Evaluation and correlation between facial index and modified smile index in patients with class I malocclusion after orthodontic treatment

Abstract

Introduction: Facial aesthetics has evolved from simple microaesthetics to macroaesthetics of the face and today, it is a major component of modern orthodontic treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate facial index and modified smile index in patients with Class I malocclusion after orthodontic treatment and to determine the correlation between them. Material and Methods: The sample consisted of a total of 16 patients (4 males and 12 females) in the age group of 16-35 years. Posed smile photographs were made with a Nikon Z6 II 24.5 MP digital camera (Nikon Corporation) with a NIKKOR Z 85 mm f/1.8 lens and a Godox AD200 flash. Olympus cellSens Standard software (2011 Olympus Corporation) was used to measure the characteristics needed to determine the facial index and modified smile index. Results: Descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) were calculated for each variable. Student's t-test showed that there was a non-significant statistical difference p < .05 between two genders for modified smile index and facial index. Pearson correlation indicated that there was a non-significant medium positive relationship between modified smile index and facial index in patients with Class I malocclusion after orthodontic treatment. Conclusion: Knowing the correlation between facial aesthetics and smile aesthetics is a necessary tool for achieving successful orthodontic treatment. Further research is required to define the correlation between these variables and to advance the knowledge about this connection.