What is the average lip mobility in a full smile?

The average lip mobility in a full smile is typically measured to be between 6-8 mm. This range is significant because it provides insight into the dynamics of facial expressions and the functional aspects of the lips in relation to aesthetic dental procedures. Understanding lip mobility helps dental professionals evaluate the effects of treatments on smile aesthetics.

A lip mobility of 6-8 mm allows for adequate coverage of the teeth during a full smile while enabling an expressive range. This is especially important in cosmetic dentistry, as lip position can greatly influence the visual perception of the smile, impacting the overall outcome of treatments such as veneers, crowns, or orthodontics.

In contrast, other ranges such as 2-4 mm reflect limited mobility, which is not typically observed in a full smile, while higher ranges, such as 10-12 mm or 14-16 mm, would suggest exaggerated lip movement that is not representative of an average person's lip range during a natural smile. Therefore, understanding the average mobility informs clinicians when designing treatment plans that result in both functional and aesthetic success.