What proportion should the art portion of the dental model be relative to the overall size?

The art portion of a dental model is typically recommended to be one-third of the overall size of the model. This proportion ensures that the model accurately represents the dental anatomy while allowing adequate space for the supporting base. A one-third proportion balances aesthetic presentation and functional characteristics, which is essential in dental practice, particularly when it comes to patient education and the demonstration of dental procedures.

In contrast, a one-half proportion would allocate too much space to the art portion, potentially undermining the model's functionality. One-fourth might provide insufficient detail regarding the surrounding structures, while one-sixth would not provide enough surface area for the representation of crucial anatomical features. Thus, one-third is the ideal compromise that serves both the practical and artistic needs of dental models.