Table of contents
1. What are braces?
Braces are a dental procedure that corrects the position of the teeth and jawbone to achieve a standard bite and beautiful teeth. This process uses orthodontic devices such as brackets, wires or clear aligners to apply force to the teeth, helping them gradually move to the desired position.
Braces not only help improve aesthetics but also correct bite problems, help chew better and prevent oral diseases. Braces usually last from 18 to 24 months, depending on each person's oral condition.
2. Do braces really change your face?
Braces can change the face, but the extent of change depends on the age, bite condition and facial bone structure of each person. In adults, the change is usually less because the bones have fully developed.
It is important to understand that braces do not directly affect the facial bone structure, but mainly affect the teeth, jawbone and surrounding soft tissues.
When wearing braces, teeth are moved to their correct position, the bite is adjusted, thereby affecting the shape of the lips, chin and facial features. These changes are often positive, helping the face become more balanced and harmonious.
However, it is important to note that braces are not a comprehensive facial rejuvenation method. They can only improve certain aspects related to the position of the teeth and bite.
3. Changes in the face after braces
After braces, you may notice some changes in your face such as:
a. More balanced chin:
For people with overbites or underbites, bite correction can help bring the chin into better proportion with the rest of the face.
b. Fuller and more symmetrical lips:
When the teeth are adjusted to the correct position, the lips will also be better supported, creating a fuller and more symmetrical feeling.
c. Clearer jaw angle:
Especially in people with underbite, after braces, the jaw angle can become clearer and sharper.
d. The nose appears higher:
When the upper front teeth are brought into their correct position, it can create the illusion of a higher nose, especially in people with overbites. In fact, braces can help to balance the lips and chin, improving facial harmony. However, braces do not change the shape or height of the nose.
e. Fuller cheeks:
Adjusting the position of the teeth can help the cheeks appear fuller and more youthful.
f. Slimmer face:
In some cases, bite adjustment can help the face look slimmer and more V-line.
g. Brighter smile:
When your teeth are even and straight, your smile will become more confident and radiant, contributing to the beauty of your entire face.
4. Compare the face before and after braces in specific cases
a. Case of buck teeth:
– Before braces: The upper lip is often pushed out, the chin seems to recede, creating a feeling of a long and unbalanced face.
– After braces: The upper lip will be in a more natural position, the chin will be balanced with the rest of the face, creating harmony for the entire face.
b. Case of buck teeth:
– Before braces: The chin often protrudes forward, the lower lip tends to turn outward, creating a short and angular face.
– After braces: The chin will move back to a more balanced position, the lower lip will be in a natural position, helping the face look more balanced and softer.
c. Open bite case:
– Before braces: The face often appears long, lips are difficult to close, there is a gap between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed.
– After braces: Lips can close naturally, the balance between the upper and lower parts of the face is improved, creating more harmony.
d. In case of crowded teeth:
– Before braces: The face may look asymmetrical, especially the lips and chin.
– After braces: Teeth are arranged evenly, helping lips and chin look more balanced, creating harmony for the entire face.
5. Factors affecting the degree of facial changes when wearing braces
a. Initial deviation level:
Cases with severe tooth and bite misalignment will often have more obvious changes after braces.
b. Age:
Young people, especially teenagers, often have more noticeable changes because the jawbone is still in the development stage.
c. Orthodontic methods:
Different orthodontic methods can produce different aesthetic results.
d. Doctor's technique and experience:
An experienced doctor will be able to predict and adjust the results better, bringing positive changes to the face.
e. Existing facial bone structure:
Each person's initial facial bone structure will affect the degree of change after braces.
f. Treatment time:
The longer you wear braces, the more noticeable the changes to your face can be.
6. Notes when wearing braces for best results
a. Choose a dentist with expertise and experience:
This is important to ensure the best orthodontic results, not only functionally but also aesthetically.
b. Follow your doctor's instructions:
Following instructions on oral care, wearing your orthodontic appliances, and following scheduled appointments will help your orthodontic treatment go smoothly.
c. Maintain good oral hygiene:
Thorough oral hygiene while wearing braces will help prevent problems such as tooth decay and gingivitis.
d. Patience and perseverance:
The braces process can be lengthy, so patience is needed to achieve the best results.
e. Tell your doctor if you have any discomfort:
If you feel any unusual pain or discomfort, notify your doctor immediately for timely treatment.
f. Mental preparation:
Understand that facial changes will happen gradually and may not be noticeable right away.
7. Conclusion
Braces can change your face, but the degree of change will vary from person to person. These changes are usually positive, creating a more balanced and harmonious face. However, it is important to have realistic expectations about the results and choose a qualified dentist to ensure the best results.
If you are considering braces and want to know if they can help improve your appearance, consult a specialist dentist. They can assess your oral health and advise you on the best treatment options.
If you have any questions about braces and their effects on your face, do not hesitate to send your questions via the 'ASK A QUESTION' section on our website. Our experts will be happy to answer all your questions.
You can also test your dental knowledge by taking the 'DENTAL QUIZ' game on the website. It's a fun way to learn more about dental health and find out things you might not know.
