Which landmark is the point that defines the upper lip's concave contour?

The landmark that defines the upper lip's concave contour is known as Labrale superius. This point is located at the most anterior point of the upper lip, specifically where the lip meets the maxillary gingival tissue. Its position is crucial in cephalometric analyses because it helps describe the profile and aesthetic balance of the upper lip in relation to other facial structures.

Understanding the significance of this landmark is essential in orthodontics and facial aesthetics, as it plays a vital role in evaluating lip protrusion, lip fullness, and the overall harmony of the smile. Accurate identification of Labrale superius aids in treatment planning and assessing dental and facial relationships, ultimately leading to improved outcomes in orthodontic therapy.

The other landmarks, while important in other contexts, do not specifically reflect the concave contour of the upper lip. For instance, the super labial sulcus refers to the groove above the upper lip, and the inferior labial sulcus refers to the groove below the lower lip, neither of which indicate the contour of the upper lip itself. The subnasale is a point at the junction of the nose and upper lip but does not define the curve of the lip.