These 6 habits secretly determine what your face will look like as you grow (puberty makes all the difference!)" (no cope )

If signs of a recessed maxilla or other jaw imbalance appear during puberty, it’s important to understand that these are often growth-related patterns rather than permanent structures. During this stage, the facial bones are still developing, which means they can frequently be influenced and guided. Early orthodontic and especially orthopedic treatment can make a real difference, helping to modify jaw growth and improve facial balance while the growth phase is still active.


How to Reduce the Risk of Recessed Facial Bone Development During Puberty


During puberty and early adolescence, the facial skeleton is still actively growing. The maxilla (upper jaw), mandible (lower jaw), and overall facial structure can still be influenced by both genetics and functional habits. This is the key window where growth patterns are shaped.


1. Nasal Breathing


Chronic mouth breathing is often linked to less optimal facial development.

• prioritize consistent nasal breathing
• treat allergies or airway blockages early
• ensure clear breathing especially during sleep

Nasal breathing supports proper tongue posture and balanced upper jaw development.





2. Tongue Posture


The tongue acts as a natural guide for upper jaw growth.

• tongue should rest on the palate
• avoid low tongue posture
• improper swallowing patterns can affect jaw development

Myofunctional therapy can help correct dysfunctional habits.





3. Early Orthodontic Monitoring


Early check-ups (around ages 7–10) can detect skeletal issues before they worsen.


Possible interventions:

• growth guidance appliances
• palatal expansion
• functional orthodontic devices

Earlier treatment = better growth control.





4. Chewing & Function


Mechanical stimulation supports bone development.

• chew firmer foods regularly
• avoid consistently soft diets
• use both sides of the jaw evenly

Low functional load may limit jaw development.





5. Posture


Head and neck posture can influence jaw function and appearance.

• maintain upright posture
• avoid constant forward head position
• reduce prolonged screen slouching

6. Early Correction of Jaw Imbalances


Class II or III patterns can be influenced during growth.

• Class II: retruded maxilla/mandible → growth modification possible
• Class III: maxillary deficiency → early orthopedic treatment

Devices like expanders or protraction systems are often used.

E.o
Because of this, parents and caregivers should take these signs seriously and ensure that children receive timely orthodontic evaluations when needed. At the same time, teenagers can also become aware of these factors themselves, since early attention to breathing, posture, and jaw development can have a long-term impact. Addressing these issues during growth can significantly improve function, appearance, and overall quality of life well into adulthood.



Source:

Nasal obstruction and facial growth: the strength of evidence for clinical assumptions - PubMed

The orthodontic relevance of nasorespiratory obstruction and its effect on facial growth continues to be debated after almost a century of controversy. The continuing interest in nasal obstruction is fueled by strong convictions, weak evidence, and the prevailing uncertainty of cause and effect...

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Shows that the link between breathing problems and facial bone growth is debated

Facial morphological characteristics of mouth breathers vs. nasal breathers: A systematic review and meta-analysis of lateral cephalometric data - PMC

The present systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to assess the association between mouth breathing and facial morphological characteristics in children and adolescents. PubMed, Medline, Scopus and Google Scholar databases were searched ...

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

{keyword:mouth breathing!!!!}
Finds associations, but not definitive cause-and-effect proof

Opening up on airways: the purported effect of nasorespiratory obstruction on dentofacial growth - PubMed

Nasorespiratory obstruction has been purported to influence dentofacial growth adversely. This has sparked considerable debate for decades with a resurgence in interest in 'airway friendly orthodontics' among both general and specialist dental practitioners. This critical review aims to evaluate...

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Shows RME can change nasal space and breathing, especially in growing patients

 

[Orbital1]

If signs of a recessed maxilla or other jaw imbalance appear during puberty, it’s important to understand that these are often growth-related patterns rather than permanent structures. During this stage, the facial bones are still developing, which means they can frequently be influenced and guided. Early orthodontic and especially orthopedic treatment can make a real difference, helping to modify jaw growth and improve facial balance while the growth phase is still active.


How to Reduce the Risk of Recessed Facial Bone Development During Puberty


During puberty and early adolescence, the facial skeleton is still actively growing. The maxilla (upper jaw), mandible (lower jaw), and overall facial structure can still be influenced by both genetics and functional habits. This is the key window where growth patterns are shaped.


1. Nasal Breathing


Chronic mouth breathing is often linked to less optimal facial development.

• prioritize consistent nasal breathing
• treat allergies or airway blockages early
• ensure clear breathing especially during sleep

Nasal breathing supports proper tongue posture and balanced upper jaw development.





2. Tongue Posture


The tongue acts as a natural guide for upper jaw growth.

• tongue should rest on the palate
• avoid low tongue posture
• improper swallowing patterns can affect jaw development

Myofunctional therapy can help correct dysfunctional habits.





3. Early Orthodontic Monitoring


Early check-ups (around ages 7–10) can detect skeletal issues before they worsen.


Possible interventions:

• growth guidance appliances
• palatal expansion
• functional orthodontic devices

Earlier treatment = better growth control.





4. Chewing & Function


Mechanical stimulation supports bone development.

• chew firmer foods regularly
• avoid consistently soft diets
• use both sides of the jaw evenly

Low functional load may limit jaw development.





5. Posture


Head and neck posture can influence jaw function and appearance.

• maintain upright posture
• avoid constant forward head position
• reduce prolonged screen slouching

6. Early Correction of Jaw Imbalances


Class II or III patterns can be influenced during growth.

• Class II: retruded maxilla/mandible → growth modification possible
• Class III: maxillary deficiency → early orthopedic treatment

Devices like expanders or protraction systems are often used.

E.o
Because of this, parents and caregivers should take these signs seriously and ensure that children receive timely orthodontic evaluations when needed. At the same time, teenagers can also become aware of these factors themselves, since early attention to breathing, posture, and jaw development can have a long-term impact. Addressing these issues during growth can significantly improve function, appearance, and overall quality of life well into adulthood.



Source:

Nasal obstruction and facial growth: the strength of evidence for clinical assumptions - PubMed

The orthodontic relevance of nasorespiratory obstruction and its effect on facial growth continues to be debated after almost a century of controversy. The continuing interest in nasal obstruction is fueled by strong convictions, weak evidence, and the prevailing uncertainty of cause and effect...

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Shows that the link between breathing problems and facial bone growth is debated

Facial morphological characteristics of mouth breathers vs. nasal breathers: A systematic review and meta-analysis of lateral cephalometric data - PMC

The present systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to assess the association between mouth breathing and facial morphological characteristics in children and adolescents. PubMed, Medline, Scopus and Google Scholar databases were searched ...

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

{keyword:mouth breathing!!!!}
Finds associations, but not definitive cause-and-effect proof

Opening up on airways: the purported effect of nasorespiratory obstruction on dentofacial growth - PubMed

Nasorespiratory obstruction has been purported to influence dentofacial growth adversely. This has sparked considerable debate for decades with a resurgence in interest in 'airway friendly orthodontics' among both general and specialist dental practitioners. This critical review aims to evaluate...

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Shows RME can change nasal space and breathing, especially in growing patients

Mirin great thread

 

[jdofh]

Mirin great thread

It should be a basic expectation that people are informed about how strongly orthodontic and orthopedic treatment can influence facial growth during puberty. In this stage, jaw development is still modifiable, so early intervention can make a real difference.



It’s unfortunate when neither parents nor the person themselves are aware of these possibilities. That’s why as many people as possible should be informed, so they don’t miss the chance to guide growth during the most important period.

 

[youriblamegenetics]

i thought it would have been a shit thread but instead it was actually fire

 

[6”3neartyronelite]

Wataaaa also pretty useless I hope nobody is here at 11 years old but bookmarked for when I have kids

 

[Orbital1]

It should be a basic expectation that people are informed about how strongly orthodontic and orthopedic treatment can influence facial growth during puberty. In this stage, jaw development is still modifiable, so early intervention can make a real difference.



It’s unfortunate when neither parents nor the person themselves are aware of these possibilities. That’s why as many people as possible should be informed, so they don’t miss the chance to guide growth during the most important period.

Well fuck my jaw, maxilla and all bones basically are completley fucked and i am 16. Should i go get orthodontic work?

 

[jdofh]

Wataaaa also pretty useless I hope
here at 11 years old but bookmarked for when I have kid

If growth is not yet completed, the impact is generally more limited—but it is still meaningful and can be beneficial in guiding development and improving overall outcomes.

 

[jdofh]

Well fuck my jaw, maxilla and all bones basically are completley fucked and i am 16. Should i go get orthodontic work?

You’re 16, so it’s still a good time to see an orthodontist. They can actually assess whether growth modification or dental correction can help in your situation.

 

[sev]

If signs of a recessed maxilla or other jaw imbalance appear during puberty, it’s important to understand that these are often growth-related patterns rather than permanent structures. During this stage, the facial bones are still developing, which means they can frequently be influenced and guided. Early orthodontic and especially orthopedic treatment can make a real difference, helping to modify jaw growth and improve facial balance while the growth phase is still active.


How to Reduce the Risk of Recessed Facial Bone Development During Puberty


During puberty and early adolescence, the facial skeleton is still actively growing. The maxilla (upper jaw), mandible (lower jaw), and overall facial structure can still be influenced by both genetics and functional habits. This is the key window where growth patterns are shaped.


1. Nasal Breathing


Chronic mouth breathing is often linked to less optimal facial development.

• prioritize consistent nasal breathing
• treat allergies or airway blockages early
• ensure clear breathing especially during sleep

Nasal breathing supports proper tongue posture and balanced upper jaw development.





2. Tongue Posture


The tongue acts as a natural guide for upper jaw growth.

• tongue should rest on the palate
• avoid low tongue posture
• improper swallowing patterns can affect jaw development

Myofunctional therapy can help correct dysfunctional habits.





3. Early Orthodontic Monitoring


Early check-ups (around ages 7–10) can detect skeletal issues before they worsen.


Possible interventions:

• growth guidance appliances
• palatal expansion
• functional orthodontic devices

Earlier treatment = better growth control.





4. Chewing & Function


Mechanical stimulation supports bone development.

• chew firmer foods regularly
• avoid consistently soft diets
• use both sides of the jaw evenly

Low functional load may limit jaw development.





5. Posture


Head and neck posture can influence jaw function and appearance.

• maintain upright posture
• avoid constant forward head position
• reduce prolonged screen slouching

6. Early Correction of Jaw Imbalances


Class II or III patterns can be influenced during growth.

• Class II: retruded maxilla/mandible → growth modification possible
• Class III: maxillary deficiency → early orthopedic treatment

Devices like expanders or protraction systems are often used.

E.o
Because of this, parents and caregivers should take these signs seriously and ensure that children receive timely orthodontic evaluations when needed. At the same time, teenagers can also become aware of these factors themselves, since early attention to breathing, posture, and jaw development can have a long-term impact. Addressing these issues during growth can significantly improve function, appearance, and overall quality of life well into adulthood.



Source:

Nasal obstruction and facial growth: the strength of evidence for clinical assumptions - PubMed

The orthodontic relevance of nasorespiratory obstruction and its effect on facial growth continues to be debated after almost a century of controversy. The continuing interest in nasal obstruction is fueled by strong convictions, weak evidence, and the prevailing uncertainty of cause and effect...

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Shows that the link between breathing problems and facial bone growth is debated

Facial morphological characteristics of mouth breathers vs. nasal breathers: A systematic review and meta-analysis of lateral cephalometric data - PMC

The present systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to assess the association between mouth breathing and facial morphological characteristics in children and adolescents. PubMed, Medline, Scopus and Google Scholar databases were searched ...

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

{keyword:mouth breathing!!!!}
Finds associations, but not definitive cause-and-effect proof

Opening up on airways: the purported effect of nasorespiratory obstruction on dentofacial growth - PubMed

Nasorespiratory obstruction has been purported to influence dentofacial growth adversely. This has sparked considerable debate for decades with a resurgence in interest in 'airway friendly orthodontics' among both general and specialist dental practitioners. This critical review aims to evaluate...

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Shows RME can change nasal space and breathing, especially in growing patients

water, but nice work

 

[Orbital1]

You’re 16, so it’s still a good time to see an orthodontist. They can actually assess whether growth modification or dental correction can help in your situation.

Yeah i will try to figure it out. Thanks bro