How can I fix my weak chin and slightly crooked teeth? (Photos)

Question

Looking to fix weak chin/jaw (possible overbite?) and slightly crooked teeth. Will braces solve my problem or do I require jaw/chin surgery? I find my weak chin less noticeable while smiling but definitely noticeable at rest and in comparison to the rest of my face/forehead. I’m not sure if I have an overbite but I do experience jaw pain and weakened enamel.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Fixing both your teeth and chin would require braces and a lower jaw surgery with a possible sliding genioplasty to move the chin slightly forward.  I will detail the the genioplasty (chin) procedure below.A genioplasty will provide you a natural result because I use your own tissue (bone) to improve your profile. For over 26 years I have performed sliding genioplasties and in my opinion it is the most natural and stable form of chin enhancement. A sliding genioplasty IS VERSATILE.  This technique can be use increase the prominence of the chin, decrease the prominence of the chin and it even can be used to correct asymmetries.  Chin enhancement can be performed using soft solid medical grade silicone implants.  This technique is a good technique but lacks the versatility of a sliding genioplasty.  A chin implant can ONLY be used to increase the prominence of the chin.
    The procedure is performed as an outpatient procedure. General anesthetic is required. The procedure typically consists of improving the chin position and contour through an incision inside the mouth . This incision is completely hidden.  This allows access to the bony chin.  An incision (osteotomy) is made in the bony chin to separate it from the lower jaw.  This segment of chin can be positioned as needed (forward, backward and/or to the left or right) to produce the desired result.  The chin is fixed in its new position with either titanium screws or stainless steel wires.  The metals are very kind to the body.  The incision is carefully closed to reposition the muscle of the chin and lower lip with dissolvable stitches.  Very light compression tape is placed to help manage swelling.  A sliding genioplasty can be performed with liposuction of neck to further enhance contour and profile.  A liquid diet is required for 48 hours then a soft diet is recommended for 10 days.  Typically, the first appointment after surgery is typically in 48-72 hours.
     Remember if you're considering chin enhancement it is always wise to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon that has experience with maxillofacial surgery techniques.  Best wishes.

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

Chin augmentation can be done to improve your weak chin. But changing your teeth alignment will require orthodontics which can be done whether you have chin augmentation or not.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Orthodontic braces can accomplish straightening the teeth.  If they are are significantly out alignment, make an appointment with an oral surgeon to discuss a sliding genioplasty procedure.  This procedure involves making cuts in the mandible bone and setting it forward for functional and cosmetic purposes.  This procedure is performed under general anesthesia in the hospital setting with an overnight stay, since it is rather invasive.  If you are only looking to perform a cosmetic enhancement of the chin, then consider a chin implant procedure which is performed under local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure which takes approximately 30 minutes.  In our practice, we place the chin implants  through a small incision underneath the chin.  For many examples of chin implants, please see  the link and of the video below

How can I fix my weak chin and slightly crooked teeth? (Photos)

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