DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/9A9N-NV03
Defense Date
2009
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Orthodontics
First Advisor
Bhavna Shroff
Second Advisor
Steven Lindauer
Third Advisor
Vincent Sawicki
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine if dental aesthetics is perceived by adults to affect an individual’s ability to emerge as a leader. An electronic survey was constructed using facial frontal smiling photographs of 10 patients. Statements were formulated to evaluate four leadership characteristics: intelligence, self-confidence, friendliness, and trustworthiness. Evaluators indicated their level of agreement with each statement for each subject using a 100mm Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Data was obtained from 214 evaluators. Picture ratings were analyzed using repeated-measures mixed-model analyses. Evaluator factors and picture factors were considered when testing for crooked vs. straight teeth differences. There was a significant difference in perception of individuals with straight versus crooked teeth for the characteristics of intelligence, trustworthiness, and self-confidence. No difference found for the characteristic of friendliness. The gender and race of the evaluators influenced the rating of the subjects. Results from this study may support the importance of good smile aesthetics for adults who seek a leadership role.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
May 2009