Can Orthodontic Treatment Fix Facial Symmetry?

Are you self-conscious about your facial asymmetry? Do you avoid smiling in photos or feel uncomfortable in social situations because of your appearance? If so, you’re not alone. While facial symmetry doesn’t often cause any sort of physical pain or issues, it does often cause mental health issues and self-esteem issues. 

Many people struggle with facial asymmetry, but fortunately, there is a solution – orthodontic treatment in our Westbury, NY practice.

What Is Facial Symmetry?

Facial symmetry refers to the balance and proportion of the different parts of the face. No one has a perfectly symmetrical face, nor should that ever be the goal, however, some faces have a more extreme unbalance than others. When the face is symmetrical, it appears more aesthetically pleasing, and the features work together in harmony. However, when the different parts of the face don’t match up, it can lead to a lopsided appearance that can impact a person’s self-esteem and confidence.

Orthodontics to the Rescue

The good news is that orthodontic treatment can address facial asymmetry by correcting the position of the teeth and jaw. By moving the teeth and jaw into the correct alignment, orthodontics can help balance the facial structure and improve overall symmetry. It’s like a magic trick, but better.

Catch It Early

The key is to catch facial asymmetry early on. Orthodontists recommend that kids have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. That way, any potential issues can be detected and treated before they turn into bigger problems or become more challenging to fix at older ages when the bones and facial structures are less moveable. 

If facial asymmetry is detected during the initial evaluation, the orthodontist can develop a treatment plan to address the issue. 

Treatment Options

Various orthodontic treatments can help fix facial asymmetry, depending on the severity of the issue and the unique facial structure. 

Here are some options:

• Palatal expander: Used to widen the upper jaw and create more space for the teeth to settle 
• Braces: Can move the teeth into the correct position
• Clear aligners: Like braces, but less noticeable

These are the main methods that are used to help with facial symmetry. However, there are smaller, more personalized methods that can be used depending on your unique bone structure. 

The Benefits of Orthodontics for Facial Symmetry 

Fixing facial asymmetry isn’t just about looking good. It can also prevent more severe issues down the road, like problems with chewing, speech, and breathing. 

In addition to the functional benefits, orthodontic treatment for facial symmetry can also improve a person’s self-esteem and confidence. It’s no secret that when a person is unhappy with their appearance, it can impact their mental health and overall quality of life. They may not go out to social events as often, want to hide their face in photos, and overall feel self-conscious while around other people. Orthodontic treatment can help correct facial asymmetry, leading to a more balanced and harmonious appearance and bring about more self-confidence. 

So, Can Orthodontics Fix Facial Symmetry?

Yes, it can! But catching it early and taking action is key. If you or your child has facial asymmetry, schedule a consultation with our friendly and skilled team to see how orthodontic treatment can help. Trust us, you won’t regret it.