Influence of facial index, facial profile, lip size, and angulations of teeth on gingival characteristics of anterior teeth: A gender-based evaluation.

OBJECTIVE

A prime component in an esthetic and pleasing appearance of face is the proportionate presence of different compositions of the face. The present study aimed to evaluate the association between facial index, facial form, lip size, and angulation of anterior teeth with periodontal phenotype in males and females.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 100 consecutive periodontally healthy orthodontic patients equally divided based on gender in two groups. The facial parameters including the Facial index (FI), lip size, and Gingival thickness (GT) for maxillary and mandibular incisors were measured using a digital vernier calliper. Maxillary and mandibular incisors inclination was measured using cephalometric analysis.

RESULTS

Significant differences were observed among both the genders in terms of FI and facial forms, upper lip size, and angulations of mandibular anterior teeth and the periodontal phenotype. The GT was found to be strongly associated with the FI and mandibular anterior teeth angulation.

CONCLUSION

The FI, and teeth inclinations are associated with the GT and shows sexual dimorphism. The evaluation of the periodontal phenotype and anthropometric parameters is essential during diagnosis and treatment planning for potential orthodontic patients and prediction of its influence on the periodontal tissues.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The gingival thickness varies with the facial index, facial form, teeth inclination, and lip size and thereby can be used to predict the pros and cons of orthodontic treatment and the need for prior periodontal therapy.