Main

This study evaluated the differences in aesthetic perceptions and smile variables between extraction and non-extraction treatments for different malocclusions. Ninety participants were divided into three groups according to their pre-treatment overjet (group I, 0-4 mm; group II, >4 mm; group III, <0 mm), with 15 extraction and 15 non-extraction participants in each group. Post-treatment frontal smiling photographs were evaluated by ten orthodontists, ten general dentists and ten lay people. Nine smile variables were measured. The aesthetic scores by dental professionals were higher in extraction compared to non-extraction in group II. Lay people had no aesthetic preference regarding the type of treatment. The smile aesthetic score of group III was significantly lower than the scores for groups I and II. The arch form index, maxillary incisor show, and smile arc were greater in the extraction participants. Non-extraction and group III correlated negatively with the aesthetic score. Maxillary incisor show, tooth number display and buccal corridor ratio correlated positively with the aesthetic score.