Invisalign has not made much difference for a recessed chin and jawline. What is the best solution? (Photo)

Question

I am currently on week 23 of Invisalign trays, and I got them hoping to relieve some a TMJ jaw pains and headaches, but also to fix my bite and my facial structure. I don’t think the Invisalign has made a difference in my weak jaw and chin, and if so it’s much less of a change than I was hoping for. I was wondering what would be the best solution to get a more even, defined jawline.

Ira Shapira, DDS · Answer

You have a narrow maxilla  (upper jaw) with a six tooth smile.   Invisalign moves teeth but not not grow the maxilla.  I strongly suggest looking into the DNA Appliance (possible RNA version) to expand your maxilla and cheek bones while growing your airway.  The RNA is used for treating sleep apnea and is very effective at advancing the mandible and chin.This will create a healthy 10-12 tooth smile with room for your lower jaw to advance.Ideally combine treatment with Neuromuscular Dentistry to eliminate the TMJ SymptomsIra L Shapira DDS, D,ABDSM, D,AAPM, FICCMOPast Chair, Alliance of TMD OrganizationsDiplomat,  Academy of Integrative Pain ManagementDiplomate, American Board of Dental Sleep MedicineDiplomate, American Board Sleep and BreathingRegent, Master & Fellow, International College of CranioMandibular OrthopedicsBoard Eligible, American Academy of CranioFacial PainDental Section Editor, Sleep & Health JournalMember Cranio Editorial Board, Journal of Craniomandibular and Sleep PracticeMember, American Equilibration SocietyMember, Academy of Applied Myofunctional SciencesMember, Academy of Cosmetic DentistryLife Member, American Dental Association

John McDonald, DMD · Answer

To change your facial structure you must change the bones that make up your face shape.  To do that requires surgery or some other procedure to affect the underlying shape of your face (like implants)Some degree of facial change is possible in growing children, but it appears you are past that point.  The only part of your face affected by any type or orthodontic treatment is your lips.  This is because your lips rest on your teeth.   The lips are only really changed if the teeth are moved back,  like to correct an overbite.  This is the type of facial change you read about on the internet, ie people with big overbites or very protrusive teeth.Talk to your orthodontist if you are interested in facial change.  There are some minimally invasive "surgeries"  that could make a big difference for you.  Google "genioplasty" for some examples.BTW There is no "appliance" that can change face shape in a non growing patient, despite what some non orthodontists may claim.

Invisalign has not made much difference for a recessed chin and jawline. What is the best solution? (Photo)

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Invisalign has not made much difference for a recessed chin and jawline. What is the best solution? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Invisalign

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