Braces are most commonly known for straightening teeth, but as braces and Invisalign treatments gradually realign your teeth, they also adjust the relationship between your lips, jaw, and cheeks. Braces positively impact your facial structure and oral health, especially in children because their bones are still growing and developing. According to a recent study by the World Health Organization, one in every five people suffers from some level of facial growth deformity. At your initial consultation for orthodontic treatment, Dr. Burke and Dr. Beckstrom will come up with a plan to straighten your smile and improve your facial structure. 

 

Can Braces Change The Shape of Your Face? 

 

The short answer is yes! Factors such as your age and malocclusions can affect your bite and the structure of your face. Braces and Invisalign can affect the appearance of your jaw, lips, and cheeks. Someone missing teeth or has apparent over spacing might have a sunk-in facial structure. When correcting misaligned teeth, the goal is to straighten your smile and adjust your jaw to a more natural and appealing appearance. Changing the appearance of your face can improve self-confidence and make you look younger. 

 

What Things Effect The Shape of Your Face? 

 

Multiple factors tie into your facial appearance, including overbites and underbites and crowding and spacing. Your age can also be a factor when correcting misaligned teeth. Dr. Burke and Dr. Beckstrom practice what’s called preventative orthodontic treatment. This treatment is done when a child’s teeth are still growing. Children’s mouths are easier to adjust because of this. 

 

  1. Overbites and Underbites: Braces are effective in creating a more natural bite. An overbite causes the upper teeth to push against the lips creating a visible bulge. All teeth should come together evenly. Dr. Burke and Dr. Beckstrom use a combination of elastic bands, spacers, or other appliances to move and correct your bite.
  2. Overcrowding and Spacing: The space between your teeth can cause your face to appear asymmetrical. One side of your face might appear more lifted than the other. This can cause your lips to protrude unevenly. Symmetry improves your facial appearance and causes lips to be less pronounced than before. Over spaced teeth can also cause your cheeks to sink in. Braces can align teeth and give your cheeks a more distinct look.
  3. Age: Because the children are growing and developing, their teeth, gums, jawbones, and muscles are more flexible. Braces can have a significant impact on their smile at this developmental stage. Adults, however, have a more challenging time adjusting teeth for a few different reasons. As we grow older, our bones and teeth become harder, which makes them harder to move and change. Poor oral hygiene can also affect the body’s ability to produce bone-growing cells affecting positive results from orthodontic treatment.

 

Ready for Braces? 

 

Braces positively impact your facial structure and can improve your self-esteem and confidence. The position of your jaw, lips, and cheeks is adjusted with treatments such as braces and a combination of other appliances. Dr. Burke and Dr. Beckstrom use these treatments to realign the jaw and help your face appear more symmetrical. Not only will your teeth slowly become straighter, but your face shape will also begin to adjust. Our staff at Burke and Beckstrom Orthodontics is excited to help you regain confidence in your smile and appearance. Check out our website or give us a call to schedule a consultation today!