Yes, removing teeth can affect face shape, depending on which teeth are removed.
While not all tooth extractions have the same impact, the removal of certain teeth can lead to changes in facial structure. Let's break it down:
The Impact of Tooth Extraction on Face Shape
Here's a more detailed look at how tooth extraction can affect your facial aesthetics:
- Which teeth matter: According to the reference, while wisdom teeth extraction doesn't affect your smile or face shape, the extraction of other teeth does. The roots of your other teeth form part of the structure of the basal jaw bone or maxilla, which are responsible for the shape of your chin (at the bottom) and the shape of your nose and eye sockets (on the top).
Understanding Bone Structure and Tooth Roots
The teeth and bone of the jaw work together to maintain facial structure. Here's how:
- Bone Density: The jawbone is stimulated by the presence of teeth. When teeth are lost, the bone can resorb, or shrink, over time due to a lack of stimulation.
- Structural Support: Teeth act as scaffolding for the face. They help support the cheeks and lips, maintaining a youthful appearance.
Summary: Tooth Extraction and Facial Changes
| Tooth Type | Impact on Face Shape |
|---|---|
| Wisdom Teeth | Generally, no noticeable impact on face shape. |
| Other Teeth (molars, premolars, canines, incisors) | Can affect face shape, particularly over time, due to bone loss and changes in structural support. |
