The approach to an attractive smile in dentistry : examination of changes in the distance around the mouth

概要

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Recently, interests in health and oral health have been increasing both individuals and society. We evaluated changes in the distance between ten reference points around the mouth during smiling to analyze the face. Twentyfive young Japanese adults (10 women, 15 men; Mean±S.D. 21.0±1.9) were participated. Digital facial images for 7 patterns (normal face, 4 types of smiles, and the pronunciation of "E" and "E-" sounds) were acquired using a digital camera. The distances between the points were measured using Photoshop CS4 (Adobe Systems, Japan). When the subjects were smiling, the distance between the labial commissures increased, and upper lip width and the distance between nasion and cheilion (Na-Ch) decreased compared with the normal face. However, the lower lip width and the distance between nasion and gonion (Na-Go) did not change. As the method to analyze the change of face, to measure the relative difference between reference points on the normal face and variation of smiles or the pronunciation of "E" using captured static photos was found be useful. These findings suggest that the upper lip, which is located near the greater zygomatic muscle, is affected more strongly than the lower lip by the action of this muscle. Based on these results, it was suggested that the patient pronouncing "E" may simulate an attractive smile.