Can orthodontic treatment improve an asymmetrical face (uneven facial sides)?

Oct 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

In general, whether orthodontic treatment can improve facial asymmetry (uneven face size) depends on the underlying cause. If the asymmetry is caused by abnormal tooth occlusion, orthodontics can usually help improve it. However, if the asymmetry results from uneven skeletal development or facial muscle imbalance, orthodontic treatment is unlikely to produce significant improvement. During orthodontic treatment, it's important to consistently use both sides of the teeth for chewing and avoid favoring one side, which could worsen facial asymmetry.

In general, whether orthodontic treatment can improve facial asymmetry (commonly known as "uneven face" or "one side of the face larger than the other") depends on the underlying cause. If the asymmetry is caused by abnormal tooth alignment or bite issues, orthodontics can usually help improve it. However, if the asymmetry results from uneven skeletal development or facial muscle imbalance, orthodontic treatment alone is unlikely to produce significant improvement. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If facial asymmetry is caused by dental problems—such as unilateral crossbite, misaligned bite, or long-term chewing on one side leading to imbalanced development of facial muscles, or crooked teeth affecting facial contours—orthodontic treatment can correct the bite relationship and restore normal chewing habits. This gradually improves facial muscle symmetry and alleviates the appearance of an uneven face.

When facial asymmetry is due to skeletal discrepancies or muscular factors, orthodontics can only adjust tooth positions and cannot alter bone structure or muscle volume, thus offering limited improvement. In such cases, additional treatments like orthognathic surgery or facial muscle exercises may be required.

During orthodontic treatment, it's important to consistently chew evenly on both sides of the mouth to avoid worsening facial asymmetry through one-sided chewing. Additionally, maintain excellent oral hygiene by using tools such as water flossers and dental floss to clean between teeth, attend regular check-ups, and follow your dentist’s or orthodontist’s adjustments to ensure optimal treatment outcomes.

View All

What are the steps involved in the orthodontic treatment process?

In general, the orthodontic treatment process includes initial examination and diagnosis, development of an orthodontic plan, wearing orthodontic appliances, regular follow-up visits, and removal of the appliances. It is recommended to eat more vegetables and fruits to obtain sufficient vitamins and proteins, which can help reduce the occurrence of oral ulcers and angular cheilitis. At the same time, it is important to avoid excessive intake of high-sugar foods and beverages to prevent dental caries.

View Full Answer

How long after periodontitis treatment can orthodontic treatment begin?

In general, orthodontic treatment can begin 1 to 3 months after periodontitis therapy, but the exact timing should be determined based on the severity of periodontitis and the individual's recovery progress. If periodontitis is mild, with only symptoms such as gingival redness and swelling and minimal dental calculus, and if gingival inflammation resolves quickly after basic treatment and the oral environment becomes stable, orthodontic suitability can typically be evaluated around one month after treatment.

View Full Answer

Can gum recession be corrected by straightening teeth?

In general, whether orthodontic treatment is possible with gingival recession depends on the severity and control of the condition. Orthodontic treatment may proceed if the gum recession is mild and inflammation is under control. However, if the recession is severe or the inflammation remains unstable, orthodontics should be postponed until the gum problems are properly treated. Daily oral hygiene practices, including brushing teeth morning and evening, using dental floss to clean between teeth, and regular periodontal checkups and maintenance, are essential.

View Full Answer

Can protruding teeth be corrected at age 45?

Whether 45-year-old individuals with protruding teeth can undergo orthodontic treatment depends on their oral health condition. Orthodontic correction is possible for those with good oral health and no severe periodontal issues. However, if serious periodontal disease, alveolar bone loss, or loose teeth are present, orthodontic treatment is not advisable until underlying oral conditions are properly treated. During orthodontic treatment, special attention must be paid to oral hygiene, and tools such as water flossers and dental floss should be used to clean between teeth thoroughly.