Signs Your Facial Asymmetry Might Be Returning — and What to Do

Facial asymmetry returning is a concern many patients notice months or even years after orthodontic or dental treatment. If you feel that one side of your face looks different again, or your smile no longer feels balanced, you are not imagining it. Subtle facial changes can reappear due to bite shifts, muscle habits, or jaw-related issues, and early evaluation is critical.

At Dr Gowds Dental Hospitals, widely recognized as the Best Dental Hospital in Hyderabad, patients frequently visit us with questions about facial balance after braces or aligners. As one of Hyderabad’s leading multi-branch dental hospitals with locations in  Gachibowli, Madhapur, Koti, Nanakramguda, our orthodontic specialists regularly assess and manage facial asymmetry concerns using advanced diagnostics and customized treatment plans.

If you are noticing changes in your facial symmetry, book a consultation with an orthodontist at your nearest Dr Gowds Dental Hospitals branch today.

Understanding Facial Asymmetry Returning

Facial asymmetry refers to unevenness between the left and right sides of the face. While mild asymmetry is natural, noticeable changes after treatment can be unsettling.

Common reasons facial asymmetry returning

• Bite shifts after braces or aligners
• Inconsistent retainer use
• Jaw joint (TMJ) dysfunction
• Muscle imbalance from habits like chewing on one side
• Tooth movement following wisdom tooth removal

Many patients search online for answers like “why does my face look asymmetrical in videos?” or “my face is very asymmetrical after braces.” These concerns often have orthodontic explanations that can be addressed with timely care.

Facial Asymmetry After Braces or Aligners: What’s Happening?

One of the most common concerns we hear is asymmetrical face after braces. Orthodontic treatment aligns teeth, but facial balance depends on multiple factors beyond tooth position.

Possible reasons braces may affect facial symmetry

• Uneven bite correction
• Jaw growth patterns in younger patients
• Muscle adaptation after orthodontic movement
• Retainer non-compliance

Some patients even worry that braces made my face asymmetrical, when in reality, braces often reveal pre-existing asymmetry that was previously masked.

Can Jaw Problems Cause Facial Asymmetry to Come Back?

Yes. Can TMJ cause an asymmetrical face? Absolutely.

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull. When it functions unevenly, it can cause:

• Jaw deviation
• Muscle tightness on one side
• Facial imbalance over time
• Headaches and jaw pain

TMJ-related asymmetry often develops gradually, making it easy to miss until changes become visible in photos or videos.

Everyday Habits That Can Trigger Returning Facial Asymmetry

Not all facial changes are due to dental treatment. Lifestyle and muscle habits play a major role.

Habits linked to facial imbalance

• Chewing on one side consistently
• Sleeping on one side for years
• Poor posture affecting jaw alignment
• Clenching or grinding teeth at night

Facial Changes After Wisdom Tooth Removal

Another overlooked factor is an asymmetrical face after wisdom tooth removal. When wisdom teeth are removed on only one side or healing differs between sides, subtle bite and muscle changes may occur.

This does not mean wisdom tooth removal is harmful, but it reinforces the importance of post-extraction monitoring, especially in patients with a history of orthodontic treatment.

How Orthodontists Diagnose Returning Facial Asymmetry

At Dr Gowds Dental Hospitals, diagnosis goes beyond visual examination.

Advanced evaluation includes

• Digital bite analysis
• 3D dental scans
• Jaw joint assessment
• Smile and facial proportion analysis

This comprehensive approach allows our specialists to determine whether the issue is dental, skeletal, muscular, or habit-related.

What Can Be Done If Facial Asymmetry Is Returning?

Treatment depends on the cause and severity. Options may include:

• Aligner refinement or bite correction
• Retainer modification
• TMJ management protocols
• Habit correction guidance
• Targeted orthodontic adjustments

Early intervention often prevents the need for complex procedures later.

FAQs: Facial Asymmetry Returning

1. Is facial asymmetry normal after braces?

Mild changes can occur, but noticeable asymmetry should be evaluated by an orthodontist.

2. Can braces make your face asymmetrical permanently?

Braces do not usually cause permanent asymmetry. Most issues are due to bite shifts, habits, or TMJ concerns.

3. Which Dr Gowds Dental Hospitals branch should I visit?

You can visit any branch in Gachibowli, Madhapur, Koti, or Nanakramguda for an orthodontic evaluation.

4. Is facial asymmetry painful?

Not always. Some patients experience jaw discomfort, while others notice only visual changes.

5. How long does correction take if asymmetry returns?

Treatment duration depends on the cause. Early-stage corrections are often quicker and less complex.