Objective: To determine an optimal antero-posterior (AP) position of the maxillary central incisors (CI) and its relationship to the forehead in African American males. Methods: 95 smiling profile photographs were taken, evaluated by orthodontists and laypersons, and categorized in Group B, R or F. The CI position and forehead inclination (FI) were measured relative to glabella vertical (GV). Statistical analysis evaluated the relationship between CI position and FI, differences between groups, and differences between orthodontists and laypersons. Results: Optimal CI position was -2.1mm behind GV. There were no significant differences between orthodontists and laypersons. All group comparisons were significantly different, except Group B v Group R. The optimal CI position relative to GV and FI were not significantly correlated.
Conclusions: The AP position of the CI relative to the forehead in African American males can be evaluated to determine the optimal AP position of the CI and optimal esthetics.