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I am worried about the development of my lower jaw.Please help.

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Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

  • I have a question about the normal development of facial structure of a male going through puberty.
  • I am 17 years old, my height is 5'7" and I weigh 119 pounds. My diet is normal.
  • I am very frail in stature but, that is not what I am worried about.
  • I am worried about the development of my lower jaw.
  • It seems extremely small for my face and to me it seems like a problem.
  • That is not only a very unattractive feature, but also seems unhealthy in a way.
  • I had braces for a year and a half but, that did nothing.
  • I am not sure if it is genetic or if it is a disease but, my jaw seems to be to small for the structure of my face.
  • I am in deep need of help to further understand why is this happening as I grow and I was wondering if I could do anything to fix it without surgery.
  • I feel like it is a problem and it is a flaw and I have been wondering this question for quite a while.

The sources I read lack information and contain uncertainties. Please explain.

Answered by Dr. Naveen Thomas

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

  • Your lower jaw (mandible) might be small due to various reasons.
  • Sometimes, genetic inheritance also can be a reason.
  • By your description it seems you have deficient mandible. 
  • In childhood, use of headgear (an extraoral orthodontic appliance) would have done you loads of good.
  • Deficient mandible usually can only be corrected by surgery at your age.
  • Surgery can be done aesthetically without any extra oral scars.
  • Post some photos of the facial profile, for a better treatment plan.

Consult a dentist online for further investigations and follow up --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/dentist

Answered by

Dr. Naveen Thomas

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At July 20, 2017
Reviewed AtOctober 9, 2018

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Naveen Thomas

Dr. Naveen Thomas

Dentistry
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