
iblamethebrain
Maxillofacial Surgical Assistant
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Understanding Counter-Clockwise (CCW) Craniofacial Growth
Who is this for?
Late adolescents and young adults (~16–22 years old) looking to improve their facial aesthetics, airway function, and also overall health without resorting to invasive surgery or cosmetic fillers (don't do that, stick to softmaxxing). You’ll find detailed explanations about skeletal remodeling, soft-tissue adaptation, muscle hypertrophy, and natural oral and facial posture techniques. This Guide is also designed to be very beginner friendly. For all the geeks i've got you covered with the sources.
Why this guide?
This site or the PSL community in general is flooded with misinformation, exaggerated claims, and confusion about what's realistically achievable (tbh it's about 99% of whats posted here). This here cuts through the noise—providing thoroughly researched, peer-reviewed evidence combined with practical application tips. My aim is to offer clarity and genuine value. This Guide touches new profound, real methods and also reevaluates some old jargon. I've been lurking for some time now and researched heavily and this is by far the most important aspect of healthmaxxing. Looks is just the inevitable byproduct which I want to share here.
Lets start.
Counter-clockwise (CCW) craniofacial growth refers to a growth pattern where the jaws rotate upward and forward, as opposed to downward and backward (clockwise rotation). Skeletally, CCW rotation means the lower jaw (mandible) closes upward toward the upper jaw (maxilla) and moves forward in profile. This rotation is often associated with a shorter, more forward-grown face rather than a long, downward-grown face. In orthodontics, individuals with strong forward growth (sometimes called brachyfacial or low-angle types) exhibit a degree of natural CCW rotation, whereas dolichofacial (long-face, high-angle) types have more clockwise growth patterns (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC) (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC).
Visual and Functional Impacts: When the facial skeleton rotates CCW, the jawline tends to become more defined – the chin (pogonion) moves up and forward, and the jaw angle becomes more square. The face usually appears less elongated, with improved facial harmony. One clinical review notes that intruding the back teeth (simulating a CCW rotation) can “result in a counterclockwise rotation of the mandible, closure of the anterior open-bite, and forward and upward displacement of B-point and pogonion”, effectively bringing a retruded chin forward into a more ideal profile (Treatment and retention of relapsed anterior open-bite with low tongue posture and tongue-tie: A 10-year follow-up - PMC). In practical terms, CCW growth often means a stronger jawline, better chin projection, and a reduction in “long-face” characteristics.
Functionally, forward rotation of the jaws can improve the airway and bite. Bringing the maxilla and mandible forward opens up space behind the tongue and soft palate. Surgical jaw advancements with CCW rotation have been shown to significantly enlarge the airway volume in adults (Airway space changes after maxillomandibular counterclockwise rotation and mandibular advancement with TMJ Concepts® total joint prostheses: three-dimensional assessment - PubMed). For example, one study found that counter-clockwise rotation combined with jaw advancement increased airway volume by ~6,300 mm³ on average in treated patients (Airway space changes after maxillomandibular counterclockwise rotation and mandibular advancement with TMJ Concepts® total joint prostheses: three-dimensional assessment - PubMed). Clinicians have observed that “advancing the maxilla and mandible in a counter-clockwise direction… significantly opens up the oropharyngeal airway” and typically yields the best facial aesthetic balance at the same time (Proven Orthognathic Surgery Evaluation). In contrast, a downward (clockwise) growth rotation is associated with a narrower airway and often a weaker chin. Thus, CCW craniofacial growth is generally considered favorable for both appearance and functions like breathing and chewing.
Mechanisms of Skeletal Remodeling in Late Adolescence
By late adolescence (approximately age 16–22), the major growth spurts of childhood and puberty have tapered off. The growth plates of the jawbones (mandibular condyles and maxillary sutures) are starting to close around this period, especially in females a bit earlier and in males slightly later. However, bone is a living tissue that continues to remodel throughout life, responding to mechanical stresses and muscle forces – a concept described by Wolff’s Law. Wolff’s Law states that bone will adapt to the loads placed upon it; increased mechanical stress leads to bone apposition and strengthening, while lack of stress can lead to bone resorption (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC) (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC). In essence, even after the growth plates close, bones can undergo adaptive remodeling (change in shape or density) in response to persistent forces.
Mechanotransduction: When we apply force to a bone (for example, through muscle action or pressure), cells within the bone called osteocytes sense the mechanical strain. These cells orchestrate remodeling by coordinating osteoblasts (which form new bone) and osteoclasts (which resorb bone) (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC) (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC). Research shows that mechanical loading reduces the release of sclerostin (an inhibitor of bone formation) and increases growth factors like IGF-1 in osteocytes, tipping the balance toward bone formation (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC). This is the same principle by which orthodontic treatment moves teeth at any age: sustained pressure causes the jaw’s alveolar bone to resorb on the pressure side and rebuild on the tension side.
Importantly, the jawbones are influenced by the surrounding muscles and functions. During growth, children with strong chewing muscles and proper oral posture tend to develop a more forward (CCW) rotation of the jaws, whereas those with weak muscle function or chronic mouth breathing often show downward (clockwise) growth (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC) (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC). Animal experiments support this: for instance, rats or monkeys raised on soft diets (minimal chewing requirement) develop longer, narrower jaws, while those with hard diets develop more robust, shorter jaws. A 2019 study in mice demonstrated that increasing the chewing demand led to adaptive changes in the mandible – including thickening of areas where the masseter muscle attaches and a slight shortening of the jaw’s vertical dimension (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC) (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC). These changes were accompanied by molecular signs of bone formation (increased IGF-1, decreased sclerostin in jaw osteocytes) in response to the higher muscle forces (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC).
By late adolescence, the capacity for major skeletal change is lower than in childhood, but not zero. Minor changes in shape, bone density, and muscle attachment areas can still occur with consistent stimulus:
- The maxilla (upper jaw): The mid-palatal suture (which allows the palate to widen) is starting to fuse in late teens. It might not separate easily without orthodontic devices, but slow natural expansion or remodeling of the dental arches by a millimeter or two could be possible if gentle pressure (e.g. from the tongue) is applied consistently over time. The surrounding alveolar bone can bend or remodel slightly to accommodate tooth movements or postural forces.
- The mandible (lower jaw): While linear growth in length is nearly complete by ~18 for most, the mandible’s shape can still remodel. For example, the chin region can appose a bit more bone (especially in males, some late chin growth is common), and the angle of the mandible can change with muscle hypertrophy. Continuous forces (like gentle forward posturing or strong muscle pulls) might encourage a slight forward positioning or density increase. Wolff’s law suggests that if you regularly exert force that “encourages” a forward rotation (such as keeping molar contact light and using the jaw muscles differently), the bone will remodel to support that new equilibrium – albeit slowly.
- The soft tissues and muscles: Muscle can definitely change in late adolescence. Muscles hypertrophy (grow larger) with exercise, which can in turn affect appearance and how forces are applied to bone. For instance, strengthening the tongue or chewing muscles can increase the resting pressure they exert on the palate or jaw, potentially influencing bone over time. Conversely, improving posture of the head and neck can change how gravity and muscle tension load the facial skeleton.
In summary, biological mechanisms like bone functional adaptation (Wolff’s Law) and muscle-bone interactions underlie the idea of “softmaxxing” – using natural, functional stimuli to induce subtle changes. While dramatic craniofacial growth changes are not typical after puberty without surgery, the right stimuli can guide minor skeletal remodeling and soft tissue adaptation. The following sections discuss evidence-based techniques that leverage these principles to promote CCW rotation and forward development in late adolescents.
Non-Surgical Techniques to Encourage CCW Growth
Below are several natural or non-surgical methods often proposed to enhance forward facial growth and jaw development. These techniques aim to improve tongue posture, muscle tone, and breathing habits to subtly influence bone remodeling and facial structure. It’s important to keep expectations realistic – changes will be gradual and modest – but consistent practice may yield improvements in function and slight cosmetic enhancements over time. Each method is explained with its rationale and what scientific evidence (if any) supports its efficacy.
Proper Tongue Posture
What it is: Tongue posture refers to how the tongue rests in the mouth at rest. “Mewing” is the popular term for the practice of keeping the tongue fully pressed against the roof of the mouth (hard palate) with lips sealed and teeth lightly touching. The idea, promoted by Dr. John Mew, is that this proper oral posture will encourage the maxilla to develop forward and wide (counter-clockwise relative to the mandible) and prevent the jaw from dropping downward. Essentially, the tongue acts as a natural expander and support for the upper jaw.
Skeletal impact: In theory, a correctly positioned tongue provides a constant gentle force on the palate and maxillary dental arch. Over time, this could widen the upper jaw and orient growth forward rather than downward. During childhood, the tongue’s pressure is indeed crucial – studies have long shown that chronic mouth-breathing (low tongue posture) is associated with narrower arches, longer faces, and retruded chins (Effects of nasal obstruction on facial development - PubMed) (Effects of nasal obstruction on facial development - PubMed). In one review, mouth-breathing children had “longer, narrower faces and retrognathic (set-back) jaws” compared to nasal breathers (Effects of nasal obstruction on facial development - PubMed). This suggests that proper tongue posture and nasal breathing correlate with more forward, horizontal growth. By late adolescence, much of the palatal width is already established, but maintaining the tongue on the palate may help preserve arch width, prevent further vertical elongation, and even encourage a small amount of expansion via remodeling of alveolar bone.
Evidence: While the anecdotal before-and-after cases of mewing online are dramatic, scientific evidence is limited and cautious. The American Association of Orthodontists notes that “simply changing tongue placement isn’t enough to magically reshape your jawline” and that claims of mewing are not backed by robust research (Ask an Orthodontist: Does Mewing Work? | American Association of Orthodontists). They warn that forcing your tongue unnaturally can even disrupt teeth alignment if done incorrectly (Ask an Orthodontist: Does Mewing Work? | American Association of Orthodontists). On the other hand, clinicians do acknowledge that tongue posture does play a role in dental arch stability and orofacial function. Proper tongue posture is an element of myofunctional therapy (discussed below) used to maintain orthodontic results. In late adolescence, tongue exercises and posture correction can help with subtle improvements: for example, a case report of open bite correction used tongue posture training to stabilize the bite after molar intrusion, contributing to an upward rotation of the mandible (Treatment and retention of relapsed anterior open-bite with low tongue posture and tongue-tie: A 10-year follow-up - PMC) (Treatment and retention of relapsed anterior open-bite with low tongue posture and tongue-tie: A 10-year follow-up - PMC). Additionally, if any widening of the upper arch is to be achieved naturally at this age, a correctly postured tongue is a key component providing the needed outward pressure.
How to do it: The proper technique involves resting the whole tongue against the palate (not just the tip). The tip of the tongue should sit just behind the front teeth (at the incisive papilla), and the posterior third of the tongue should press up on the back part of the palate. Lips remain closed (nasal breathing) and teeth either in light contact or slightly apart. Over time, this posture becomes subconscious. Some proponents recommend specific mewing exercises like suction-hold (sucking the tongue up to create a vacuum) to reinforce the posture. It’s crucial to keep the tongue pressure gentle but consistent – heavy force is not necessary and could be counterproductive.
Expected changes: If an adolescent previously had poor tongue posture (e.g. low-resting tongue, mouth-breathing), correcting it can prevent further downward rotation and might allow a mild upward/forward rotation. You might see a slightly higher palate with more definition, improved nasal breathing ability, and stabilization of dental alignment. Any actual transverse expansion (increase in width) or forward push of the maxilla from mewing alone would likely be on the order of 1-2 mm over many months, if it occurs at all, based on clinician observations. Dramatic midface changes purely from mewing in late teens are unlikely – it’s more about optimizing what growth potential remains and improving soft tissue support (for instance, a well-postured tongue can make the jawline look tighter by lifting beneath the chin, even if bones haven’t moved much). In summary, practicing proper tongue posture is beneficial for oral function and may contribute to slight arch changes, but it should be combined with other habits for noticeable results.
Chewing and Jaw Muscle Exercises
What it is: This approach involves strengthening the chewing muscles (mainly the masseter and temporalis) by engaging in more rigorous mastication. Examples include chewing gum (especially harder masticatory gum designed for jaw exercise), eating tough foods that require lots of chewing (e.g. dried meats, raw vegetables), or using devices like jaw exercisers. The goal is to apply increased mechanical load to the jaws in hopes of stimulating bone remodeling (per Wolff’s law) and muscle hypertrophy.
Mechanism: More forceful and frequent chewing increases the strain on the jawbone where muscles attach and on the teeth/periodontal ligament. The body responds by reinforcing those areas. In growing individuals, higher masticatory forces are associated with a shorter, broader facial structure (i.e. more CCW growth). Research confirms a link between chewing strength and facial type: strong chewers tend to have a brachyfacial (short-faced) pattern, whereas low muscle force is linked to a dolichofacial (long-faced) pattern (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC) (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC). Animal studies provide compelling evidence. In one study, mice fed a hard diet that required vigorous chewing developed a stouter mandible: the mandibular ridge where the masseter attaches became more pronounced and the vertical height of the jaw was slightly less than in soft-diet mice (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC) (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC). The increased loading led to cellular signs of bone formation in the jaw (Forceful mastication activates osteocytes and builds a stout jawbone - PMC). Similarly, humans who regularly clench or chew gum often develop enlarged masseter muscles and sometimes a more squared jaw angle. Masseter hypertrophy (enlargement) is a well-documented phenomenon – dentists note it can result in a visibly wider jaw outline (a “square face” look) when the muscle is enlarged (Masseter Muscle Hypertrophy: To Chew or Not To Chew?). This is essentially a muscle adaptation that can accentuate the jaw’s appearance.

(Masseter Muscle Hypertrophy: To Chew or Not To Chew?) Illustration of the masseter muscle (shown in red) on the side of the jaw. Consistent chewing exercises can hypertrophy this muscle, contributing to a more defined, square jaw angle.
Evidence and safety: Chewing exercises do improve muscle function. A small study in 2018 found that daily gum chewing led to stronger bite performance (better force distribution) in adults (Does Chewing Gum Help Your Jawline? Facts and Myths). However, visible structural changes are less certain. According to a Healthline review, chewing gum or using devices may give facial muscles a workout “but they’re unlikely to create visible changes to your jawline” (Does Chewing Gum Help Your Jawline? Facts and Myths). The reason is that most chewing muscles are in the cheeks and temple, and while the masseter does grow with heavy use, it may take extreme regimens (chewing several hours a day for years) to see a big difference. That said, there are plenty of anecdotal reports of modest improvements: after months of chewing tough gum like mastic gum for 1-2 hours daily, individuals report sharper jaw muscle definition. Orthodontically, increased chewing can aid tooth eruption and jaw function but doesn’t replace formal treatment. One caveat: overdoing chewing can cause harm. Excessive gum chewing or clenching can strain the TMJ (jaw joint), leading to pain, clicking, or headaches (Does Chewing Gum Help Your Jawline? Facts and Myths). Moderation is key – e.g. doing chewing exercises for 10-20 minutes a day and gradually increasing, rather than incessant chewing all day.
Expected changes: Over time (several months to a year), you might observe:
- Muscle changes: The masseter and perhaps the temporalis muscles become thicker and stronger. This can slightly increase the bizygomatic width and the width of the lower face when clenching. In people with low muscle tone to start, this can noticeably improve the jaw angle’s definition. The masseter muscle hypertrophy could add a couple millimeters of bulk on each side of the jaw angles, giving a stronger jawline contour. This is essentially a soft tissue change (muscle growth) rather than bone, but it contributes to the appearance of a more square, robust jaw.
- Bone remodeling: Direct skeletal changes from chewing are subtle. The mandible might increase in bone density, especially at the sites of muscle attachment (jaw angle). There could be minor dimensional changes: for instance, the jaw angle could remodel to be slightly more flared due to the pull of a stronger masseter. Any actual lengthening or forward movement of the jaw from chewing alone is unlikely. However, if combined with proper posture (keeping teeth lightly together in what's called “functional occlusion”), chewing can help maintain a more forward resting jaw position.
- Functional improvements: Stronger chewing muscles can improve your bite force and make eating easier. There’s also some evidence that good masticatory function stimulates proper jaw growth in younger individuals and maintains jaw joint health.
In summary, chewing exercises are an evidence-supported way to strengthen the jaw muscles and potentially influence jaw structure. They are most effective for enhancing muscle definition (a “gym workout” for the face) and supporting overall jaw health. Any bone changes (e.g. a slightly “stouter” jaw) would require long-term consistent habit. It’s advisable to combine chewing practice with other techniques (tongue posture, etc.), and to avoid excessive strain that could cause TMJ issues (Does Chewing Gum Help Your Jawline? Facts and Myths).
Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT)
What it is: Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy is a program of exercises and behavior modification designed to correct dysfunctional muscle habits of the mouth and face. It often addresses issues like tongue thrust (where the tongue pushes against teeth during swallowing), improper tongue rest position, mouth-breathing, and improper chewing or speech patterns. A trained myofunctional therapist (often a speech-language pathologist or dental professional with OMT training) guides the patient through exercises to strengthen and coordinate the tongue, lip, and facial muscles and establish proper resting postures.
How it promotes CCW growth: OMT targets the underlying functional causes that might contribute to suboptimal jaw growth. For example:
- If a low tongue posture and forward tongue thrust caused an open bite and downward rotation of the jaw, therapy will work to keep the tongue on the palate and eliminate the tongue thrust swallowing pattern. This can allow the bite to close and the mandible to rotate up (CCW). Indeed, closing an anterior open bite through muscle retraining can trigger a favorable CCW rotation of the mandible as the jaw settles into a new closed position (Treatment and retention of relapsed anterior open-bite with low tongue posture and tongue-tie: A 10-year follow-up - PMC).
- If chronic mouth breathing is an issue, OMT includes exercises to achieve lip seal and nasal breathing, which removes one driver of vertical facial growth.
- Myofunctional therapy also improves the coordination and strength of the muscles that support the jaws. For instance, strengthening the tongue and peri-oral muscles can help hold the lower jaw in a better posture. This might not lengthen the jaw, but it can improve its orientation (e.g. reduce a backward functional posture).
Evidence: The evidence for OMT’s skeletal effects is still emerging, but it has proven benefits in related domains. For example, OMT is an accepted adjunct therapy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – it tones the tongue and throat muscles, which can help keep the airway open and even expand the oropharyngeal space slightly. A systematic review found that OMT significantly reduced OSA severity in adults, demonstrating muscles can be retrained for functional benefit (Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A ...). In orthodontics, OMT is often used in children to help stabilize orthodontic results; some case reports show that incorporating myofunctional exercises helps maintain arch expansion and incisor alignment by normalizing the pressure from the tongue and lips. There are reports, for instance, of an adolescent patient with a relapsed open bite who was treated with a combination of orthodontic appliance and OMT: the tongue exercises contributed to the mandible rotating upward/forward and stability of the correction over 10 years (Treatment and retention of relapsed anterior open-bite with low tongue posture and tongue-tie: A 10-year follow-up - PMC) (Treatment and retention of relapsed anterior open-bite with low tongue posture and tongue-tie: A 10-year follow-up - PMC). While controlled trials in late adolescents are limited, these cases suggest OMT can complement skeletal changes initiated by appliances or residual growth.
It’s important to note that OMT alone usually produces dentoalveolar changes more so than big skeletal shifts. A review in The Open Dentistry Journal (2018) notes that late adolescent Class II cases often require a combination of approaches; myofunctional exercises can assist in improving the soft tissue profile and minor dental changes but are not a substitute for orthopedic treatments when large jaw discrepancies exist (Evaluation of the Immediate Dentofacial Changes in Late Adolescent Patients Treated with the Forsus™ FRD - PMC) (Evaluation of the Immediate Dentofacial Changes in Late Adolescent Patients Treated with the Forsus™ FRD - PMC). Nonetheless, if a patient’s poor muscle function is the restricting factor for growth, correcting that function could allow natural growth to express more fully even in late adolescence.
What it involves: After an initial evaluation, therapy might include:
- Tongue exercises: e.g. training the tongue tip to press against the palate spot over and over, doing a swallow technique where you bite on a swallow-trainer and make sure the tongue goes up rather than forward, etc.
- Lip and cheek exercises: to strengthen lip closure (like holding water or a button between the lips, practicing nasal breathing while keeping a lip seal).
- Breathing training: learning diaphragmatic nasal breathing, possibly with resistive devices or taping the mouth gently at night (if recommended by a professional) to reinforce nose breathing.
- Postural training: some therapists also incorporate head and neck posture awareness since a correct head position helps proper tongue posture.
Therapy is typically conducted over months. Compliance (daily exercise at home) is critical for success.
Expected changes: With diligent OMT, a late adolescent can expect:
- Improved dental alignment/bite stability: If there was a slight open bite or flared teeth due to a tongue thrust, these may improve as the tongue no longer pushes forward. The jaw may close more fully, resulting in a small CCW rotation (a few degrees) and better contact of front teeth.
- Slight forward resting jaw position: As the muscles equilibrate, the mandible might start resting slightly more forward/up, especially if previously the jaw was habitually hanging open. This is more of a postural correction than actual new bone growth, but it can improve the facial profile.
- Better airway and muscle tone: Stronger oropharyngeal muscles can help ensure the tongue doesn’t collapse back at night, potentially improving airway space. Some practitioners report that after OMT, patients have a firmer facial musculature, which can aesthetically make the face appear more toned.
OMT is safe and non-invasive, with the main investment being time and effort. For late teens who are motivated, it can be a powerful tool to maximize any latent growth potential and to correct habits that would otherwise counteract the desired CCW changes.
Nasal Breathing and Proper Oral Breathing Habits
What it is: Emphasizing breathing through the nose (rather than the mouth) and maintaining a closed-mouth posture at rest. This overlaps with tongue posture and OMT but deserves special focus because breathing mode has a profound influence on facial growth. Mouth breathing often goes hand-in-hand with low tongue posture and an elongated face.
Impact on growth: Chronic mouth breathing, often due to allergies or nasal obstruction, is known to cause a downward and backward rotation of facial growth. The mechanics are straightforward: when someone breathes through their mouth, the jaw is often slightly open and the tongue is low, which removes the support for the upper jaw and encourages vertical growth. Classic studies (including experiments where animals’ nostrils were obstructed) showed that animals forced to mouth-breathe developed longer faces and narrower arches (Effects of nasal obstruction on facial development - PubMed) (Effects of nasal obstruction on facial development - PubMed). In humans, the term “adenoid facies” describes the open-mouthed, long face appearance of a chronic mouth breather. One review summarized that nasally obstructed children had “longer, narrower faces and retrusive jaws” compared to controls (Effects of nasal obstruction on facial development - PubMed). On the flip side, nasal breathing encourages the lips to stay together and the tongue to stay up, which supports a more forward pattern of growth.
Benefits of nasal breathing: By switching to exclusive nasal breathing:
- The tongue naturally rises to the palate (because when you close your mouth, the tongue has nowhere to go but up), aiding the maxillary arch development as discussed.
- The lower jaw adopts a closed resting position, which is essentially a more CCW rotated posture than a hanging-open mouth. Over time, this can help “imprint” a more upward jaw position.
- Nasal breathing produces nitric oxide in the sinuses and leads to healthier airways, potentially reducing swollen adenoids or tonsils that can impede facial growth.
Evidence: Many orthodontists and ENTs consider correcting mouth breathing in youth a cornerstone of preventing malocclusion. In late adolescence, some damage (like high-arched palate or narrow jaw) from years of mouth breathing may already be done, but improvement is still very useful. Medical literature indicates that even if nasal obstruction is fixed (via surgery or medication), the facial growth trajectory might not fully normalize unless the habitual muscle function changes (Effects of nasal obstruction on facial development - PubMed). Therefore, training oneself to consistently breathe through the nose is critical. There isn’t a direct study measuring “mm of jaw growth from nasal breathing” because it’s usually part of a comprehensive treatment, but logically, a late teen who shifts to nasal breathing can at least stop any remaining vertical compensatory growth. Some patients report improved facial symmetry and jaw comfort after adopting nasal breathing (for example, less gum show or less jaw strain).
How to achieve it: If nasal breathing is difficult due to congestion, addressing the medical cause is step one (treat allergies, use nasal corticosteroid sprays, or even consider turbinate reduction or adenectomy if indicated). Then:
- Practice keeping the lips closed during the day. Reminders like a piece of tape on the lips (not to seal them, but as a tactile cue) or apps that prompt you can help.
- At night, some people use mouth taping (a small strip of tape across the lips) to encourage nasal breathing during sleep. Caution: this should only be done if you are sure your nose is clear enough; consult a doctor if unsure.
- Physical exercises: There are breathing re-training exercises (like those taught in the Buteyko method) that help you adapt to nasal breathing by holding the breath and improving CO₂ tolerance. They can help reduce the “air hunger” feeling and open the nose.
Expected changes: Once nasal breathing is established:
- Improved facial muscle tone: The lips become stronger from being together, and the cheek muscles are not stretched by open-mouth posture. This can tighten the mid-face appearance slightly.
- Stabilization of palate width: The tongue, now resting on the palate, should help ensure the upper arch doesn’t narrow further. It might even assist mild widening over time if previously the tongue was never up.
- Better forward growth of the maxilla: Some research in children indicates that nasal breathers have more forward positioning of the maxilla than mouth breathers. In a late adolescent, you might not grow the maxilla forward significantly at this point, but you can ensure it doesn’t collapse backward. And if any growth potential remains, it will likely follow a more forward vector.
- Airway and health benefits: Breathing through the nose can improve sleep quality and nitric oxide intake, which indirectly could help with growth hormone production (since deep sleep is when HGH is released). That is a speculative but positive side-effect that could support any remaining growth potential.
In summary, converting to nasal breathing is one of the simplest yet most impactful changes one can make for craniofacial health. It sets the stage for all other techniques (since you can’t keep your tongue on your palate if you’re mouth-breathing). While it may not on its own add measurable millimeters to your jaw, it prevents the downward rotations and is essential for any CCW adaptive changes to occur.
Head and Body Posture (Cervical Alignment)
What it is: This involves maintaining proper head and neck posture – essentially, not jutting the head forward or tilting it excessively. Forward head posture (where your chin and head are pushed forward relative to your spine) is common in people who slouch or use electronics frequently. This posture can affect jaw position: typically, a forward head posture is accompanied by the lower jaw being positioned slightly backward and the bite opening, as the head’s orientation alters the relationship of the jaws.
Link to jaw position: The skull and cervical spine are connected, and their alignment influences the jaw. If you imagine someone slumping with head forward, the lower jaw tends to drop down and back (clockwise rotation). Conversely, if someone sits straight with ears aligned over shoulders (head back in a neutral position), the lower jaw can seat upward and forward. A systematic review in 2022 found that an increased cervical spine inclination and an upright head posture were associated with a more posterior (retruded) mandible position (Relationship between Craniocervical Posture and Sagittal Position of the Mandible: A Systematic Review). In plainer terms, certain head postures correlate with the jaw being pushed back. By correcting the posture (bringing the head back over the shoulders and perhaps slightly tucking the chin), you can allow the mandible to come forward to its natural comfortable position. This doesn’t lengthen the jawbone, but it changes its orientation in space (a functional CCW rotation).
Evidence: Several studies over the years have explored the craniocervical posture and craniofacial structure relationship. A classic concept in orthodontics called the “stretching factor” hypothesis suggested that when the head is carried forward, the lower jaw is held down by soft tissue stretch, encouraging a long-face growth pattern. Modern research has yielded mixed results, but many agree there is an association. For instance, one study noted that subjects with a backward-leaning cervical posture tended to have more forward rotation of the jaws (Cranio-cervical posture: a factor in the development and function of ...). Another found that correcting cervical posture in patients led to minor changes in occlusion and jaw position. While posture therapy alone won’t “grow bone,” it can improve jaw function and even TMJ symptoms.
Improving posture:
- Being mindful of ergonomics (especially for students or anyone on a computer) is key. Keep screens at eye level to avoid craning the neck.
- Exercises to strengthen the deep neck flexor muscles (like chin tucks) and shoulder blade squeezes can help pull the head back.
- Alexander Technique or physiotherapy can be useful for ingraining a good head-neck alignment.
- Simply sleeping without a very high pillow (to avoid pushing head forward all night) and standing/sitting tall can gradually align the posture.
Expected changes: With sustained improvement in head posture:
- Jaw alignment: The mandible may start to rest slightly more forward. Many people find that when they stand straight and tuck their chin lightly (as if a string is pulling the top of their head upward), their teeth come together more naturally and the lower jaw doesn’t feel as far back. This is essentially a mild CCW rotation achieved by posture. It could translate to a small improvement in overjet or profile – e.g. perhaps the chin sits a few millimeters forward relative to the neck than before.
- Facial balance: Improved posture can make the jawline more visible (less neck fat compression) and can accentuate the forward growth one has. It might also reduce any tendency toward an open bite that forward head posture can cause.
- Spine-jaw health: There’s a functional benefit in that a neutral head posture reduces strain on the jaw joint and chewing muscles. Some TMJ disorder patients see reduction in pain after posture correction, indicating a healthier jaw position.
It’s worth noting that posture improvements will enhance the appearance of any skeletal changes one manages to achieve. If someone does everything else right but still slouches head-forward, the gains in jaw projection could be masked. Thus, this is a supportive but important aspect of softmaxxing. Realistically, correcting a very poor head posture might change the resting jaw position by perhaps a few millimeters – enough to be noticeable in profile photographs. It’s a “low-hanging fruit” change: free, with added benefits like reduced neck and jaw pain.
Facial Muscle Training Exercises
What it is: These are exercises aimed at toning and strengthening the various muscles of the face – beyond just the chewing muscles. This can include exercises for the lip muscles, chin (mentalis) muscle, cheek muscles (buccinator, zygomaticus), and even the neck (platysma). The idea is that a well-toned facial muscularature will support the facial skin and soft tissue better (improving definition), and in some cases, exert slight forces on bone that could encourage remodeling.
Examples:
- Jawline exercises: e.g. chin raises (repeatedly elevating and protruding the lower lip to work the chin and neck muscles), or resistance exercises where you press a fist under your chin and open your mouth against it.
- Neck curl-ups: lying down and doing mini “crunches” with your neck can strengthen the front neck muscles that help define the jaw-neck angle.
- Facial yoga: exaggerated vowel sounds (to work cheek and chin muscles), smiling exercises, or devices like the “Jawzrsize” or the “Facial-Flex” that provide resistance to facial movements.
- Pao device (a popular Japanese device) where you shake a bar with your mouth which tones cheek and jaw muscles – a study on this showed increased muscle thickness in participants who used it consistently (Effect of a Facial Muscle Exercise Device on Facial Rejuvenation - PMC) (Effect of a Facial Muscle Exercise Device on Facial Rejuvenation - PMC).
There is a concept that increased muscle volume could put slight outward pressure on bone at their attachment sites. For example, bigger buccinator muscles might press outward on the mid-face slightly. However, such effects on bone shape are likely minimal in late adolescence; the bigger benefit is the improved soft tissue drape and posture.
Evidence: Scientific evidence for facial exercises changing bone structure is scarce, but there is evidence for changes in muscle and appearance. A 2018 clinical trial found that an 8-week facial muscle exercise program using a resistance device led to a significant increase in cross-sectional area of facial muscles and a reduction in sagging – effectively a more lifted, defined face (Effect of a Facial Muscle Exercise Device on Facial Rejuvenation - PMC). Notably, the jawline surface distance (a measurement of how slack or tight the jaw outline is) decreased, meaning the jawline became more taut after exercises (Effect of a Facial Muscle Exercise Device on Facial Rejuvenation - PMC). This suggests that facial muscle training can indeed enhance jawline definition, primarily by toning the soft tissue. Another report (case series) on jawline exercises noted only limited evidence that they reduce fat or substantially alter the jaw’s shape (Facial Contouring Through Jaw Exercises: A Report of Two Cases ...), aligning with the understanding that they’re not a substitute for fat loss or skeletal changes, but they do have a role in improving muscle tone and possibly preventing age-related droop.
Expected changes:
- Jawline definition: Stronger neck and jaw muscles can accentuate the angle between the jaw and neck. If one had slight jowls or a double chin due to poor muscle tone, exercise can tighten this area, making the jaw’s border more visible.
- Mild forward pull on chin?: Some theorize that exercises like chin tucks or jaw protrusions against resistance might stimulate the chin bone to remodel slightly forward. While any such effect would be very small, over a long period it might complement other forward changes.
- Lip posture: By strengthening the lip closing muscles, you ensure the mouth stays closed at rest (tying back into nasal breathing). A competent lip seal means less strain on facial muscles and contributes to that upward rotation by keeping the mandible in position.
- Overall facial harmony: Many who practice facial exercises report a fresher, more “lifted” look – cheeks a bit fuller from muscle bulk, eye area more open, etc. For a late adolescent, the differences may be subtle but can enhance facial attractiveness and symmetry, which is often the goal of looksmaxxing.
Orthotropic Approaches and Appliances (Non-Surgical Orthopedics)
What it is: “Orthotropics” is a term coined by Dr. John Mew for a paradigm of guiding facial growth using natural forces and some appliance assistance, as opposed to conventional orthodontics which often focuses on straightening teeth. In the context of late adolescence, non-surgical appliances could include things like:
- Specialized retainers or expanders that apply light pressure to the dental arches (e.g. a Biobloc Stage 3, ALF appliance, Homeoblock).
- Functional appliances (like Twin Block or Herbst used in teenagers) that posture the lower jaw forward.
- Mouthguards like the Myobrace, which are worn to keep the tongue on the palate and encourage nasal breathing while applying mild arch expansion forces
How they promote CCW growth:
- Arch expanders (non-surgical): Appliances like a Schwarz appliance or ALF wire can apply lateral pressure to the teeth and alveolar bone, promoting some expansion of the upper arch. Even in an older teen, the midpalatal suture may have limited flexibility, but slow expansion can cause the bones to bend and remodel, widening the smile and providing more room for the tongue. This often leads to a slight forward movement of the maxilla and an upward rotation of the mandible as the bite deepens. It directly counteracts the narrow, high-arched palate associated with clockwise growth.
- Forward-posturing appliances: Devices such as a Modified Functional Appliance or even nighttime mandibular advancement devices can hold the lower jaw forward. In an actively growing 16-year-old, a functional appliance can stimulate extra growth of the mandible. However, by late adolescence, true growth induction is reduced; still, these appliances can reposition the jaw forward dentally (by moving teeth) and encourage a more favorable jaw relationship. Essentially, they can camouflage a mild skeletal retrusion by tipping teeth and adapting the bite – which results in a more forward chin posture (mimicking CCW rotation).
- Orthotropic training appliances: For example, the Biobloc Stage 1 appliance (usually for younger kids) tries to change posture. In a late teen, a light appliance might be used mainly as a retainer to keep the tongue posture correct and perhaps maintain any expansion achieved earlier. Another example is the Homeoblock, an appliance worn usually during sleep in adults, which proponents claim stimulates bone growth in the midface by applying intermittent bite forces and causing micro-fluctuations in the cranial sutures. While not mainstream, some users have reported subtle widening of the dental arches and more prominent cheekbones over a year or two of use.
- Expansion appliances: It’s documented that rapid maxillary expansion (RME) is less effective after ~16 without surgical assistance, but slow expansion can still gain a few millimeters in arch width in older teens by alveolar bending. There are orthodontic case series of 17–18-year-olds achieving ~2–4 mm of expansion across the upper arch nonsurgically; much of that is dental movement, but some is skeletal. Proper tongue posture (as per a 2014 European Journal of Orthodontics study) can improve the stability and amount of expansion achieved (Palatal Expansion and Tongue Placement) (Palatal Expansion and Tongue Placement) – meaning combining expansion devices with training yields better forward outcomes.
- Functional appliances: Studies indicate that most of the action of devices like Herbst or Twin Block in late adolescence is dental. For instance, a study of late-teen Class II patients using a Forsus (spring appliance) for 6 months found “no sagittal and vertical skeletal changes were induced” – the corrections came from tooth movements, and the occlusal plane actually rotated a bit clockwise due to those dental changes (Evaluation of the Immediate Dentofacial Changes in Late Adolescent Patients Treated with the Forsus™ FRD - PMC). This suggests that if growth is nearly done, functional appliances alone won’t rotate the jaw CCW in a skeletal way. However, they can improve the bite such that the jaw can function in a more forward position (which has aesthetic benefits).
- Orthotropics: There’s limited peer-reviewed data for late teen orthotropic treatment. Most of Dr. Mew’s published results are on younger patients. That said, some transformations advertised in the orthotropic community for older teens show improved jawlines – but it’s hard to separate what was appliance vs natural growth. Orthodontic consensus is that past puberty, orthopedic changes (like notably advancing the maxilla forward) are extremely difficult without surgery.
Expected changes: If an appliance is used:
- Upper arch expansion: Possibly on the order of 2–3 mm increase in intermolar width over several months of wear. This can subtly broaden the smile and allow the tongue more room, aiding forward posture.
- Lower jaw positioning: A functional appliance might improve the ANB angle (the difference in position between upper and lower jaw) by a degree or two by the end of treatment, mostly via dental compensation. The visual impact can be a slightly reduced overbite/overjet and a jaw that appears less recessed. However, the actual mandibular length increase may be very small (perhaps 1 mm or so beyond normal growth).
- Facial soft tissue: Sometimes even dental changes can improve the drape of the soft tissue – for example, bringing upper front teeth back can let the lip settle better and make the chin look more pronounced. So appliances can indirectly improve jawline appearance.
- Stability of changes: After using any appliance, a retainer or continuation of good habits is necessary to retain the change. At this age, any skeletal expansion or change has a tendency to relapse if the underlying muscle environment isn’t fixed – hence the importance of the other techniques like OMT and nasal breathing to lock in gains.
Potential for Remodeling and Realistic Expectations
Late adolescent individuals can certainly achieve improvements in facial structure through the natural interventions described, but it’s crucial to have realistic expectations about the magnitude of change. Unlike early childhood or the pubertal growth spurt, when bones can grow centimeters, in the 16–22 age range we are typically looking at changes on the scale of millimeters – and often these are soft-tissue or dental millimeters rather than big skeletal moves.How much change is possible? It varies by individual (factors include genetics, how much growth they had left, how diligently they apply these techniques, and their starting point). Here are some general guidelines on feasible changes:
- Maxillary position/Forward growth: Without surgery, the upper jaw in a late teen is not going to jump forward dramatically. However, by expanding the palate slightly and improving tongue posture, one might see the upper jaw dental arch come forward by ~1–2 mm over a year (measured perhaps as upper incisors moving forward or a slight reduction in overjet as the lower jaw follows). Some of this could be dental change (tooth angulation) rather than the bone itself moving.
- Mandibular projection: The lower jaw’s length is mostly set, but a lot of its apparent position depends on rotation and posture. If someone had a backward-rotated mandible (due to an open bite or bad posture), closing the bite and posture correction could easily bring the chin forward by several millimeters. For example, simply going from mouth-open resting to lips-closed can shift the resting gonion (chin) forward maybe ~3–4 mm. Orthodontically, finishing an open bite in a teenager can rotate the mandible CCW and “forward and upwardly displace pogonion” noticeably (Treatment and retention of relapsed anterior open-bite with low tongue posture and tongue-tie: A 10-year follow-up - PMC). So while you might not lengthen the jawbone, you can reposition it forward/upward by a few mm through tooth changes and posture. True additional growth of the mandible at the condyles in late teens might give ~1–3 mm over a couple years (males closer to 2–3 mm, females maybe 1 mm), which is just normal late growth – we can try to maximize that by good function.
- Arch width changes: The inter-molar width of the upper jaw can potentially increase modestly with persistent tongue pressure or a removable expander. A realistic target might be ~2 mm increase over 6–12 months (for someone whose arch was narrow to begin with). With an aggressive approach (appliance + exercise), maybe up to ~4–5 mm, but larger expansions at this age would mostly be dental (teeth tipping) rather than true skeletal widening. The lower arch width can also expand a couple mm if teeth upright and the tongue posture improves.
- Masseter muscle hypertrophy: Measurable increases in masseter thickness can occur within months of chewing training. A study using ultrasound could find perhaps a 5–10% increase in masseter cross-sectional area after a few months of hard chewing practice – which might equate to 1 mm thicker on each side. Visually, this can enhance the bigonial (jaw angle) width slightly when clenching. Some extreme cases of clenchers have jaw muscles that make the bigonial width several millimeters wider than in a relaxed state. One could “bodybuild” the jaw muscles to a degree, keeping in mind the risk of TMJ strain.
- Soft tissue contour changes: Reducing a forward head posture can improve the cervicomental angle (the neck-to-chin angle) by degrees, making the jaw look more defined. Losing any excess facial fat (if needed through diet/exercise) can also expose the bone structure more – though that’s not a skeletal change, it often complements the look one is trying to achieve. Facial muscle exercises might raise the cheeks and tighten the jawline, again by small margins but enough to be perceptible (e.g., a slightly less pronounced nasolabial fold, or the corner of the jaw looking a bit sharper).
- Airway and functional changes: These techniques can have significant functional payoffs even if cosmetic changes are modest. It’s plausible for someone to increase their nasal airway volume or oropharyngeal space by a noticeable percentage through these exercises (e.g., myofunctional therapy for sleep apnea can reduce AHI by >30%). So an improvement in breathing and sleep can be a huge quality of life gain, even if it’s not easily measured in millimeters on the face.
It’s also crucial to note that any changes will happen gradually. One might not notice any difference month to month, but comparing photos or measurements year to year could reveal the slow improvements. Patience and consistency are key.
Summary Table of Techniques and Effects: The table below summarizes the discussed methods, their mechanisms, and expected effects:
Technique | Mechanism & Rationale | Potential Effects (Late Teens) | Evidence Level / Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Tongue Posture (“Mewing”) | Tongue resting on palate provides constant gentle expansion force; maintains proper arch form and encourages forward growth (Functional Matrix theory). Also improves nasal breathing by keeping mouth closed. | Skeletal: Maintains arch width, possibly +1–2 mm palate width over time. Prevents downward growth, allowing slight forward remodeling if any growth left. Soft Tissue: Improved lip seal, better support under chin (reduces double chin). | Indirect evidence: Mouth-breathing leads to narrow, retruded jaws (Effects of nasal obstruction on facial development - PubMed), so proper tongue posture likely helps. No direct clinical trials; orthodontists say major changes are unproven ([Ask an Orthodontist: Does Mewing Work? |
Chewing Exercises | Increased mastication (forceful chewing) → bone responds to higher loads (Wolff’s Law) and muscles hypertrophy. Hard diet triggers osteocyte activity for bone formation in jaw; strong masseters can remodel gonial angle. | Skeletal: Slight increase in mandibular bone density and possibly thickness at muscle attachment. Minor jaw shape changes (e.g. slightly shorter lower face height if vertical growth was due to weak chewing). Muscular: Masseter & jaw muscles enlarge, giving a broader jawline. Might see a few mm increase in facial width at jaw angles when flexed. | Animal studies show harder chewing -> stouter jawbone Humans: masseter hypertrophy yields a square face. Functional improvements of bite force observed. Cosmetic changes require long-term effort; overuse can train TMJ. |
Myofunctional Therapy | Targets dysfunctional oral habits (tongue thrust, mouth breathing). Exercises retrain tongue to palate, correct swallow, strengthen lips. This removes forces that cause malocclusions and guides jaws to optimal position. | Skeletal: Helps intrude or control eruption of teeth (if combined with appliances) leading to bite closure and CCW jaw rotation. In isolation, may not grow bone but can allow jaw to assume a more forward/up position once improper muscle pressures are gone. Dental: Can close anterior open bite by a few mm as tongue thrust is eliminated. Airway: Tones throat muscles, possibly enlarging airway slightly. | Case evidence of open bite closure with OMT + minor skeletal changes (CCW rotation) pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov . Meta-analyses show OMT improves sleep apnea metrics (indicating functional muscle change) onlinelibrary.wiley.com . Overall evidence is moderate; works best in conjunction with orthodontics. No harm, potential stability benefits for any changes achieved. |
Nasal Breathing Habit | Ensures lips closed, tongue up (by necessity). Avoids long-face syndrome by eliminating need for adaptive mouth-open posture. Increases nitric oxide and improves overall health which can aid growth. | Skeletal: Halts adverse vertical changes. Any remaining growth redirects horizontally. Might aid a tiny increase in maxillary width as tongue is now habitually on palate. Soft Tissue: Better lip tone, less “adenoid facies”. Over time nose breathing may improve nasal passage size. Postural: Encourages proper jaw resting position (teeth lightly together). | Strong epidemiological evidence linking mouth breathing to narrow, long face pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov . Switching to nasal breathing in a teen likely prevents further deformity, though reversal of established features is gradual. Often requires medical management of nasal issues. High benefit-to-risk ratio (breathing properly is fundamental). |
Head/Neck Posture | Upright cervical posture (ears over shoulders) allows jaw to seat correctly in socket. Forward head posture pulls jaw back/down via muscle and gravitation forces. Correcting posture reduces this tension. | Skeletal: No new bone, but existing anatomy is repositioned. Mandible can rotate up and forward a few degrees when posture corrected, improving chin projection marginally. Soft Tissue: More defined jaw-neck angle; less strain on jaw muscles (which can hypertrophy abnormally with poor posture). | Posture linked with jaw position in studies mdpi.com . Ortho textbooks acknowledge forward head posture can exacerbate Class II appearance. Evidence is associative; clinical improvement data are limited but logic strong. Easy to implement alongside other methods. |
Facial Muscle Exercises | Strengthens supporting muscles (lips, cheeks, chin, neck). Toned muscles exert slight continuous forces on bone and help maintain proper jaw orientation. Also reduces sagging for sharper features. | Skeletal: Minimal direct effect except perhaps slight periosteal tension. Soft Tissue: Noticeable firmer jawline, reduced double chin if present. Lip competency improves – can help teeth alignment passively. Cheeks lifted subtly. These changes improve the appearance of forward growth even if bone hasn’t moved much. | One trial showed ↑ muscle thickness and ↓ facial sag after 8 weeks of facial exercise pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov , indicating real toning effect. Mostly anecdotal support for jawline benefits, but low risk. Considered more cosmetic but can reinforce good habits (e.g., keeping mouth closed via lip exercises). |
Orthotropic Appliances (e.g. expanders, functional devices) | Applies orthopedic forces to bone/teeth to reshape arches or jaw relationship. Expansion appliances push palate outward (promoting forward, width growth). Functional appliances posture jaw forward, attempting to stimulate growth or dental compensation. | Skeletal: Limited at this age. Palate expansion: +2–4 mm arch width possible (mostly dental, some skeletal). Forward jaw changes: maybe +1–2 mm skeletal, rest dental. Can induce slight CCW rotation if vertical dimension is controlled (e.g., high-pull headgear or molar intrusion in some cases). Dental: Significant changes possible (correct overjet, tooth alignment) which improve jaw function and appearance. | Orthodontic studies show marginal skeletal changes in late teens with appliances (Forsus: no skeletal change, only dental pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov ). Some Class III or II can be corrected with combos of dental movement. Requires professional supervision. Good for achieving changes that exercises alone cannot (e.g., widening a very narrow palate). |
Note: The above methods are best used in combination. Each reinforces the other – for example, an expander can create space that the tongue then maintains; strong chewing muscles and good posture together yield a better result than either alone. Consistency over at least 6–12 months is needed before subtle changes become evident.
Conclusion
In late adolescence, dramatic craniofacial transformations without surgery are not common – the skeletal die is largely cast by this age. However, by leveraging the principles of bone remodeling and muscle adaptation, incremental improvements in jaw orientation, facial width, and definition are attainable. Counter-clockwise rotation of the facial complex – with its benefits of a stronger jawline, forward growth, and improved airway – can be encouraged through a holistic approach: correct tongue posture (mewing), robust chewing function, myofunctional exercises, strict nasal breathing, upright body posture, and possibly the strategic use of orthodontic appliances or orthotropic devices. These natural methods work with the body’s physiology to nudge growth or remodeling in a favorable direction.
A late adolescent following these practices might realistically gain on the order of a few millimeters of skeletal change and noticeable soft-tissue toning. That can translate to a visibly improved profile, a more chiseled jawline, and greater facial balance – subtle changes that collectively enhance appearance and function. Importantly, these approaches also yield functional health benefits: better breathing, improved chewing efficiency, and reduced risk of TMJ issues. The principle of Wolff’s Law assures us that bone remains dynamic and will respond (albeit slowly) to the stresses and strains of daily habits. By consciously optimizing those habits (“softmaxxing”), one can ensure that even after puberty, the face continues to develop in the best possible way.
Ultimately, late adolescence is a transition to skeletal maturity, but it’s also a time when disciplined effort can still harness the tail end of growth and the power of remodeling. By setting realistic goals, tracking progress (photos, dental models, etc.), and possibly consulting professionals (orthodontists, myofunctional therapists) for guidance, individuals can achieve meaningful improvements. Expect evolution, not revolution: you won’t wake up with a new face, but over months and years, the compound effect of these natural techniques can yield a face that is measurably more aligned, more defined, and more forward-grown, along with the confidence and health that come with it.
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