You only get one smile, and it’s the main thing a great many people notice about you. It can characterize such a great deal your character and influence how you conduct yourself. The symmetry of your face can determine whether you are outgoing and how you position yourself in photographs and interviews. On the other hand, facial lopsidedness can cause torment in certain individuals’ jaw and make a beeline for unfortunate rest and ill-advised wear of your teeth from a chomp revised for torment rather than capability. The inquiry to pose to yourself is could orthodontics at any point fix facial unevenness and give you alleviation?
Understanding the Causes of Facial Asymmetry
Most orthodontic problems are inherited. Genetic factors leading to facial asymmetry can include tooth crowding, spacing, protrusion, missing or extra teeth, and jaw growth irregularities. Additionally, external factors such as thumb-sucking, dental issues, accidents, or early or late loss of baby teeth can contribute to bite irregularities and facial imbalances.
While reaching adulthood typically signals the end of bone growth, cartilage continues to evolve, potentially altering facial symmetry as you age. Moreover, factors like muscle imbalances, accidents, or infections can also influence facial asymmetry, presenting unexpected challenges besides genetics and ageing.
In some cases, severe health issues like Bell’s Palsy or Torticollis can result in facial asymmetry. Bell’s Palsy, a viral infection causing facial muscle paralysis, and Torticollis, an abnormal resting position of neck muscles occurring in the womb, are typically temporary but can impact facial balance.
Implications of Facial Asymmetry
Research suggests that facial symmetry significantly influences how attractive one appears to others. While nobody possesses perfect facial balance, significant asymmetry can affect functionality, impacting speech, and eating, and leading to jaw or head discomfort.
Crooked and crowded teeth pose challenges in cleaning and maintenance. A misaligned bite can cause irregular tooth wear, chewing and speech difficulties, and additional stress on supporting bone and gum tissue. Left untreated, these problems can worsen, necessitating more extensive dental care later in life.
For some patients, facial asymmetry may signal underlying undiagnosed conditions like sleep apnea or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can profoundly impact overall health beyond a misaligned smile.
Orthodontic Solutions for Facial Asymmetry
Correcting facial asymmetry through orthodontic solutions involves a comprehensive assessment of your facial features and oral health to create a customised treatment plan.
In the past, jaw surgery was a typical approach for severe cases of facial asymmetry. However, modern orthodontic techniques, such as braces or aligners, now provide practical options for milder cases. Traditional braces or clear aligners like Invisalign are effective for addressing under or overbites. With advancements in technology, metal braces have become smaller and more comfortable, and they even offer personalised features, like coloured elastic bands, for a more engaging experience.
In situations where an insufficient upper jaw contributes to facial asymmetry, a palatal expander can gradually widen the upper palate, promoting symmetry. Non-invasive treatments are often successful in resolving facial asymmetry. These efficient orthodontic solutions, explored after a free consultation, are tailored to suit most cases. Your commitment to following the treatment plan, attending regular appointments, and maintaining good oral hygiene plays a significant role in achieving optimal results, in partnership with the right orthodontic team.