[Study on perception of Shanghai population with labial profile]

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the perception of Shanghai population with labial profile and evaluate its effect on orthodontic treatment.

Methods: Four facial profiles with different labial convexity were drawn with computer aid on the basis of the pretty Chinese female cephalometric measurements. 650 panelists were selected from Shanghai area including 250 youth with normal profile and 200 adolescents under orthodontic treatment and their parents. Subjects were asked to rank the four facial profiles in descending order of attractiveness.

Results: The ranking was as follows: slightly straight style, standard style, straight style and slightly convex style. The normal male youth preferred more convex style than female. Patients with Class profile preferred standard style while Class and patients and the parents were fond of slightly straight style.

Conclusion: People in Shanghai area tended to prefer straight profile. The perception with labial profile has sex and age difference. It also has difference between non-orthodontic and orthodontic patients and was influenced by the profiles themselves. It was suggested that consultation between orthodontist and patient was essential and more attention should be made on the patient's perception with labial profile.