The Effect of Synkinesis on Smile Anatomy

Smiling is one of the most important facial expressions that occurs when facial muscles work in synchronization and harmony. However, a condition called synkinesis can disrupt these natural muscle movements and cause involuntary muscle contractions and asymmetric facial expressions during smiling. In this context, this condition, which develops after facial nerve damage or facial paralysis, directly affects the anatomy of the smile and leads to incorrect stimulation of the facial muscles. At this point, you can review our content for all the questions you have in mind about the effects of synkinesis on smile anatomy. In this way, you can have more detailed information. We wish you all healthy days and pleasant reading.

What is Smile Anatomy?

The anatomy of a smile is a facial expression produced by the coordinated work of facial muscles and is largely under the control of the facial nerve (7th cranial nerve). This control protects the most important muscles during the smile, the zygomaticus major and minor muscles. Because these muscles directly play an active role in smiling. In addition, the orbicularis oculi muscle helps to emphasize the wrinkles around the eyes in a real and sincere smile (Duchenne smile). However, the Risorius muscle contributes to a lighter smile, while the levator labii superioris muscle can increase the visibility of the teeth by raising the upper lip. Finally, the Mentalis muscle can influence the balance of the smile by slightly raising the lower lip and creating tension in the jaw area.

On the other hand, smile anatomy is not limited to muscles. In addition to this; tooth structure, jaw alignment and even the facial bone structure of the individual are among the important factors that determine the aesthetic appearance of the smile. Therefore, while the harmony between the muscles prevents facial asymmetry, a natural and controlled smile emerges thanks to the signals transmitted by the nerves to the muscles. However, conditions such as facial paralysis, nerve damage or synkinesia can cause imbalances and asymmetries in the anatomy of the smile. This can directly affect a person's facial expression and social interactions.

The Role of Facial Muscles in Smile Anatomy

The role of the facial muscles in the anatomy of the smile is based on the coordinated work of the muscles that provide a natural and balanced facial expression. For example, the zygomaticus major and minor muscles form the basic movement of the smile by pulling the corners of the mouth upward and sideways. After this basic movement, the orbicularis oculi muscle adds naturalness to the smile by creating wrinkles around the eyes (Duchenne smile) to create a real and sincere smile. In addition, the Risorius muscle comes into play, pulling the corners of the lips horizontally for a lighter smile, especially in social settings for a controlled and restrained expression.

The levator labii superioris muscle, on the other hand, lifts the upper lip upwards, allowing the teeth to be seen and is usually active in smiles that showcase the teeth. At the same time, the depressor anguli oris muscle helps to balance the facial expression by pulling down the corners of the mouth, sometimes associated with a sad expression, but it creates balance with the opposing muscles during a smile. Thus, the muscles work in harmony to create a smile that is both symmetrical and natural. However, when the facial nerve (facial nerve) is damaged or incorrect nerve connections occur (such as synkinesia), some muscles may involuntarily activate, resulting in an asymmetrical or irregular smile. This can negatively affect a person's social life.

Effect of Synkinesis on Smile Anatomy

Senkinesis has undeniable effects on the anatomy of the smile. These effects can generally cause mental and physical distress. If we need to take a look at these effects, they are as follows;

• Due to synkinesis, facial muscles can contract involuntarily due to incorrect nerve connections. This can cause one side to move more or irregularly during a smile.
• If the orbicularis oculi muscle is particularly affected, the eye may close or squint during smiling.
• When the mentalis muscle is over-contracted, a feeling of stiffness in the jaw area can occur, as wrinkles in the jaw area can become prominent.
• When the zygomaticus major and minor muscles are stimulated incorrectly, the corners of the mouth may move in different directions. In this case, lip movements may become incompatible during smiling.
• Synkinesis can cause the muscles to work unevenly when speaking or chewing. Involuntary movements, especially in the corner of the mouth, can lead to difficulties in saliva control.
• While certain muscle groups normally work during smiling, in synkinesis, unnecessary muscles may also contract, causing the face to appear stiff or tense.

Synkinesis' Effect on Smile Anatomy Methods to Reduce Its Effects

There are certain methods to reduce the effects of synkinesis on the smile. These methods vary depending on the extent of the synkinesis disorder of the person. We recommend contacting a specialized surgeon for this. However, the general methods are as follows;

• Botox Treatment

Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections are a commonly used procedure to control involuntary contractions. This procedure is very useful for maintaining the balance of the face. At this point, Botox application should be applied to the right muscles at the right dose. Therefore, in case of incorrect application, the problem of excessive immobilization of the face may occur.

• Physical Therapy and Facial Exercises

Exercises to consciously control the facial muscles can reduce their imbalance. In particular, the muscles can be retrained with biofeedback techniques that support the smile movement.

• Mirror Therapy and Controlled Mimicry

Making controlled facial movements in front of the mirror can help correct incorrect muscle connections. Thus, planned mimicry exercises can improve muscle coordination over time.

• Nerve and Muscle Relaxation Techniques

Yoga, breathing exercises and meditation can reduce overstimulation of the nervous system and help to control involuntary movements.

• Sensory Retraining

Nerve connections can be restored with light touch, massage or sensory stimuli to retrain the nerves and muscles.

• Electrical Stimulation (TENS)

Stimulating muscles and nerves with low-voltage electric current can help improve muscle coordination. However, it is not suitable for all patients and should be performed under expert supervision.

• Surgical Intervention (For Advanced Cases)

Procedures such as selective neurectomy or nerve transfer surgery may be considered in advanced cases. This requires severe asymmetries and involuntary contractions that do not improve with other methods.

• Stress Management and Sleep Patterns

Stress can exacerbate synkinesis symptoms by increasing nerve impulses. Stress management techniques should therefore be practiced.