Do Braces Change the Face Form?

Braces are often associated with straightening teeth and improving oral health, but many people wonder if braces can also change the shape of the face. The short answer is yes—braces can influence your facial structure, but these changes are typically subtle and result from the alignment of your teeth and jaw.

How Braces Work

Braces are orthodontic devices designed to correct misaligned teeth and jaws. They apply constant, gentle pressure over time to guide your teeth into their proper positions. By moving your teeth, braces can also influence the alignment of your jaw and overall facial structure.

Ways Braces Can Affect Your Face

1. Jaw Alignment and Shape

One of the most significant ways braces can change your face is by improving the alignment of your jaw.

• Overbite: If you have an overbite, your upper jaw protrudes over your lower jaw, which can make your face appear longer or give it a "buck-tooth" appearance. Braces can help reposition your teeth and jaw, creating a more balanced facial profile.
• Underbite: An underbite, where the lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw, can give your face a more protruded or square appearance. Braces can help pull the lower jaw back into alignment for a softer, more harmonious look.
• Crossbite: A crossbite can make your jaw appear asymmetrical. Correcting it with braces can help balance your facial features.

2. Lips and Smile

Braces can alter the way your lips sit over your teeth, particularly if you have significant alignment issues.

• Protruding Teeth: If your teeth stick out significantly, your lips may also appear pushed forward. As braces bring the teeth back into alignment, your lips may rest more naturally and proportionately on your face.
• Gaps Between Teeth: Closing gaps can enhance the appearance of your smile, giving it a fuller and more symmetrical look.

3. Cheek and Chin Structure

Braces can subtly enhance the shape of your cheeks and chin by correcting bite and jaw alignment issues.

• Sunken Cheeks: Missing teeth or improper alignment can cause a lack of support in your facial structure, leading to sunken cheeks. Braces or orthodontic treatments that replace missing teeth can restore this support, giving the face a fuller appearance.
• Chin Protrusion or Recession: Adjusting the jaw alignment can influence how pronounced or recessed your chin appears, creating a more balanced facial profile.

Age and the Impact of Braces on Face Shape

For Children and Teens

In younger patients, braces can have a more noticeable impact on facial structure. Because their bones are still developing, orthodontic treatments can guide the growth of the jaw and facial bones, preventing potential issues and enhancing symmetry.

For Adults

While braces can still improve facial aesthetics in adults, the changes tend to be less dramatic since the bones have fully matured. However, aligning teeth and correcting bite issues can still enhance the appearance of the face and improve oral health.