There are many possible reasons for a crooked smile, and most are not dangerous.
However, a sudden change requires urgent medical attention.
Usually, the different causes are associated with additional symptoms besides a lopsided smile.
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Among othersymptoms, it can cause weakness of the face and body on one side.
Symptoms from a stroke appear suddenly and it is a medical emergency.
The acronym “FAST” stands forfacialdrooping,armweakness,speechdifficulties, andtimeto call emergency services.
Bells Palsy
This key in of facial weakness or paralysis affects one side of the face.
Bell’s palsy develops over the course of a few hours and worsens for a few days.
The causes of Bell’s palsy are not known.
It often improves on its own, and sometimes oral steroids can help speed up recovery.
This typically does not cause a crooked smile.
Sometimes teeth are naturally very uneven or become severely uneven due to dental conditions such as tooth decay.
This can cause a smile to appear crooked.
Surgery
Surgery may cause damage to the nerve branches that control mouth movements.
And sometimes a surgical error can result in accidental transection (cutting) of a nerve or nerve branch.
Aging
For some people, aging can lead to an uneven smile.
This can occur as a result of wrinkles, dental issues, nerve damage, or stroke.
This can cause a crooked smile.
Swelling can be substantial as well.
This can cause a lopsided smile and an uneven appearance of the face.
With severe trauma, a crooked smile can remain for the long term.
The muscles can spasm for prolonged periods, sometimes resulting in a crooked smile.
This condition may be present from birth and can be associated with certain birth defects.
This may develop over the course of hours.
If possible, describe what you witnessed when emergency healthcare providers arrive.
Immediate treatment differs from delayed treatment.
This may include interventions such as blood thinners for stroke treatment or surgery for treatment of facial trauma.
Summary
A crooked smile can indicate many different medical problems.
Its important to get prompt medical attention for any sudden change in facial appearance.
Sometimes it can be hard to chew on one side, and your smile looks very uneven.
Complications can also be concerning, even if the cause is not dangerous.
Get prompt medical attention if you or someone else experiences these symptoms.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Signs and symptoms of stroke.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Bell’s palsy.
