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Smile Esthetics and Vertical Dimension: An Update
Title:
Abstract:
Smile esthetics is considered as the main obj ective to fulfill during our orthodontic
treatment. In handling our patient’s list of problems, we ask frequently ourselves:

Do we have to co nsider the incisor position ONLY in the sagittal plane or more
and more in the vertical?

Should we have to apply a SYSTEMIZED treat ment approach or must we
INDIVIDUALIZE our treatment planning?
Our orthodontic philosophy has to consider the initial vertica l position of upper and
lower incisors at rest and during smiling in order to set up indi vidualiz ed treat ment
obj ectives and to attain the best final esthetic result. Therefore, we have to appl y
individuali zed
mechanics
depending
on
facial
growth
patter n,
occlusal
plane
inclination and smile l ine position.
Author:
Joseph Bouserhal, DDS, MDS, DURCO, DUOLG, DUIT
Joseph Bouserhal is Professor in the Department of Orthodonti cs at Saint -Joseph
Uni versity and maint ains a private orthodontic practice in Beir ut. He is Research
Associate at the University of Toulouse, France , member of the Angle -East Societ y
of Orthodontists, member of the Executi ve Committee of the World Federation of
Orthodontists and Fel low of the Tweed Foundation for Orthodontic Research and
Education.