COMPARISON OF CHIN ESTHETIC LINE VALUES BETWEEN ACCEPTABLE AND NON-ACCEPTABLE ESTHETIC PROFILES USING A 3D CAMERA FACIAL SCAN SYSTEM

Abstract

Facial esthetics is a key component in orthodontic and maxillofacial treatment planning. The position of the lips relative to the Esthetic Line (E-line) significantly influences facial harmony. Three-dimensional (3D) imaging provides improved accuracy in evaluating soft tissue contours compared to traditional two-dimensional (2D) methods. However, limited data exist on lip-to-E-line values in individuals with varying esthetic profiles using 3D camera facial scans system. Objective: To establish normative values for upper and lower lip-to-E-line distances using a 3D camera facial scan system in individuals compared acceptable to non-acceptable facial esthetic profiles. Methods: A total of 158 participants (100 acceptable, 58 non-acceptable) were evaluated based on silhouette images from 3D scans. Participants scoring ≥ 3 out of 5 by expert panel assessment were classified as having acceptable esthetic profiles. Measurements of upper and lower lip distances to the E-line were recorded and analyzed using independent t-tests. Results: In males, the acceptable group showed significantly more retruded upper (-1.57 ± 1.88 mm) and lower lips (-0.02 ± 1.70 mm) compared to the non-acceptable group (-0.41 ± 2.49 mm and 2.20 ± 2.42 mm; p < 0.001). In females, similar differences were observed for the upper (-1.02 ± 1.98 mm vs. 0.51 ± 1.80 mm) and lower lips (0.26 ± 1.94 mm vs. 2.24 ± 2.35 mm; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Esthetically acceptable profiles are associated with more retruded lip positions relative to the E-line. These 3D-derived values may support improved clinical assessment and treatment planning in orthodontics and facial surgery based on 3D camera facial scan system.

Keywords: 3D Facial Scan, Esthetic Line, Soft Tissue Chin, Facial Esthetics