Dear Lynn,
Many of my patients have asked me that question too, so rest assured, you’re not the only one wondering about it.
In terms of creating a V-shaped face with a sharper chin, this is usually the illusion created as a result of moving the teeth inwards with orthodontic treatment.
Most of our Asian patients have protrusive teeth, where the teeth are flared outwards and push the lips forward, making them very prominent. Crooked teeth with outwardly placed upper canine teeth (aka vampire teeth) can also cause the upper lip to be raised and appear full. A full lip appearance tends to make the face look rounded, whereas after orthodontic treatment, the teeth are straightened and moved inwards to give a flatter and more pleasing lip profile, this in turn makes the face look slimmer. I do agree with Dr Sylvia, some patients lose weight along the way too! 🙂
Orthodontic treatment only moves the teeth and the limited amount of bone surrounding the teeth. We would give the plastic surgeons a run for their money if we could move the jaw and create more V-shaped faces, unfortunately, that is not something braces can do as those kind of procedures involves changing the shape and position of the jaw bones which only surgery can do.
With regards to your crossbite, the location and it’s relationship to the rest of your bite, as well as your jaw relationship will determine how much it can change your profile. It would be advisable to visit an orthodontist for a detailed assessment so that they can advise you better and more accurately.
All the best!
