A common question when it comes to braces is whether or not they change your face shape. The impact of braces on facial aesthetics is a common concern, especially for those who are mindful of how their appearance may change during and after treatment. While the primary goal of braces is to straighten teeth and correct bites, they can also influence the overall structure of the face.
Although the short answer is yes, we look to explain how braces can affect facial features, including the jawline, and lips as well as alternative options to braces.
How Braces Change Your Face Shape
Braces and Children
In childhood, braces can have a noticeable impact on face shape. Since children’s bones are still growing, orthodontic treatment can guide jaw development and correct misalignments that might otherwise cause issues later in life. By aligning the teeth and properly positioning the jaws, braces can improve facial symmetry, creating a more balanced and harmonious appearance. This early intervention can prevent more severe problems and may lead to more significant changes in the shape of the face.
Braces and Adults
For adults, braces can also influence face shape, although the changes tend to be subtler. Fully developed bone structures mean that the scope for dramatic transformation is limited compared to children. However, braces can still refine the jawline and align the teeth, which can enhance facial balance and symmetry. These adjustments can lead to a more polished and aesthetically pleasing appearance, even if the changes are less pronounced than those seen in younger patients.
Do Braces Improve Jawline?
Braces can indeed improve the appearance of the jawline by addressing various alignment issues, such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites. When the teeth and jaws are properly aligned, the jawline becomes more defined and symmetrical.
Correcting an overbite, for example, can bring the upper jaw back into balance with the lower jaw, enhancing the overall harmony of the face. Similarly, addressing an underbite can prevent the lower jaw from protruding too far forward, which can make the jawline appear more prominent and aligned. By resolving these issues, braces contribute to a smoother and more aesthetically pleasing jawline.
So, “Do braces improve jawline?” The answer is typically yes. While the extent of the improvement can vary depending on individual factors, many patients find that their jawline becomes more refined and balanced after treatment.
Do Braces Affect Your Lips?
Yes, braces can affect your lips, but usually in a positive way. The alignment of your teeth plays a significant role in how your lips rest when your mouth is closed. Misaligned teeth can cause your lips to protrude or not meet properly, which may affect the overall balance of your facial features.
When braces correct these misalignments, they can subtly alter the way your lips sit on your face. For instance, if you had an overbite that pushed your upper teeth forward, this might have caused your upper lip to stick out more than usual. As braces bring your teeth into alignment, your lips may also adjust, resulting in a more natural and harmonious appearance.
The good news is that any changes to your lips are typically subtle and enhance your overall look. By bringing your teeth into proper alignment, braces help your lips rest comfortably and naturally, contributing to the improved aesthetics of your smile and face.
Alternative Options to Braces
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign or spark aligners offer a discreet and flexible option for correcting misaligned teeth and enhancing your facial aesthetics. These custom-made, transparent trays gradually shift your teeth into their proper positions without the need for metal brackets or wires. Clear aligners are especially appealing for those looking for a less noticeable way to improve their smile. They can effectively address many of the same issues that braces do, including improving the jawline and overall facial symmetry.
Orthognathic Surgery
In more severe cases of jaw misalignment, orthognathic surgery may be considered as a direct and effective solution. This surgical procedure is designed to correct significant structural issues that braces or aligners alone cannot address. By repositioning the jaws, orthognathic surgery can dramatically improve facial balance, enhance the jawline, and resolve functional problems like difficulty chewing or breathing. It’s a more involved approach, typically recommended for complex cases where other treatments may fall short.
Retainers
While retainers are primarily used to maintain the results of orthodontic treatment, they also play a role in preserving the improvements made to your face shape and jawline. After braces or clear aligners, wearing a retainer helps keep your teeth in their new positions, ensuring that the positive changes to your facial structure are long-lasting.
Your Orthodontic Experts
Ready to explore how orthodontic treatment can enhance your smile and improve your facial aesthetics? Contact Gullotta Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation. Our team is dedicated to providing expert, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re considering braces, clear aligners, or exploring other treatment options, we’re here to help you achieve a confident, beautiful smile.