When you think about braces, the first thing that likely comes to mind is straightening teeth. While it’s true that braces are highly effective at correcting misaligned teeth and bites, many people are surprised to learn that orthodontic treatment can also influence the shape of your face.

This often-overlooked benefit of braces is one of the reasons they’re such a transformative solution.

At Torbay Smiles Dentistry, we believe in providing our patients with a comprehensive understanding of how braces work and the benefits they offer. In this blog post, we’ll explore whether braces can change your face shape (spoiler: they can!) and how it happens.

Understanding How Braces Work

Braces work by applying consistent pressure to your teeth, gradually shifting them into their proper positions. This movement doesn’t just affect your teeth, but it also impacts the surrounding bone and tissues. Over time, braces can correct alignment issues, improve bite function, and enhance the overall structure of your jaw and face.

Your teeth and jaw are connected to a network of bones, muscles, and ligaments. When teeth are repositioned, these structures adjust to support the new alignment. Depending on the type of orthodontic issue being corrected, these changes can subtly influence the shape and symmetry of your face.

How Braces Can Change Your Face Shape

The extent to which braces can alter your face shape depends on the specific orthodontic issue being addressed. Here are a few common scenarios where braces can have an impact:

• Overbites: An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth extend too far over the lower teeth. This can create the appearance of a protruding upper lip or a receding chin. Braces can correct an overbite by repositioning the teeth and jaw, resulting in a more balanced facial profile.
• Underbites: An underbite happens when the lower teeth extend beyond the upper teeth, giving the chin a prominent or protruding appearance. Braces can help shift the lower jaw back into proper alignment, softening the overall facial structure and creating a more harmonious appearance.
• Crossbites and Open Bites: Crossbites and open bites can create asymmetry in the face and may affect the way your lips and cheeks rest. By correcting these issues, braces can enhance facial balance and improve the overall shape of your jaw.
• Crowded or Gapped Teeth: Severely crowded or gapped teeth can impact the width and symmetry of your smile. Braces can close gaps or create space for crowded teeth, resulting in a more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing facial structure.
• Jaw Alignment Issues: When the jaw is misaligned, it can lead to an uneven facial appearance. Braces, sometimes in combination with other orthodontic treatments, can realign the jaw and improve the symmetry of your face.

Subtle Yet Significant Changes

While braces can influence your face shape, it’s important to note that the changes are usually subtle and natural-looking. The goal of orthodontic treatment isn’t to drastically alter your appearance but to enhance your facial symmetry and balance while improving the function and health of your teeth and jaw.

For many patients, these subtle changes lead to a more confident, harmonious appearance. Your improved smile, combined with a balanced facial structure, can make a significant difference in how you feel about your overall look.

Age and Braces: Does Timing Matter?

The timing of orthodontic treatment can influence the extent of facial changes. Children and teenagers often experience more pronounced changes because their facial bones are still growing and developing. This allows braces to guide the growth of the jaw and teeth more effectively, leading to optimal results.

Adults can also benefit from braces, though the changes may be less dramatic because their facial bones have already matured. However, adult braces are still highly effective at improving alignment, enhancing facial symmetry, and achieving a beautiful smile.

Dental Braces at Torbay Smiles Dentistry

Braces do much more than straighten teeth! They can also subtly enhance the shape and symmetry of your face, creating a more balanced and confident appearance. Whether you’re dealing with an overbite, underbite, or crowding, orthodontic treatment can address these issues and improve both your smile and overall facial harmony.

At Torbay Smiles Dentistry, we’re here to guide you on your orthodontic journey with personalized care and expert treatment. If you’re curious about how braces can transform your smile and enhance your facial structure, book an appointment with us today!