Association between the smile arc and buccal corridors with the facial biotype in subjects with normocclusion

Abstract

Introduction: The correlation between the aesthetic characteristics of the smile and the facial biotype, could be useful in the design of the treatment plan. Objectives: To assess the relationship between Facial Biotype and the smile aesthetics evaluating the smile arc and the presence or absence of buccal corridors in subjects with normocclusion. Methods: From a sample of 100 subjects with normocclusion, 40 of them were randomly selected, 22 women and 18 men between 18 to 25 years, without temporomandibular joint or periodontal problems and without prior orthodontic treatment. Fontal photographs of social or posed smiles were used to determine the smile arc (consonant or not consonant) and the presence or absence of buccal corridors. Results: 82.5% of the subjects showed a brachifacial biotype, with presence of buccal corridors and a consonant smile arc. No statistically signifi cant relation was found between the facial biotype and the smile arc or with the presence or absence of buccal corridors. Conclusions: Aesthetic characteristics of the smile such as the smile arc and buccal corridors are present in subjects with normocclusion and are not affected by the facial biotype.Key words: Smile aesthetics, facial biotype.