Perception of facial profile attractiveness by orthodontists and general public in Dakshina Kannada population.

Background and objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess and determine the perception of facial profile attractiveness by orthodontists and general public using Silhouette method. In addition, the orthodontists and the general public (laypeople) compared the facial profile components that they considered desirable for malesand females Methodology: 30 Subjects in the age group of 18-25 years who met all the inclusion and exclusion criteria's were selected from a local Dakshina Kannada Population. After examining each subject for his/her dental occlusion and facial profiles, profile photographs of the subjects were taken. These photographs were shown to Orthodontists and laypeople for their approval, and a subject with the most pleasing profile was selected. After the subject was selected, a lateral cephalogram was taken and various angular and linear measurements were recorded. Using the average values recorded, an androgynous facial Silhouette was constructed. These facial Silhouettes (30) were evaluated by 50 Orthodontists and 50 laymen from local population. Results: Perception differences were noted between males and females or among Orthodontists and laypeople. No statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) was reported in all series of profiles selection for most preferred and least preferred profile among Orthodontists and laypersons and between males and female profiles. Conclusions: This study showed the perception of well balanced and imbalanced faces. In some of the variables, there was a clear contrast in preference of profiles for males and females by the Orthodontists and laypeople, while in some variables it was not. A universal standard of facial aesthetic is not applicable to diverse populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]