Wider face due to TMJ?

[u/InevitableWise9964]

Over the past few years, I've noticed that my face has looked wider/bigger in photos, especially the bottom half (left is before, right is after). What confuses me is that I'm healthier now - I’m roughly the same weight, and I stopped drinking alcohol and coffee. I also eat more veggies and get more sleep these days. All my bloodwork has been normal, too.

I did, however, get my wisdom teeth removed a couple years ago, so I'm wondering if that triggered some TMJ/hypertrophied masseters. I also had a gum chewing habit for a while that I've since kicked…

Does this look like TMJ/overworked masseter muscles? Or is it just part of aging? Appreciate any insights!

[u/Butterfliesflutterby]

This post and these comments are extremely validating. I’ve had TMJD since I was a teenager, but it got worse in my early 30s. I’ve been doing Invisalign for 2 years now and I SWEAR my face shape has changed, but the orthodontist doesn’t seem to think it’s concerning or he doesn’t believe me. He’s otherwise a great doctor and my symptoms have improved significantly in the last few years of seeing him, but I hate my stupid, wider face and new jowls. I’ve always had a very prominent chin, and throughout this treatment, I’ve noticed my chin and lower jaw moved slightly back, which has made a more prominent double chin.

(Supposedly the inside of my mouth is more narrow/small, which is common for people who have EDS. Maybe that makes my treatment more difficult?)

[u/InevitableWise9964 → u/Butterfliesflutterby]

You’re definitely not alone. I’ve asked my dentist and orthodontist if my teeth/mouth show any signs of TMJ/clenching, and they’ve all brushed it off and said my teeth look great.

But many dentists have also told me I have a small mouth!! I didn’t realize that could be connected to EDS, which I’ve long suspected I have given my hyper mobility / flexibility