Q. Hello, I am 39 years old and I have been wearing braces for about 15 months. During this time, I have noticed that each side of my face has become gradually wider. It was not until recently when I started to look at some of photos of my self that my face has appears quite larger. It appears that the angle of my jaw has moved away from my ear and my jaw is a bit more pronounced. I will say that I am quite depressed by this. I don’t look the same as once did prior to braces. I don’t like to smile because when I do, the sides of my face projected out as if my masseter muscle has been on steroids. Also, my cheek bones ball up when I smile. I don’t understand why this happening and I am searching for possible answers. Thank you for your time