Dimples in babies. (Photo: Mykidsite)
In 1923, Evangeline I Gilbert filed a patent for a dimple manufacturing device . The device is basically a metal strap with two knobs that leave a hollow in the wearer's cheek.
Although the discovery is unlikely to have a lasting effect, its existence proves that many people consider dimples to be an attractive feature. This was quoted from the Mental Floss page , Tuesday (20/20/2020).
The main theory behind this charming anomaly involves the zygomaticus major, a muscle that extends from the cheekbone to the corner of your mouth and lifts that corner when you smile.
In humans without dimples, zygomaticus major is one continuous band. But in some people who dimmed their cheeks, the researchers found that there was a branching muscle near the mouth. When they smile a dimple appears in place of the zygomaticus major double or the bifid that split open.
But researchers also haven't confirmed zygomaticus causes all dimples. It is also possible that other facial muscle variations can affect the formation of dimples.
How a person has unusual facial muscles and forms dimples is also still unanswered. Parents who have dimples are more likely that their child will also have dimples.
Researchers agree that genetics is key. People used to think that dimples were a dominant trait inherited from their parents. However, this is not always the case.
Today, as Healtline reports , dimples are referred to as an irregular dominant trait. This means that there are some exceptions to the rule. So, dimples are not only caused by zygomaticus, but genes are also involved.
Anjasman Situmorang, Journalist