What factor heavily influences the buccal corridor according to Sarver?

The choice that emphasizes the importance of the anteroposterior (AP) position of the maxilla in influencing the buccal corridor is rooted in the understanding of facial proportions and dental aesthetics. The buccal corridor refers to the space between the posterior teeth and the cheeks when a person smiles. Sarver's research illustrates that the positioning of the maxilla plays a crucial role in how wide or narrow these corridors appear.

When the maxilla is positioned more anteriorly, it can create wider buccal corridors, contributing to a more aesthetically pleasing smile. Conversely, a posteriorly positioned maxilla may lead to a narrower corridor, which can affect the overall facial balance and smile aesthetics. Thus, the AP position of the maxilla fundamentally shapes the parameters within which other dental and facial elements operate, establishing the context in which the buccal corridor is perceived.

In contrast, while maxillary tooth alignment, mandibular arch width, and facial aesthetics are relevant factors in orthodontics, they do not carry the same weight as the maxilla's position concerning the specific influence on the buccal corridor, as described by Sarver. These other factors may contribute to the overall smile but are secondary to the foundational impact of the maxilla's position