Can Wisdom Tooth Removal Change Your Face Shape?

Wisdom teeth and facial shape?

Hello Doctor: Recently, I came across childhood photos and noticed that my facial shape is quite different from what it used to be.
I still have all four of my wisdom teeth, although they have been filled due to cavities.
I often hear people say that removing wisdom teeth can somewhat affect facial shape, but it's not definitive.
I would like to ask if removing my decayed wisdom teeth could slightly change my facial shape? (Currently, I have a square face, while my childhood face had softer angles; I hope to return to my childhood facial shape.)

Xiang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/12/30

Dr. Cao Guoqing reply Dentistry

There is a potential impact.

Reply Date: 2009/12/30

More Info

Wisdom tooth removal can indeed have an impact on your facial shape, but the extent of this change varies from person to person. Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are located at the back of your mouth and can sometimes cause crowding or misalignment of other teeth. When they are impacted or decayed, they can contribute to a variety of dental issues, including changes in the overall structure of the jaw and face.

When wisdom teeth are removed, particularly if they are causing crowding, there can be a subtle change in the alignment of your teeth and jaw. This may lead to a slight alteration in your facial appearance. For instance, if the removal of wisdom teeth alleviates crowding, it can create a more harmonious alignment of the remaining teeth, which may enhance the overall aesthetics of your smile and facial profile. However, it is important to note that the primary purpose of wisdom tooth extraction is to prevent dental complications rather than to change facial aesthetics.

In your case, you mentioned that you have a square face and are hoping to return to a more oval shape reminiscent of your childhood. While wisdom tooth removal may contribute to some changes in your facial structure, it is unlikely to dramatically alter the shape of your face. The shape of your face is primarily determined by the underlying bone structure, including the jawline, cheekbones, and forehead. Factors such as genetics, age, and overall body composition also play significant roles in determining facial shape.

If you are looking for more noticeable changes to your facial shape, there are other options to consider. For instance, orthodontic treatment can help align your teeth and jaw, potentially leading to a more oval appearance. Additionally, cosmetic procedures such as buccal fat removal or jawline contouring can provide more significant changes to the shape of your face. However, these procedures come with their own risks and considerations, so it is essential to consult with a qualified oral surgeon or cosmetic surgeon to discuss your goals and the best options for you.

It's also worth mentioning that the perception of facial shape can change over time due to factors such as weight fluctuations, aging, and even changes in hairstyle or makeup. Therefore, while removing wisdom teeth may contribute to some changes, it is just one of many factors that influence your overall facial appearance.

In conclusion, while wisdom tooth removal can lead to some changes in your facial shape, it is unlikely to result in a dramatic transformation. If you are seeking significant changes, it may be beneficial to explore additional orthodontic or cosmetic options. Always consult with a dental or medical professional to discuss your specific concerns and to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your aesthetic goals.

Similar Q&A

Will My Face Shape Change If My Wisdom Tooth Grows Forward?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if the extraction of the lower left second molar, along with the presence of an already partially erupted wisdom tooth, will affect the shape of my face and mouth if the wisdom tooth continues to grow forward.

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: A single crooked tooth may not affect the facial shape or mouth shape, but it can impact occlusion and even the temporomandibular joint. It is advisable to consult an orthodontist to determine if it can be repositioned to replace the second molar!

Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Make Your Chin Look Longer?

Because my wisdom teeth are growing in crooked, the doctor advised me to have them removed. However, my chin is already long, and I’ve heard that some celebrities have their wisdom teeth removed to slim their faces. Will removing them make my already long chin look even longer?

Dr. Chu Boqin reply Dentistry
Hello, regarding wisdom teeth: They typically emerge around the age of 20, at which point growth and development are nearing completion. The jawbone will not increase in size or length anymore, and the cheeks may appear smaller due to the teeth protruding towards the buccal side,...

Does Wisdom Tooth Extraction Affect Your Facial Appearance?

I have two upper wisdom teeth that have started to emerge, but the upper left wisdom tooth is causing some discomfort while eating. Doctor, should I remove both upper wisdom teeth at once, or just the upper left one? The most important question is whether removing the wisdom teet...

Dr. Wu Jinjun reply Dentistry
Hello Andy: 1. Usually, one side is extracted first before the other, otherwise both sides will have wounds, making it uncomfortable and troublesome to eat. 2. The differences among most people are not significant, and the appearance of the facial shape is often not affected.

Will Teeth Braces Change My Facial Appearance?

Hello, doctor. I am a third-year junior high school student, and I plan to get braces after graduation. I would like to ask if my facial features will change after orthodontic treatment. My teeth are impacted, so my left cheek is more prominent.

Dr. Yang Hui reply Dentistry
Changes in the cheeks may require plastic surgery. Generally speaking, orthodontics can improve the shape of the upper or lower jaw, and it may also enhance the appearance of the lips, particularly if the teeth are causing the lips to protrude. Additionally, there is a situation ...