A one-sided smile can be caused by several factors, most commonly Bell's palsy. This condition results in sudden weakness of facial muscles on one side, causing a noticeable droop and making it difficult to smile symmetrically. The Mayo Clinic and other sources describe Bell's palsy as a temporary condition, with symptoms improving over weeks. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bells-palsy/symptoms-causes/syc-20370028
However, a lopsided smile isn't always a sign of Bell's palsy. Other potential causes include:
- Nerve damage: Injury or damage to the facial nerves can affect muscle control on one side of the face.
- Structural issues: Underlying conditions affecting the mouth's structure, like craniofacial microsomia (a congenital condition affecting facial development), can contribute to an uneven smile. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/Cleft-Craniofacial/Pages/Children-with-Facial-Asymmetry.aspx
- Dental problems: Misaligned teeth or jaw problems can influence how one side of the mouth moves during a smile.
While most people don't have perfect facial symmetry, a noticeably uneven smile warrants a visit to a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. This will help determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate interventions, such as physical therapy or medical treatment depending on the diagnosis. Several sources mention the possibility of Botox injections and physiotherapy for correcting lopsided smiles. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/facial-droop
