There is more to orthodontics than just straightening your smile. In fact, braces (or clear aligners) can do things many patients may not even realize. Of course, they align teeth, but they also can adjust bite and improve overall dental health.
But is it possible for orthodontic treatments to do even more? How about addressing facial asymmetry? If facial asymmetry is a concern for you, let’s find out more about whether braces can make a meaningful impact.
What is Facial Asymmetry?
Facial asymmetry simply means that a feature on one side of the face does not appear the same as on the other side. While none of our features are 100% perfectly symmetrical, here, we are talking about features that are noticeably different. A facial imbalance can also refer to features that appear to be disproportionate, for example, a weak or protruding chin.
It is common to feel self-conscious about certain facial imbalances or asymmetries. Beyond the world of cosmetic surgery, orthodontic treatments, particularly braces, can play a role in bringing a little more balance.
How Braces Can Help
As we mentioned, orthodontic treatments are about more than just correcting misaligned teeth. They play a vital role in correcting bite issues, and bite issues can lead to facial imbalances. In addition, crooked teeth can cause an asymmetrical appearance or exaggerate one.
Braces cannot correct all facial asymmetries, but they can often lead to noticeable improvement in facial asymmetries that occur in the lower portion of the face.
Jaw Positioning
Facial asymmetry often originates from the jaw. Misaligned jaws can make one side of the face appear fuller or more pronounced than the other. Braces can correct these jaw misalignments, gradually bringing about a balanced facial profile.
Bite Problems
Bite issues occur in cases where the upper and lower jaw are not properly aligned relative to one another. Overbites, underbites, and crossbites can significantly affect your face’s symmetry. By addressing these dental issues, braces indirectly work towards creating a more harmonious facial appearance. A bite issue can result in the appearance of a weak chin, double chin, or protruding jaw.
Crowded, Unevenly spaced, or Crooked Teeth
Crowded teeth, particularly if the crowding is asymmetrical (which it almost always is), can contribute to an asymmetrical appearance around the mouth. Similarly, gaps in the teeth or misaligned teeth can have the same effect.
Functional Issues
When teeth don’t meet correctly, it can lead to functional problems such as difficulty in chewing or speaking. This can also strain facial muscles, leading to imbalances. Braces help in ensuring teeth meet as they should, resolving these strains and fostering symmetry.
Transforming More than Smiles
Braces and other orthodontic treatments offer more than cosmetic improvements. While those may be important to you and are certainly a consideration for many patients, remember that addressing these issues may offer you even more.
Boosting Confidence
It’s undeniable that feeling good about how you look can boost one’s self-esteem. As braces work to align the teeth and jaw, the subsequent changes to one’s facial structure can bring about a renewed sense of confidence.
Better Health
Braces are a genuine investment in your health. Misaligned teeth can cause various issues, including gum diseases, cavities, and even headaches. By opting for braces, you’re not only working towards a symmetrical face but also promoting better dental and overall health.
Could Braces be the Answer for You?
Braces do much more than straighten our teeth; they can play a pivotal role in balancing your facial features and boosting your self-esteem and health. It’s important to remember that orthodontic treatments can help with some asymmetries; it may not treat every instance, and it cannot fix all degrees of this issue.
If you are contemplating braces or any orthodontic treatment, reach out to us to discuss the potential benefits tailored to your unique needs.
