Self-perceived dental esthetics and the relationship to maxillary anterior tooth proportions among dental students.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to analyze the relationship between self-perceived dental esthetics and the selected esthetic mathematical proportions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 48 dental students who fit into the inclusion criteria. The subjects rated their self-perceived dental esthetics based on the given Likert scale. Standardized portrait photographs of each subject were taken and the mesiodistal measurements of the maxillary anterior teeth were measured using a graphic editing software. The golden proportion, golden percentage and RED proportion in maxillary anterior teeth were then calculated.

RESULTS

Most subjects were pleased with the size, form, and color of their maxillary anterior teeth. Only 2.1% of the maxillary canines and 10.4% of the left maxillary lateral incisors complied with the golden proportion. The maxillary lateral incisors demonstrated its occurrence to golden percentage. For the RED proportion, 29.2% of the left maxillary teeth and 16.7% of the contralateral teeth complied with the proportion. Self-perceived dental esthetics and the occurrence these mathematical proportions have no association.

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of the study, it can be concluded that most subjects were satisfied with their self-perceived dental esthetics. Only a small percentage of the subjects having their natural dentition coincide with the golden proportion, golden percentage and RED proportion with a higher percentage occurring on the RED proportion. Hence, the mathematical proportions do not represent the naturally occurring dentition. These mathematical proportions can serve as a guide and the perceived teeth width can be customized accordingly.