Your face plays a big role in your self-confidence. It’s the first thing people notice about you, and it can affect how they perceive you and, more importantly, how you perceive yourself.
A big part of that starts with your smile and chin. There is a lot of evidence to suggest that orthodontic treatment can solve problems like facial asymmetry. In our clinic, we want you to move forward with confidence throughout your life. Let’s examine what facial asymmetry is and how our orthodontic team can help correct it.
What are the causes of facial asymmetry?
When you reach adulthood, you may believe that your facial structure has settled permanently. This is usually true because your bones are no longer growing like they did when you were younger. But your cartilage is still growing, and this can change your facial symmetry as you age. Besides that, there are other reasons you might not have thought of finding yourself dealing with asymmetry. Genetics and aging can also cause asymmetry, as can irregular muscles, accidents, injuries, and infections.
There are serious health problems that can lead to facial asymmetry. Bell’s Palsy is a viral infection of the muscles on one side of your face that causes facial paralysis. A less common condition is called Torticollis, also known as “twisted neck.” This causes your neck muscles to stay in an abnormal position and facial asymmetry. This usually occurs in the womb, and both of these conditions are typically temporary. Other causes include lifestyle choices such as smoking, sun tanning or overexposure, and certain dental procedures.
What are the effects of facial asymmetry?
Your face plays a big role in what makes you feel attractive and what makes you attractive to others. The symmetry of your face can also affect how others see your smile. Studies have even found that people generally prefer a more symmetrical face. But beyond physical attractiveness, facial symmetry can reveal the state of your health. While no one has perfect facial symmetry, there are instances where your asymmetry could be more than just how you look. Facial asymmetry can be problematic in terms of functionality, disrupting the way you speak and eat, and even causing jaw or headaches.
Facial asymmetry can even be a sign of much deeper medical problems. In some cases, it is a symptom or side effect of underlying, even undiagnosed problems, such as sleep apnea or TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder. These conditions can have a much more detrimental effect on your overall health and have more serious consequences than aesthetics.
How can orthodontics help?
Metal braces
Traditional metal braces are one of the most common and widely recognized types of orthodontic braces. The brackets are made from a mix of stainless steel and other high-quality metals, giving them long-term durability. Modern metal braces are also lighter and more comfortable than the bulky, painful braces of the past. They also come with elastic bands that help correct bite and come in multiple colors so you can add a playful personality to your treat.
Transparent braces
Also known as “ceramic braces,” clear braces work the same way metal braces do, but have a sleeker, more invisible appearance. Clear braces are the same size and shape as metal braces, but are made of tooth-coloured, polycrystalline ceramic material and elastic bonds. Because of their most discreet appearance, clear braces tend to be a popular choice among adults. The only downside to cleaning braces is that they are less durable and more prone to damage. But with the right care and attention, they can be just as effective as metal braces.
Invisalign (clear aligners)
Don’t want to deal with braces and brackets? Invisalign retainers have the unobtrusive appearance of wire and metal-free clear braces. They are easily removable and are made using photographs and x-rays of your mouth taken by our team to give you a custom fit. Much like clear braces, this nearly invisible aesthetic is a popular choice for older orthodontic patients. To be effective, they must be worn twenty-two hours a day. Most patients wear their own trays for nine to fifteen months, depending on their needs, and go through several plaques throughout their treatment.
