Evaluation of different esthetic smile criteria.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the existence of different esthetic smile criteria as determined on the smiles of celebrities, which were considered by lay people to be beautiful.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An Internet search for "best smile" and "female celebrities" in the years 2007 and 2008 identified 50 celebrities who were voted to have beautiful smiles. Another search was made for images of these celebrities that showed the entire face with an open smile. The images were analyzed using Digimizer image analysis software for different esthetic smile criteria.

RESULTS

Eighty percent of the sample was classified as having an average upper lip position, 62% showed upward upper lip curvature, and 78% had a parallel smile line. Forty-two percent of the images showed the maxillary anterior teeth not touching the lower lip, while 34% were touching, and 24% slightly covered it. Sixty percent displayed up to the second premolar, and 32% displayed up to the first molar when smiling. Midline deviation was detected in 36% of the sample. Diastema and golden proportion were not seen in any of the subjects.

CONCLUSION

Female celebrities voted to have the best smile by lay people showed most of the esthetic smile criteria with slight variations, except for the golden proportion. The opinions and perceptions of lay people about beauty should be studied and evaluated.