Nivelamento dos incisivos superiores e tipo de sorriso: Uma análise associativa

Abstract

Introduction: Smile aesthetics is one of the main motivators for seeking orthodontic treatment, and professionals should understand this, including the specificities of different smile types and their relationship with incisor positioning. Objective: To assess whether there is an association between smile type and incisor alignment. Methodology: This was a quantitative-exploratory study using an associative analysis of upper incisor alignment and smile types, with a sample of 95 patients. Regarding upper incisor alignment, two categories were adopted: intruded lateral incisors in relation to central incisors and incisors at the same level. Smile types were categorized as Monalisa, Canine, and Wide. Photographs and scanned arches were analyzed. After collection, the data were grouped into a table and an associative analysis was applied using the chi-square test. Results: Of the smile types, 56.8% had a Mona Lisa smile, 40% a canine smile, and 3.2% a wide smile. There was a statistically significant association (p < 0.001) between the Mona Lisa smile and intruded lateral incisors in relation to the central incisors (68.5%), and a significant association (p < 0.001) between the canine smile and leveled incisors (81.6%). The wide smile, despite presenting a significant number of leveled incisors (66.7%), shows a weak association with it (p < 0.62). Conclusion: Regarding the association between smile types and leveling of upper incisors, there was a statistically significant correlation between the Mona Lisa smile with a step of lateral incisor intrusion and a correlation between the canine smile and leveled incisors. This finding brings an additional factor for analysis to guide the orthodontist regarding the ideal position of these teeth at the end of treatment.