Braces are commonly associated with straightening teeth, but what many people don’t realize is that orthodontic treatment can do more than create a beautiful smile. Braces can influence the shape and symmetry of your face, especially when treatment is done at the right time.
At Mission Creek Orthodontics, we provide advanced orthodontics for children, teens, and adults across Kelowna. Our experienced orthodontists design treatment plans that not only improve oral health but also support facial aesthetics and proper jaw alignment.
So, can braces change the shape of your face? Here’s what you need to know.
How Braces Impact Facial Structure
Braces work by gradually shifting your teeth and aligning your bite. Because the position of your teeth is closely connected to your jawbones and facial muscles, changes in alignment can create subtle yet noticeable differences in your overall facial appearance.
Here’s how this works across different age groups:
Orthodontics for Children: Early Intervention and Growth Guidance
In children, orthodontic treatment has the greatest potential to influence facial development. Since the jaw is still growing, early intervention can:
- Correct bite problems that affect facial symmetry
- Encourage proper jaw growth to prevent underbites or overbites.
- Improve lip posture and facial profile.
- Prevent the need for more invasive treatments later.
At Mission Creek Orthodontics, we recommend an initial evaluation around age 7. This allows our orthodontists in Kelowna to monitor jaw development and intervene when beneficial.
Orthodontics for Teens: Shaping Facial Balance During Growth
During the teenage years, the jaw continues to develop rapidly. Orthodontics for teens is not only effective for aligning teeth but also for improving bite mechanics and facial proportions.
Braces in this age group can help:
- Align the upper and lower jaws
- Improve side facial profiles (especially in overjet or underbite cases)
- Support chin symmetry
- Correct deep bites that cause a sunken lower face
At Mission Creek Orthodontics, our teen patients often report a noticeable boost in self-confidence, not just from straighter teeth, but from a more harmonious facial appearance.
Orthodontics for Adults: Refinement and Facial Enhancement
While facial bones are fully developed in adulthood, orthodontics for adults can still lead to positive facial changes. These may include:
- Improved jawline definition through corrected bites
- Reduction of facial strain or tension caused by misalignment
- Enhanced lip support and mouth posture
- Better facial balance through dental arch alignment
Adult braces or clear aligners may not cause dramatic reshaping, but they do refine and support overall facial harmony, particularly in the lower third of the face.
Common Facial Changes Braces Can Influence
1. Jaw Alignment and Profile
In cases of severe overbite or underbite, repositioning the teeth and jaws can significantly alter your side profile. Braces can bring the lower jaw forward or retract the upper jaw that protrudes too much.
2. Cheekbone and Midface Definition
Correcting crossbites or arch width can provide better facial support, creating subtle changes in cheek structure and the width of the midface.
3. Chin and Jawline
In patients with deep bites or poor lower jaw positioning, orthodontic treatment can improve chin prominence and jawline clarity, often reducing a recessed or “weak” chin appearance.
4. Lip Posture
Misaligned teeth can cause the lips to appear uneven, strained, or unsupported. Braces reposition the teeth behind the lips, improving how the mouth sits naturally.
Braces vs. Jaw Surgery: What’s the Difference?
While braces can significantly impact facial balance, severe skeletal issues may require orthognathic (jaw) surgery in combination with orthodontic treatment. Our team at Mission Creek Orthodontics evaluates each case carefully to determine whether braces alone are sufficient or if a surgical referral is needed.
For most patients—especially children and teens—braces alone are enough to achieve excellent results both functionally and aesthetically.
Why Facial Symmetry Matters
Facial symmetry is about more than just appearance. It contributes to:
- Proper chewing and speech
- Even distribution of bite force
- Reduced risk of TMJ disorders
- Better breathing and airway support
- Improved self-confidence and social comfort
When teeth and jaws are misaligned, it often affects the entire lower face. Braces correct this by restoring proper relationships between your teeth, bones, and muscles.
Personalized Care from Trusted Orthodontists in Kelowna
At Mission Creek Orthodontics, we understand that every patient’s facial structure, bite, and orthodontic needs are unique. That’s why we offer:
- Comprehensive consultations using 3D imaging and bite analysis
- Custom treatment plans tailored for children, teens, and adults
- Advanced appliances, including clear aligners and self-ligating braces
- Guidance on how orthodontics will affect your smile and facial balance
Our clinic is proud to serve the Kelowna community with trusted, patient-first orthodontic care focused on long-term results and overall facial harmony.
Discover How Braces Can Reshape Your Smile—and More
Braces do more than straighten teeth. They play a vital role in aligning the jaw, improving facial proportions, and enhancing both function and appearance. Whether you’re seeking treatment for your child, teen, or yourself, the team at Mission Creek Orthodontics is here to guide you every step of the way.
Book your consultation today to find out how modern orthodontics can transform your smile—and support your facial structure for years to come.
