Can Bruxism Affect Appearance of Your Face?

Bruxism is a condition where a person grinds their teeth. While it’s commonly associated with dental issues like worn enamel or jaw pain, bruxism can also impact your facial appearance in surprising ways. Over time, constant grinding can change the way your face looks, affecting everything from muscle structure to the overall shape of your jawline. If you have bruxism, talk to your orthodontist in Norton, OH.

Enlarged Jaw Muscles

One of the most noticeable effects of bruxism is the enlargement of the jaw muscles. These muscles, responsible for chewing, become overworked when you grind your teeth on a chronic basis. This can lead to hypertrophy, where the muscles grow larger over time. The result? A broader, more square-shaped jawline that can change the overall symmetry of your face. For those seeking a softer, more contoured look, this change can be unwelcome.

Shortened Teeth and a Sunken Appearance

Constant grinding wears down the enamel on your teeth, making them shorter. When this happens, the vertical height of your face decreases, which can give your face a sunken or collapsed appearance. This makes the face look older and more fatigued, altering the balance between your lower and upper face.

More Wrinkles

Bruxism doesn’t just affect the muscles and teeth. It can also contribute to premature aging and the development of wrinkles. What happens is, constant tension in the facial muscles can create stress around the mouth and cheeks, leading to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. These changes make the face appear more aged than it really is.

Bruxism most certainly can have a significant impact on the appearance of your face, usually a negative one. But bruxism is also highly treatable. Talk to your Norton, OH orthodontist to learn more.