Development and validation of a new condition‐specific instrument for evaluation of smile esthetics‐related quality of life

Abstract

Smile Esthetics-Related Quality of Life questionnaire might have practical validity when applied in esthetic dental clinical procedures.

Perception of social and emotional characteristics through smile

“…The methodology used was inductive-deductive through the application of the questionnaire that presented emotional and social questions (Saltovic et al, 2018). A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to all participants in the classroom prior to their scheduled lectures.…”

“…Specifically to facial aspects, the smile is the portion responsible for the greatest attraction, with the dental elements representing the harmony of this region (Dong et al, 1999;Saltovic et al, 2018;van Cruchten et al, 2022). A smile called "pleasant" can produce an aura that expands the beauty of the face, being part of the qualities and virtues of the individual's personality.…”

Laypeople's perceptions of smile esthetics: Why is it important and what do we need to know?.

“…This would represent an important point of improvement in social contacts, self-confidence and self-awareness. 9 For this reason, it is essential to have instruments that allow us to measure these conditions in patients. Although, there are general psychometric instruments, it is known that instruments for specific conditions have more advantages since the degree of sensitivity is better, and more precise measurements can be made.…”

“…Although, there are general psychometric instruments, it is known that instruments for specific conditions have more advantages since the degree of sensitivity is better, and more precise measurements can be made. 9 In recent years, few instruments related to the aesthetics of the smile have been developed, since, their construction implies a complex process that includes psychological, methodological and statistical aspects, which are not daily competencies of the dentist. 9,10 Saltovic et al created and validated a new instrument to measure the psychosocial impacts of altered smile confirming its good stability and internal consistency, and concluding that it can have practical validity when applied in aesthetic clinical procedures.…”

“…Since, this can compromise the success of the treatment, if there is not adequate communication between the patient and the dentist regarding their expectations, the treatment plan and process, and the outcome. Saltovic et al,9 and Lajnert et al,10 found that the most significant clinical predictors of satisfaction with the aesthetics of the smile were the absence of dental crowding and the light color of the anterior teeth, followed by gingival health and adequate aspect of previous restorations.…”