Your face plays a big role in your confidence. It’s the first thing people notice about you and can affect how they perceive you, and more importantly, how you perceive yourself. A big part of this begins with your smile and jaw. There is a lot of evidence that shows that orthodontic treatment can address issues like facial asymmetry. At Central Massachusetts Orthodontics, we want you to move through your life with confidence. Let’s examine what facial asymmetry is and how our team of orthodontics could help to remedy it.
What are the causes of facial asymmetry?
When you reach adulthood, you may believe your facial structure is permanently set. This is usually true since your bones are no longer growing as when you were younger. But your cartilage is still growing, and this can alter your facial symmetry as you get older. Alongside this, 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 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 face plays a big role in what makes you feel attractive, and what makes you attractive to other people. The symmetry of your face can also 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 much deeper medical issues. In some cases, it’s a symptom or side effect of underlying, perhaps even undiagnosed, problems such as sleep apnea or a TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder. These conditions can have a much more damaging effect on your overall health, with more severe consequences than less-than-stellar aesthetics. And that’s where we come in. Central Massachusetts Orthodontics is 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, Central Massachusetts Orthodontics offers a variety of different solutions. Our office of experienced orthodontists is passionate about helping people achieve the kind of smile they deserve. 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 and widely recognized types of orthodontic appliances. 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 the past. They also come with elastic bands that help with bite correction and come in multiple colors so you can add some fun personality to your treatment.
Metal 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. Because of their most discreet appearance, clear braces tend to be a popular choice amongst adults and older teens. The only downside to clear 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. They can also be pricier, but luckily, we offer flexible payment plans, automatic bank drafts, and we will also check with your insurance company for orthodontic benefits. Our treatment coordinators will be happy to go over the cost with you at your first consultation.
Invisalign
Don’t want the hassle of 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. Much like clear braces, this nearly invisible aesthetic is a popular choice for older orthodontic patients. To be effective, they will have to be worn twenty-two hours a day. Most patients wear theirs for nine to fifteen months depending on their needs and go through several trays throughout their treatment.
Get the confidence you deserve at Central Massachusetts Orthodontics
There are a wealth of benefits to orthodontic treatment, and we want you to enjoy every one of them. At Central Massachusetts Orthodontics, our team of eager and well-trained orthodontists wants to provide you with a safe, informed treatment experience. During your evaluation, Dr. Livanos and Dr. Giarrusso will create a personalized treatment plan based on your unique needs and smile goals.
If you or someone you love wants to discover the benefits of orthodontic treatment, our team would love to meet you both at our offices. We have three conveniently located offices in Worcester, Auburn, and Spencer. Get in touch today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Livanos, Dr. Giarrusso, and the team. Let’s work together to create a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles for your child!