Yes, an overbite can definitely change the shape of your face.
How Overbite Affects Face Shape:
- Jaw Position: An overbite means your upper front teeth significantly overlap your lower front teeth. This often indicates an imbalance in your jaw structure, with the upper jaw being more prominent than the lower jaw.
- Facial Profile: The altered jaw position can affect your facial profile, making it appear more protruding or elongated.
- Lip Appearance: Overbites can also affect the appearance of your lips. The upper lip might appear thicker or more prominent, while the lower lip might appear thinner or recessed.
- Chin Shape: The lower jaw's position can impact the chin's appearance. An overbite might make your chin appear smaller or recessed.
Examples:
- Class II Malocclusion: This is a common type of overbite where the upper jaw is more prominent than the lower jaw. This can lead to a more protruding profile and a smaller chin.
- Deep Overbite: This is an extreme form of overbite where the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth. This can result in a more elongated face and a recessed lower jaw.
Solutions:
- Orthodontic Treatment: Braces or clear aligners can help correct an overbite and improve facial balance.
- Jaw Surgery: In some cases, jaw surgery might be necessary to correct severe overbites and reshape the jaw structure.
