The integumental profile

Modern orthodontics implies not only occlusal excellence, but also the positioning of teeth to produce optimal facial harmony for the individual patient. The soft-tissue veneer covering the teeth and bone varies so greatly that study of the dentoskeletal pattern may be inadequate in evaluating facial disharmony. A method of direct integumental analysis is presented, employing angular readings that describe profile components to the skull as a whole (inclination angles) and to each other (contour angles). These readings are made from oriented lateral headplates exposed to show both hard- and soft-tissue detail. The average morphology and variation of acceptable profiles are described, based on the Herron sample (a group of good faces picked by a panel of artists). The hypothesis is explored that average inclination, contour, and proportion is related to profile excellence. Graphic comparison to the Herron sample by use of the integumental profile grid expedites the analysis of malocclusion deformity and the study of soft-tissue changes occurring during growth and treatment.