Braces are a common form of orthodontic treatment, used to fix misaligned teeth and jaws. They’re great for your oral health and can also improve the appearance of your smile.
But many people wonder, “Does getting braces change your face shape?” It’s a valid question! After all, braces shift the position of your teeth and jaw over time.
The short answer is that braces can change your face shape, but the extent of the change varies from person to person. For most people, the changes are positive. But your individual facial structure and the type of orthodontic treatment you receive will play a role.
In this article, we’ll dive into how braces work, the potential ways they can alter your facial appearance, and why it’s essential to seek guidance from a qualified orthodontist.
How do braces actually work?
Braces gently push against your teeth. This constant pressure slowly moves them into the correct position.
Each tooth is connected to your jawbone by something called the periodontal ligament (PDL). The PDL lets your teeth move during orthodontic treatment.
The pressure from braces kickstarts a process called bone remodeling. On the side of the tooth that’s being pushed towards, bone is broken down (resorption). On the opposite side, new bone is formed (deposition). This allows the tooth to move and then stay in its new spot.
It takes time for the new bone structure to fully stabilize. It can take up to a year after your braces come off for everything to settle into place.
Can Braces Change Your Face Shape? Exploring the Potential Transformations
Braces can do more than just straighten your teeth. They can also affect your jawline, your cheeks, and even your lips.
Do braces improve your jawline?
Braces can help define your jawline. By aligning your teeth and jaws, braces can give you a slimmer, more balanced facial appearance.
If you have an overbite, your lower jaw may look undefined, and your chin may appear weak. Correcting the overbite with braces can improve the projection and definition of your lower jaw.
On the other hand, an underbite can make your lower jaw look like it’s sticking out. Braces can bring your lower jaw into a more pleasing position.
Can braces change your cheekbones?
Braces won’t directly affect the height of your cheekbones. However, if your cheeks are sunken, that can create the illusion of higher cheekbones.
By improving the overall balance of your facial features, orthodontic treatment can indirectly affect how full your cheeks look.
Does orthodontic treatment change your lips or mouth shape?
The position of your teeth can affect how your lips project and how much support they have. Braces can correct severely protruded teeth, which in turn can reduce how prominent your lips look.
Misaligned teeth can also cause your lips to be asymmetrical. Braces can help you achieve a more symmetrical and balanced lip appearance.
Can my smile change after braces?
Braces can widen your dental arch, creating a broader, fuller smile. Straightening your teeth with braces can also improve the aesthetics of your smile and boost your confidence.
Crooked or tilted teeth can make your smile look asymmetrical. Braces can correct these issues, resulting in a more symmetrical smile.
Before and After Braces: Transformations by Case Type
The changes that braces can make to your face depend on the type of malocclusion being corrected. Here are some common examples:
Overbite Correction
With an overbite, the upper teeth protrude too far beyond the lower teeth. Correcting an overbite with braces can bring the chin forward and improve the definition of the jawline, creating a more balanced facial profile.
Underbite Correction
With an underbite, the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth. Braces can reduce the prominence of the lower jaw and improve lip closure, making it easier to comfortably close your lips.
Crowded, Crooked Teeth
When teeth are crowded or crooked, it can affect the overall symmetry of the face. Straightening the teeth with braces can improve the aesthetics of the smile, provide better support for the lips, and create a more harmonious facial appearance.
Gaps Between Teeth
Closing gaps between teeth with braces not only enhances the smile but can also provide better support for the lips, leading to a fuller and more youthful appearance.
Open Bite Correction
An open bite is when the front teeth don’t meet when the mouth is closed. Correcting an open bite with orthodontics can improve lip closure and make chewing easier, leading to subtle but noticeable improvements in facial appearance.
What affects how much braces change your face?
Braces can change anyone’s face shape, but some people may notice bigger changes than others. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Age. Younger patients are still growing, so braces may have a more noticeable effect. However, adults can also see improvements in their facial appearance after orthodontic treatment.
- Starting point. Your facial features before braces will influence the final result.
- Orthodontic issues. The type and severity of your alignment issues will affect the extent of facial changes.
- Orthodontist’s skill. An experienced orthodontist can develop a treatment plan that maximizes both dental and facial aesthetics.
How Improper Orthodontic Treatment Can Affect Your Face
While braces can be a great way to improve your smile, poorly executed treatment can have some unwanted side effects. If your orthodontist isn’t careful, you might end up with sunken cheeks, shifted midlines, or an asymmetrical face. These issues can be subtle or very noticeable, depending on the extent of the problem.
That’s why choosing a qualified orthodontist is so important. Experienced professionals are more likely to minimize the risk of adverse outcomes. They can also help you avoid tooth pain, sensitivity, and injuries to the soft tissues in your mouth.
Are braces right for me?
The best way to know if braces are a good fit for you is to talk with a dentist or orthodontist. They can assess your teeth and jaw, discuss your goals, and help you decide on the right treatment.
When considering braces, remember it’s not just about looks. Braces can also improve your dental health, helping you chew properly and keep your teeth clean.
You have several types of braces to choose from, including:
- Traditional metal braces
- Ceramic braces
- Lingual braces (behind the teeth)
- Invisalign aligners
A professional can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option.
Summary
So, can braces change your face shape? Yes, they can, but the extent of the changes will vary from person to person. Often, those changes are positive, improving both your bite and the overall appearance of your face.
That’s why it’s so important to seek guidance from a skilled orthodontist. They can create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals, helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
Remember, braces aren’t just about aesthetics. They can also significantly improve your oral health, making it easier to speak clearly and maintain good oral hygiene.
If you’re considering braces, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with a qualified orthodontist. They can assess your situation and help you explore your options for a healthier, more confident smile.