Abstract

Background/purpose

The labiomental angle plays a critical role in determining facial profile attractiveness, with aesthetic preferences influenced by ethnic background. This study investigated how variations in the labiomental angle influenced facial profile aesthetics and examined changes in dental students’ understanding of facial aesthetics before and after orthodontic lectures.

Materials and methods

One adult Taiwanese male and one adult Caucasian male were selected. Three-dimensional facial images were captured using a facial scanner and digitally modified to create labiomental angles ranging from 117° to 152° at 5° intervals. A total of 16 image sets, each consisting of five static images and one video, were generated. Eighty-eight dental students evaluated the images before and after orthodontic education. Attractiveness was assessed using a visual analogue scale, while acceptance was rated on a 3-point Likert scale.

Results

Before the lectures, the most aesthetically preferred labiomental angle was 132° in Taiwanese males and 122° in Caucasian males. After the lectures, preferences shifted to 137° for the Caucasian male, while the Taiwanese male's preference remained at 132°. Acceptance ratings followed a similar trend, with the most accepted angle shifting from 122° to 127° for the Caucasian male, while remaining at 132° for the Taiwanese male. Dental students demonstrated a statistically significant difference in their preferences for the labiomental angle when comparing Taiwanese and Caucasian males.

Conclusion

Labiomental angle preferences vary by cultural background. Orthodontic lectures can alter dental students’ aesthetic preferences for Caucasian male profiles but have minimal impact on preferences for Taiwanese male profiles.

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