Can Braces Change Face Shape?

Yes, braces can change face shape.

How Braces Affect Facial Structure

Braces are an orthodontic treatment primarily used to correct misaligned teeth. However, they can also influence the positioning and form of skeletal features, like your jaw. According to the reference (Note: this is a placeholder for a link), this means that orthodontic treatment can ultimately result in a slight change to your facial shape.

Key Ways Braces Impact Facial Appearance:

• Jaw Alignment: Braces can correct jaw misalignment, which directly impacts how the face looks. For example, an overbite or underbite correction can significantly change the profile.
• Cheekbone Definition: By improving jaw alignment and dental arch, braces can sometimes make cheekbones more prominent or defined.
• Overall Symmetry: Braces can help in achieving facial symmetry by correcting dental and jaw discrepancies, which can lead to a more balanced appearance.
• Soft Tissue Changes: While braces primarily work on bone and teeth, soft tissues around the mouth and face can adapt and change slightly as a result.
• Profile Changes: The most noticeable change may occur in your profile as teeth and jaw positioning affect the projection of the chin and lips.

Understanding the Extent of Change

The change is generally subtle. While braces can indeed impact facial features, these modifications are usually not dramatic. The degree of change will depend on factors such as:

• The Severity of the Original Malocclusion: More significant alignment problems are likely to result in more noticeable changes.
• The Individual's Facial Structure: Everyone’s bone structure is different, which affects the extent of any changes.
• Treatment Plan: Different types of orthodontic treatments will have varying impacts on facial form.
• Age of the Patient: Facial changes may be more pronounced in younger patients whose bones are still developing.

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