An analysis of maxillary anterior teeth dimensions for the existence of golden proportion in the representative North Indian population

J Conserv Dent Endod. 2024 Feb;27(2):175-179. doi: 10.4103/JCDE.JCDE_235_23. Epub 2024 Feb 8.

Abstract

Context: Esthetic appearance of the face is a major concern in self-image among the majority of the population. The dimensions, anatomy, and arrangement of maxillary anterior are the key factors in the esthetic appearance of the face.

Aim: The present study aimed to measure the mesiodistal dimensions of maxillary anterior teeth and analyzing the golden proportion in the representative North Indian population.

Materials and methods: Subjects were seated in the upright position in a dental clinical chair. A digital Vernier caliper was used to record the mesiodistal dimensions of central incisors (CIs), lateral incisor (LI), and canine (C) teeth in maximum smile position. A total of three sets of recordings were made by a single observer to avoid the measurement bias of both left and right sides of teeth. Digital images were also captured. Obtained measurements were used for the calculation of ratios and statistical analysis was done.

Results: The prevalence of golden ratio between right CI/LI was observed in 3.1% males and 3.2% females. The calculated median ratio was 1.2 for males and 1.3 for females which differs significantly (P > 0.05) from the golden ratio. The divine proportion between visible portion of right C/LI was seen in 39.5% males and 32.3% females with calculated median value for males being 0.6 and that for females was 0.7.

Conclusion: The prevalence of golden proportion between the CI/LI in esthetically pleasing smiles was too small (mean-3.9 in males and 2.75 in females) while the golden ratio of 0.6 was found in the majority of the population irrespective of the gender.

Keywords: Divine proportion; esthetics; golden mean; golden proportion; golden ratio.