of 0.05. Results The study evaluated 24 men and 24 women, with an average age of 20.10 ± 6.78 years. Fifty percent of the patients did not undergo extractions, and the average CRE index for the sample was 34.83 ± 9.01. Regarding the smile, a medium smile line was prevalent in 66.7% of cases, and a non-consonant smile arc was observed in 58.3%. Significant differences in the smile arc were found between patients with and without extractions (p=0.019). Right and left buccal corridors measured 2.52 mm ± 1.52 and 2.43 mm ± 1.37, respectively. The upper dental midline deviated by 0.80 ± 0.91 mm and had an angulation of 1.65 ± 2.05º. Both variables showed significant differences between Class I and Class II patients (p=0.020; p=0.027). Symmetrical smiles were also observed (1.05 ± 0.17). Conclusions Based on our findings, clinicians should focus on the smile arc in patients who have not undergone extractions and on the midline inclination in Class II patients. These appear to be the most common areas for improvement in patients who are in the finishing phase of treatment. Additionally, considerable variability exists in the smile characteristics of patients still undergoing orthodontic treatment, leaving room for further enhancement of results.