Facial aesthetics is shaped not only by genetic predispositions but also by the cultural norms and values

Abstract

The positioning of teeth is of significant importance, both in terms of function and aesthetics. Aesthetics is a subjective matter, and there is often a discrepancy between the perceptions of patients and those of medical professionals. The act of wearing a mask has been demonstrated to impair the ability to evaluate facial attractiveness, thereby reaffirming the visual importance of the oral cavity in the context of facial aesthetics. The notion that a face perceived as beautiful is inherently exceptional is a fallacy. An average face is defined as one that exhibits characteristics that are common to the group. However, cultural mutations occur at a faster rate than genetic mutations. With regard to changes in facial aesthetics, cultural differences have a more immediate effect than genetic mutations. The advent of the internet meme may herald the advent of an era in which the average face that defines a beautiful face is determined by the internet.

Keywords: Orthodontics; Mask; Genetics; Culture; Average face

Core Tip: It is important to note that orofacial esthetics are subjective and often lead to discrepancies between patients and medical professionals. During the ongoing pandemic, the increased prevalence of mask-wearing has reduced our ability to evaluate facial attractiveness. The face that many people consider beautiful is the average face with genetic characteristics common to that group. As cultural transitions occur at a faster rate than genetic variation, changes in facial attractiveness are also influenced by cultural differences. It is possible that we are entering an era in which the average face that defines what is beautiful is determined by the internet.