Do Braces Change Your Face Shape? Here’s What to Know

A study by the American Association of Orthodontists reveals that nearly 4 million Americans are undergoing brace treatment. And this number is only growing. So it’s safe to say that what else braces enhance other than your smile is a valid question to ask your orthodontist. And the good news is, braces really do more than just align your teeth. They also influence how your jaw and mouth align. As you carry forward your orthodontic treatment, you’ll surely notice how your chin, lips, cheeks, and jaws change their shape. You can expect to spot a gradual change in your overall facial structure. This change depends on how your bones and soft tissues adapt during the treatment.

These changes are more distinct in younger patients whose bones are still developing. For adults, results may be more subtle but still beneficial.

Why Face Shape Can Shift During Orthodontic Treatment

Your face isn’t just shaped by genetics. The alignment of your bite and the position of your teeth also influence your appearance. Malocclusions such as open bite, underbite, and overbite can make one lose all their confidence and stay hidden in their home. But that’s not a way to lead a life. Affordable braces near you can bring a drastic change in the life of people struggling with such bite alignment issues. 

Bone Movement

Braces apply steady pressure to move teeth into the right/intended positions. As the teeth shift, the surrounding bone/jawbone remodels. Over time, this may adjust the lower face shape. Sounds amazing, no? 

Bite Correction

Correcting an overbite, underbite, or crossbite can shift how the jaw aligns. A severe overbite, for instance, may make the lower face look shorter. Fixing it with braces can improve one’s facial vertical height and symmetry. It helps people feel confident and find joy in things that they used to shy away from. 

Soft Tissue Adjustments

The way your lips rest on your teeth may change during the treatment. Once teeth are aligned, the lips may appear fuller. This can subtly enhance facial harmony without changing your actual features.

What About Major Facial Changes?

Braces don’t drastically alter your face. If you want significant changes to occur, you might need to undergo jaw surgery along with orthodontic treatment. You can only expect gradual changes in your face shape that look natural and symmetrical.

If you’ve been searching for affordable braces near me, and you live in or near Justin, you can talk to our orthodontist, who can assess how your bite may influence your overall look.

What to Expect After Braces Come Off

Once your braces are removed, you might notice:

• A better-defined jawline
• Balanced facial proportions
• More confidence in smiling without hiding behind your hands

So, do braces change your face shape? Yes—but not dramatically or artificially. The changes come from your teeth and jaws working together more efficiently. What you’re left with is a more balanced facial structure and a smile that fits you better.

Curious why your teeth shift after braces? Discover the causes and simple ways to keep your smile straight in our latest blog! Read now to learn how to protect your results. https://affordablebracesjustin.com/how-to-stop-teeth-shifting-after-braces/