Association between maxillary central incisor tooth form and face shape using digital AutoCAD analysis in Pakistani adults

Abstract Facial aesthetics depends on the harmony between facial features and dental morphology, specifically the link between face shape and maxillary central incisor form. Classical theories propose that tooth form corresponds to face outline; however, evidence across populations is inconsistent. With the development of digital tools, it is now feasible to analyse associations more precisely. Our study aims to evaluate the tooth form of various maxillary central incisors and their association with facial shape in males and females using AutoCAD software in a sample of the Pakistani population. The cross-sectional study was conducted in the department of Prosthodontics, Islamic International Dental College and Hospital, Islamabad, Pakistan. Two standard images of all subjects were captured: one portrait photograph with lips closed and the other of the maxillary anterior teeth with retracted lips, following standardised guidelines. All the images were analysed using AutoCAD 2020 software to create technical illustrations. Dental and facial ratios were obtained and categorised. Data analysis was performed using SPSS Version 27. The chi-square test was used to establish an association between the facial shape, tooth form and gender. Tapering tooth form was most prevalent among the subjects- females: 46(30%), males: 30(20%), followed by ovoid teeth- females: 38(25%), males: 26(17%).The least prevalent form was square-females: 7(4%); males: 6 (4%). In males, tapering faces were the most common- 38(25%), while in females, ovoid faces were the most common 45(29%) and square faces were the least common in both genders. No significant association was observed between face shape and maxillary central incisor form, indicating that the prosthodontic tooth selection should not rely solely on face form criteria.