When we think of orthodontics, we tend to focus on how treatments like braces and clear aligners can improve how your teeth look. However, we don’t often consider that orthodontics can also improve how your face looks as you age.
Addressing alignment issues as an adult can significantly influence how your face changes over time, and may even help keep you looking younger longer.
Orthodontics and Facial Structure
As we age, our bodies naturally change, and our faces are no exception. Skin loses elasticity, bones can shift, and muscles may lose some of their tone.
Interestingly, the position of your teeth and jaws plays a significant role in the structure of the lower face. When teeth are properly aligned, they provide better support for the lips and cheeks.
By correcting dental issues with adult orthodontics, we can often address structural concerns that contribute to an older appearance, while simultaneously improving oral function.
Tooth Crowding
When teeth crowd together or tilt inward, they can reduce the support provided to the lips and cheeks. This lack of support may cause the lips to appear thinner or the area around the mouth to look sunken.
Orthodontic treatment works to realign the dental arch, positioning the teeth where they can best support the soft tissues of the face. By restoring the proper arch, we can help maintain the natural fullness of the lips and lower face.
Bite Alignment and Facial Symmetry
A misaligned bite doesn’t just affect the appearance of your smile, your chewing, and potentially your speech; it can also affect the symmetry of your face. Overbites, underbites, and crossbites can push the jaw into an unnatural position, changing the appearance of the lower face.
- Overbite: A deep overbite can cause the chin to look recessed or weak.
- Underbite: Conversely, an underbite can make the lower jaw appear too prominent.
- Symmetry: When teeth are missing or misaligned, the face may appear asymmetrical.
Correcting alignment issues can correct the bite to a more aesthetically pleasing position, improving the profile.
Wear and Bone Loss
When teeth are misaligned, they can create abnormal pressure during chewing that can lead to premature wear of the tooth enamel. As a result, teeth can appear shorter, which is a characteristic often associated with aging.
Furthermore, gaps in the smile can lead to bone loss in the jaw. The jawbone requires stimulation from the teeth to maintain its density. When teeth are missing or spacing is significant, the bone in that area can begin to resorb or shrink. This loss of bone volume can contribute to a “collapsed” look in the lower third of the face.
Adult orthodontics addresses these issues by properly aligning teeth so they share the workload of chewing evenly, preventing excessive wear on specific teeth. Further, it closes spaces, which helps preserve bone density and facial structure.
Longevity of Your Smile
While the visual benefits are significant, the foundation of a younger-looking smile is health. Straight teeth are easier to clean. Crowded or overlapping teeth create tight spaces where plaque and bacteria can accumulate, increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Receding gums and missing teeth are major factors that can age a smile. Furthermore, missing teeth can contribute to a sunken, aged look of the lower face.
By straightening teeth, brushing and flossing are more effective, reducing inflammation and keeping the gum tissue healthy, and reducing the risk of tooth loss.
Orthodontic Options for Adult Patients
Many adults hesitate to pursue treatment because they envision traditional metal braces. However, modern orthodontics offers several discreet options that work for professional lifestyles.
- Clear Aligners: SureSmile aligners use a series of clear, removable trays to gradually move teeth. They are virtually invisible and allow for easy cleaning.
- Clear Braces: These function like traditional braces but use clear brackets that blend in with your smile.
During a consultation, we can evaluate your specific needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment choice to achieve your goals effectively and comfortably.
Invest in Your Smile and Appearance
If you have noticed changes in your smile or bite, schedule a consultation with our team. We can provide a thorough evaluation and discuss how customized orthodontic treatment can support your long-term dental health and your appearance as you age.
