Assessing the AP Position of Maxillary Central Incisor using Forehead: A Smiling Profile Photographic Study

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate and compare the anteroposterior position of permanent maxillary central incisor in profile in relation to the forehead inclination and prominence in adult (18-25 years) females of Maharashtra population. Materials and methods: The control sample ( N = 100) consisted of adult females (18-25 years of age) with optimum facial balance showing a pleasing profile compared with study sample (100 adult female patients of 18-25 years) seeking orthodontic treatment. All smiling profile images had the maxillary central incisors and the forehead in full view. The images were adjusted and rotated to the upright head position. Reference lines were drawn to measure the anteroposterior positions of the maxillary central incisors as well as forehead inclinations. Results: Strong correlation exists between positions of maxillary central incisor relative to forehead inclination in control group. In study group it is insignificant. It means that if position of maxillary central incisor relative to ‘forehead’s facial axis (FFA) point’ changes the forehead inclination also changes. The most esthetic maxillary central incisor position between FFA point and glabella was highest in the control sample (94%). Conclusion: The forehead is a useful landmark for assessing the facial profile for adult Maharashtra females as it relates to A-P maxillary central incisor position. Smiling profile photograph can be useful additional diagnostic tool for determining esthetic position of maxillary central incisors in the face.