ASSESSMENT OF SMILE AESTHETIC SATISFACTION AND RELATED SMILE CHARACTERISTICS IN KNOWN POPULATION

Abstract

Background: Smile aesthetics play an important role in facial attractiveness, self-confidence and social interactions. Various dental and soft-tissue characteristics, including smile symmetry, smile arc and gingival display, influence an individual's perception of smile attractiveness. Assessment of these parameters is essential for understanding patient satisfaction and planning aesthetic dental treatment. Materials and Methods: The present observational cross-sectional study was conducted among 30 individuals aged 18–35 years. Standardized extraoral photographs were obtained during posed smiling to evaluate maxillary anterior teeth display, gingival display, smile arc, buccal corridor and smile symmetry. Smile aesthetic satisfaction was assessed using a structured five-point Likert scale. The collected data were analysed using descriptive statistics, independent-sample t-test and chi-square test, wherever appropriate. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Among the 30 participants, 16 (53.3%) were females and 14 (46.7%) were males. Overall, 20 (66.7%) participants reported satisfaction or high satisfaction with their smiles, whereas 4 (13.3%) expressed dissatisfaction. A symmetrical smile was observed in 22 (73.3%) participants, while an average smile arc was present in 19 (63.3%). Normal gingival display was observed in 24 (80%) participants. Significant associations were observed between smile symmetry and aesthetic satisfaction (p=0.004), smile arc and aesthetic satisfaction (p=0.018), and gingival display and aesthetic satisfaction (p=0.006). Conclusion: Smile aesthetic satisfaction was significantly associated with smile symmetry, smile arc and gingival display. Assessment of these characteristics may help clinicians develop individualized treatment approaches to improve smile aesthetics and patient satisfaction.