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Mathematical Tooth Proportions: A Systematic Review

Now online in the Journal of Prosthodontics, a new systematic review from ACP members, Drs. Mohammed A. Akl, Keith Mays, and Alvin G. Wee. This review was done to evaluate and compare three commonly used mathematical proportions (the golden proportion, golden percentage, and Recurring Esthetic Dental proportion) to identify which, if any, can be used to provide predictable and repeatable esthetic clinical outcomes.

The increase in demand for highly esthetic functional dentistry has increased interest in identifying a mathematical formula or proportion that would allow clinicians to predictably provide satisfying esthetic outcomes.

For this review, articles dating from Jan 1, 1973, to Jan 1, 2020 were searched, and from a total of 1,031 articles, 54 were included in the analysis. No randomized clinical trials were found and most of the available literature was based on cross-sectional and retrospective studies that looked at these proportions in different populations.

Tooth proportions varied substantially between different populations, geographic locations, age groups and genders. No studies supported the use of mathematical formulas to provide consistent results that would allow for their use as a standardized guide for esthetically pleasing smiles. Esthetic ideals are open to interpretation by both the clinician and the patient.

To access full-text Journal articles, please login to the ACP website and connect to the Journal here. 

Akl MA, Mansour DE, Mays K, Wee AG. Mathematical tooth proportions: a systematic review. J Prosthodont 2021. https://doi.org/10.1111/jopr.13420

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