Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, and one of the first things people remember. It’s an important part of making a first impression and can impact how people perceive you. Do you show your teeth, or do you shy away? A smile says a lot about you.
But there’s something more subtle than your smile that people also remember: your facial symmetry. A degree of facial asymmetry is common for most people. In fact, perfect facial symmetry is very uncommon. Asymmetry of the face can include brow lines, offset nostrils, or even an unaligned jaw shape. Every face is unique. However, some facial asymmetry is more pronounced and may even cause or be a cause of other oral or general health concerns.
At Hamer & Glassick Orthodontics, we know that an asymmetrical face can affect your confidence and overall oral health. We want to help you achieve the ideal smile that will also keep your mouth healthy and happy. In order to help you start your confidence journey, let’s take a look at the ways orthodontic treatment can fix your smile and your confidence.
What are the causes of facial asymmetry?
Once you reach adulthood, you may think your facial structure is permanently set. If you make it to adulthood with a symmetrical face, you think it will stay that way for the rest of your life. This is usually true since your bones are no longer growing. But your cartilage is still growing, and this can alter your facial symmetry as you get older. On top of that, there are other reasons you may find yourself dealing with asymmetry that you may not have thought about. Genetics and aging, such as uneven muscles, accidents, injuries, and infections can also cause asymmetry.
There are also severe health issues that can lead to facial asymmetry. Bell’s Palsy is a viral infection that causes facial paralysis of the muscles on one side of your face. A less common condition is called Torticollis, also known as “twisted neck.” This causes your neck muscles to rest in an abnormal position and result in facial asymmetry. This usually occurs in the womb, and both of these conditions are typically temporary. Other causes can include lifestyle choices such as smoking, sun damage from tanning or overexposure, and certain dental procedures.
What are the effects of facial asymmetry?
Your smile is a big part of what makes you feel attractive, and what makes you attractive to other people. And the symmetry of your face can have an impact on how others see your smile. Studies have even found that humans usually prefer a face that is more symmetrical. But beyond physical attractiveness, facial symmetry can also reveal the state of your health. While nobody has perfect facial symmetry, there are cases where your asymmetry may be more than just a matter of how you look. Facial asymmetry can be problematic for functionality, such as disrupting the way you speak and eat and even causing jaw or head pain.
Facial asymmetry could even be a sign of a much deeper medical issue. In some cases, it’s a symptom or side effect of underlying, maybe even undiagnosed, problems such as sleep apnea or a TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder. These conditions can have a much more dramatic effect on your overall health, with more severe consequences than less-than-stellar aesthetics. And that’s where we come in. At Hamer & Glassick Orthodontics, we’re here to help. Our well-trained team is able to offer personalized care for your smile goals to give you the smile you deserve.
How can orthodontics help?
If you want to seek treatment for facial asymmetry, our team at Hamer & Glassick Orthodontics offers a variety of different solutions. Dr. David B. Hamer and Dr. Andrew Glassick have over sixty years of orthodontic experience. Our doctors are passionate about helping people achieve their ideal smiles. At our office, we have several treatments that can help align your face to your ideal standards:
Metal braces
Traditional metal braces are one of the most common types of orthodontic treatment. The brackets are made of a mix of stainless steel and other high-quality metals, giving them long-lasting durability. Modern metal braces are also lighter and more comfortable compared to bulky, painful braces of years past. They also come with elastic bands that help with bite correction and come in multiple colors so you can add some personality to your treatment.
Clear braces
Also known as “ceramic braces,” clear braces work in the same way metal braces do but with a sleeker, more invisible appearance. While clear braces are about the same size and shape as metal braces, they’re made with tooth-colored, polycrystalline ceramic material and elastic ties. These are also a popular choice for teens and older adults because they provide a less noticeable look. One downside to clear braces is that they are less durable and more prone to damage. They also tend to be pricier than metal braces. Luckily, at Hamer & Glassick, we offer flexible payment plans, automatic bank drafts, and we will also check with your insurance company for orthodontic benefits.
Invisalign
Don’t like brackets and wire? Invisalign retainers have the discreet appearance of clear braces but without wires and metal. They are easily removable and made using photos and X-rays of your mouth taken by our team to make a custom fit for you. To be effective, they will have to be worn twenty-two hours a day. You will likely wear yours for nine to fifteen months depending on your needs and go through several trays throughout your treatment.
Trust Hamer & Glassick Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment is a big step in your journey towards confidence, and we want to be there for you every step of the way. Our well-trained team of orthodontic experts has the experience, skills, and education to give you a beautiful smile with exceptional results you’ll love. Our office offers a warm and welcoming environment with up-to-date technology to give you the best care and treatment possible. We want to meet you and know exactly how we can help you reach your smile goals, so get in touch today to schedule your FREE consultation with Dr. Glassick or Dr. Hamer!