Mid face "collapses" when mouth is completely closed. Can anything be done? (Photos)

Question

Hello. I'm a 27 year old woman and as far back as I can remember I have wedged the tip of my tongue between my front teeth to prevent a "collapsed" look in photos. When my mouth is slightly open internally it produces an attractive jaw line/larger lip look. When I shut my mouth all the way i have a short chin, thin lips, and slight pressure in my jaw. I also grind my teeth at night. Is there anything I can do to look like myself on the left without having to posture my face?

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

What you are describing and showing in your pictures is consistent with a vertical maxillary deficiency....which is why your lower face shortens in centric occlusion. (put your teeth together) This is really only corrected by a maxillary lengthening procedure which may or may not be possible given your current occlusion and tooth show at rest and smiling. But by lengthening your maxilla, you lower the occlusal plane which will keep your lower jaw from over rotating. The first step is to get an orthodontic evaluation and planning x-rays.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

A full set of facial photographs from all angles, especially the side profile are required to make a determination about being a candidate for a chin implant procedure.  For more information about chin implants and many before and after examples, please see the link and the video below

Mid face "collapses" when mouth is completely closed. Can anything be done? (Photos)

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