One of the most common questions people have before starting orthodontic treatment is, “Will braces change my face shape?” It’s a valid concern. After all, your smile is a central part of your appearance, and any changes to it can feel significant.

The short answer is yes, braces can influence your facial appearance, but these changes are almost always positive and often subtle.

This guide will explain how orthodontic treatment works and what you can expect regarding changes to your facial structure. We’ll explore the positive effects braces can have, address common myths, and explain what to look for in an orthodontist to ensure you get the best results for both your health and appearance.

Key Takeaways

Braces primarily correct teeth and jaw alignment, which can lead to subtle, beneficial changes in your facial profile.
Correcting issues like overbites or underbites often results in a more balanced and harmonious facial appearance.
Factors like age, the severity of your orthodontic issues, and the type of treatment all influence the extent of facial changes.
Dramatic or unwanted changes to your face shape are a common myth; the goal of orthodontics is to enhance your natural features.

Understanding Your Face and Jaw

To understand how braces can affect your face, it helps to know a little about facial anatomy. Your face’s structure is determined by your bones, including your upper jaw (maxilla) and lower jaw (mandible). The position of these bones and how your teeth fit together directly influence your profile, lip support, and the appearance of your lower face.

When teeth are misaligned or jaws don’t meet correctly (a condition known as malocclusion), it can affect your facial symmetry. Braces work by applying gentle, continuous pressure to move teeth into their proper positions.

In some cases, orthodontic treatment also guides jaw growth or corrects jaw alignment, which is where more noticeable facial changes can occur.

How Braces Can Influence Your Facial Appearance

The primary goal of braces is to give you a healthy bite and a beautiful smile. The changes to your face are typically a positive side effect of achieving that goal.

Correcting Overbites and Underbites

Overbite Correction: When you have a significant overbite (where the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth too much), your chin may appear weak or recessed. Correcting an overbite can bring the lower jaw forward, creating a stronger, more defined jawline and a more balanced profile.
Underbite Correction: An underbite (where the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth) can make the chin look overly prominent. Orthodontic treatment can retract the lower jaw or advance the upper jaw, softening the chin’s appearance and creating a more harmonious facial structure.

Improving Your Smile and Lip Support

What do straight teeth look like? Beyond just being aligned, they support the surrounding facial tissues. Properly positioned teeth provide the foundation for your lips and cheeks. After braces, you may notice:

Fuller Lips: If your teeth were previously angled inward, moving them into the correct position can provide better support for your lips, making them appear fuller and more defined.
Reduced Sunken Appearance: For some people with missing teeth or severe misalignments, their cheeks can look sunken. Orthodontics, sometimes in combination with other dental work, can restore that underlying structure, leading to a fuller, more youthful facial appearance.

It’s important to remember that these changes are the result of correcting underlying dental issues. The goal is never to drastically alter your face but to enhance your natural beauty by creating harmony and balance.

Factors That Influence Facial Changes

Not everyone will see noticeable changes in their face shape after getting braces. The degree of change depends on several factors:

Age: Younger patients whose jaws are still developing may see more significant changes, as orthodontics can guide jaw growth. In adults, changes are typically limited to the movement of teeth and more subtle adjustments to the jawline.
Severity of the Condition: Someone with a severe overbite or underbite will likely see more noticeable facial changes than someone with minor crowding.
Treatment Type: While both traditional braces and clear aligners like Spark™ Clear Aligners are effective, certain complex cases requiring appliances like headgear or expanders may have a greater impact on facial structure.
Your Unique Facial Structure: Everyone’s bone structure is different. The final outcome will depend on your individual anatomy and how your teeth and jaws respond to treatment.

Addressing Common Myths and Concerns

A common fear is that braces will make your face look “weird” or change it in an undesirable way. Many online myths suggest braces will make your nose bigger or your face longer. These are simply not true.

Orthodontists are experts in dentofacial orthopedics—the guidance of facial growth and development. They plan your treatment meticulously to improve your facial aesthetics, not detract from them.

The most effective way to address your concerns is to speak directly with an orthodontist who can give you personalized information based on your specific needs.

Choosing the Right Orthodontist in Portland

The key to achieving the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always wanted is finding an experienced orthodontist who uses the latest technology. At Magic Smiles, Dr. Sara Edmondson and Dr. Phil Doleac combine decades of expertise with a passion for creating positive patient experiences.

We’ve created a friendly, fun atmosphere where you’ll feel comfortable and cared for from your first visit. Our team is proud to use state-of-the-art technology like the iTero® digital scanning system. This advanced tool eliminates the need for messy, goop-filled impression trays. Instead, we capture a precise 3D model of your teeth in minutes.

The best part? The iTero scanner allows us to show you a simulation of your results before you even begin treatment. You can see what your straight teeth will look like and feel confident in your decision to start your smile journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will my cheeks look different after braces?
A: Some patients notice a subtle change in their cheeks. If your dental arch was narrow, widening it with braces can give your cheeks a fuller, more supported appearance.

Q: Can braces fix a weak jawline?
A: In cases where a weak jawline is caused by an overbite, braces can help improve its appearance by correcting the bite and creating a more balanced profile.

Q: What do teeth look like after braces?
A: After braces, teeth are straight, evenly spaced, and fit together correctly. This not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also contributes to better oral health by making teeth easier to clean.

Q: Will I look different after my braces are removed?
A: You will definitely have a new smile! Any other changes to your face will likely be subtle enhancements to your profile and the area around your mouth, resulting in a more balanced and harmonious look.

Your Best Smile Awaits

Braces are a powerful tool for improving both your dental health and your overall appearance. While the idea that braces will change your face shape can be daunting, the reality is that these changes are a positive outcome of skilled orthodontic care. By correcting underlying dental issues, braces can enhance your natural features and give you a smile you’re proud to share.

Ready to see what’s possible for your smile? The team at Magic Smiles is here to guide you. We invite you to read our patient reviews and see why families in Portland trust us with their smiles.

Magic Smiles of Portland:
10850 NE Halsey St, Portland, OR 97220
(503) 255-1694

Schedule your complimentary consultation with us today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident you.