IADR Abstract Archives

The Golden Ratio and the Human Face

Objectives: The Golden Ratio (GR) is a phenomenon found throughout nature in many biologic systems. It has been used in designs for centuries. The ratio is 1:1.618… Ricketts reports the application of the GR to the facial components of ten professional female models; however, criticism was expressed, suggesting the lack of scientific methodology employed. The aim of this study was to establish whether these proportions exist within the human face. Additionally a possible GR of the four senses in the human face was investigated.

Methods: Lateral profile photographs in the natural head position of 75 Caucasian senior dental students (33 female, and 42 male) were used in this study. CorelDraw was used to digitise the facial landmarks: the lateral canthus of the eye, external nare and Pronasale of the nose, stomion for the mouth, gnathion for the chin, tragus for the ear. A new ratio between landmarks representing the senses was based on linear measurements. The distances for the vertical ratios: eye-nose-chin (I), eye-mouth-chin (II), eye-nose-mouth (III), horizontal ratio: ear-eye-nose (IV) and senses (ear-nose:eye-mouth) (V) were measured. Statistical analysis was performed comparing values to the GR of 1:1.618.. The various ratios were deemed to be either Golden (G+) or not (G-).

Results: For Ratio I F was G+, but M was G-. For Ratios II, III and IV both genders were G+. The best results for both genders were obtained for ratio V. Sexual dimorphism was found in ratios I, and IV.

Conclusions: This study confirms the existence of the Golden Ratio within the human face, and broadly supports Ricketts’ findings. Its application, however, is very subtle and should be viewed in broad terms. The Golden Senses Cross is presumed to be original.


South African Division
2004 South African Division (Pretoria, South Africa)
Pretoria, South Africa
2004
0
Scientific Groups
  • Zietsman, Salomon Theodorus  ( University of Pretoria, Pretoria, N/A, South Africa )
  • Mistry, Dharmesh  ( University of Pretoria, Pretoria, N/A, South Africa )
  • Becker, Piet J  ( SAMRC, , N/A, South Africa )
    • Oral Session
    Orthodontics