Researcher Reem Abdullah Al-Rajwi was awarded a Master’s Degree in Fixed Prosthodontics for her thesis titled: Evaluation of Smile Aesthetic Parameters Using Digital Photography among a Sample of Yemeni Young Adults and Investigating Gender Differences,” which was submitted to the Faculty of Dentistry – Sana’a University. The MA defense was held on Thursday, October 15, 2026.
The MA Viva-voce Committee, which was formed based on a resolution issued by the Graduate Studies and Scientific Research Council, consisted of the following:
·Assoc. Prof. Mohsen Ali Al-Hamzi – Sana’a University – Internal Examiner and Chair
·Prof. Abdulwahab Al-Khawlani – Sana’a University – Main Supervisor and Committee Member
·Assoc. Prof. Mohammed Ahmed Dubais – University of Science and Technology – External Examiner and Committee Member.
The study aimed to evaluate a range of smile aesthetic parameters among a sample of Yemeni young adults using digital photography and identify potential differences between males and females. It sought to improve understanding of the aesthetic harmony between the teeth, lips, and surrounding tissues and to inform the planning of cosmetic, restorative, and prosthetic dental treatments.
The researcher used standardized digital photographs taken with a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera under controlled photographic conditions to assess smile aesthetics both at rest and during a posed smile. The parameters examined included smile arc, gingival display, the number of visible teeth, lip line, and maxillary incisor display. Adobe Photoshop and Exocad software were used to perform the required measurements.
The study findings showed that a consonant smile arc was among the most common patterns observed among participants, alongside various characteristics relating to gingival and dental display and lip line.
The study also found a statistically significant difference between males and females in smile-arc patterns, while no statistically significant gender differences were identified in the other smile aesthetic parameters examined.
The study highlighted the value of the reference data it provides for understanding smile characteristics among the Yemeni young adults included in the sample. These findings may help inform the planning of cosmetic, restorative, and prosthetic dental treatments.
The thesis defense was attended by faculty members, researchers, students, and interested participants as well as the researcher's colleagues and family members.