AIM: the present study appraised the numerical characteristics of the facial profile. METHODS: it was evaluated a sample of 50 individuals, 32 men and 18 women, between 18 and 36 years old, Brazilian, Caucasian, non-orthodontically treated, carrying an adequate muscular facial balance, showed by a passive lip sealment. Facial morphologic analysis of the profile detected 41% with Pattern II and 9% with Pattern III relationship between maxilla and mandible. Numeric facial analysis of the profile was performed in all photographs. One-way ANOVA test and Tukey's Pairwise comparison test were done to compare the results obtained with those of Pattern I patients, used as control group. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: there were no statistical differences among Patterns I, II and III for nasolabial angle, mentolabial fold angle and the proportion between medium and lower facial heights. Interlabial angle was more obtuse in Pattern III group. This Pattern showed lower facial convexity and proportion of the lower third of the face. The angle of the lower third of the face, which measures mandibular protrusion was more obtuse in Pattern II group.
Orthodontic diagnosis; Facial analysis; Photometry
