What is an underbite?
An underbite simply refers to when you're biting together and the bottom teeth sit in front of the top teeth. In some cases, this is related to the position of the jaws, such as the lower jaw sitting farther forward, the upper jaw sitting farther back, or a combination of both. Depending on the cause and severity, an underbite can also affect the appearance of the facial profile.
What is the difference between an overbite and an underbite?
An overbite refers to how much the upper front teeth vertically overlap the lower front teeth, whereas an underbite refers to a bite relationship where the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth.
They're treated differently depending on what's causing the bite problem. Some cases can be treated by moving the teeth with braces or clear aligners, while bite problems that are significantly related to the position of the jaws may require more extensive treatment.
What causes an underbite?
An underbite can be related to skeletal growth and genetics. The lower jaw may grow farther forward, the upper jaw may not develop as far forward, or it can be a combination of both. In some patients, the position of the teeth can also contribute to the underbite.
Can an underbite worsen over time?
An underbite can change as the teeth and jaws develop, particularly in a growing patient. Once growth is complete, the bite may be more stable, although changes in the teeth can still occur over time.
Depending on how the teeth come together, some patients with an underbite may experience tooth wear or other functional concerns. That's why we evaluate the individual bite rather than assuming every underbite will behave the same way.
What are the risks of leaving an underbite untreated?
The effects of leaving an underbite untreated depend on the individual patient and the severity of the bite problem. In some cases, the way the teeth contact can contribute to excessive or uneven tooth wear, difficulty with biting or chewing, or other functional concerns.
If you have an underbite, it's a good idea to have it evaluated so we can determine what's causing it and whether treatment would be beneficial.
How is an underbite treated?
Depending on the severity and cause of the underbite, treatment may involve clear aligners or braces, sometimes with elastics. If there's a significant skeletal component to the underbite, more extensive treatment, including jaw surgery in certain cases, may be considered.
It really comes down to the position of the teeth and jaws and how much correction is needed to improve the bite.
Can Invisalign correct an underbite?
Invisalign can be used to correct certain underbites, particularly when the problem can be addressed primarily by moving the teeth. Elastics and attachments can also be incorporated into clear aligner treatment when appropriate.
For more complex cases, braces or a combination of orthodontic and surgical treatment may be recommended. We need to evaluate the individual bite to determine which approach is appropriate.
What are the treatment options for a mild versus severe underbite?
Treatment for a mild underbite may involve orthodontics, such as clear aligners or braces with elastics, depending on the cause of the bite problem. With a severe skeletal underbite, treatment may involve orthodontics combined with jaw surgery to reposition the jaws.
The appropriate treatment depends on how much of the underbite is caused by the teeth and how much is related to the underlying jaw structure.
How do braces help correct an underbite?
Braces can move the teeth into different positions to help correct certain underbites. Elastics may also be used to apply controlled forces between the upper and lower teeth and help improve the bite relationship.
The exact mechanics depend on the patient's teeth, jaw relationship, age, and treatment plan.
Can an underbite be corrected or prevented naturally?
Once an underbite is established, correcting it generally requires professional orthodontic treatment and, in certain skeletal cases, surgery. Because genetics and jaw development can play a major role, an underbite isn't necessarily something that can be prevented through diet, chewing exercises, or speech habits.
If you notice an underbite developing in a child, having it evaluated while they're still growing can help determine if early orthodontic treatment may be appropriate.
When might underbite surgery be needed?
Underbite surgery may be considered when there's a significant skeletal difference between the upper and lower jaws that can't be adequately corrected by moving the teeth alone. The decision is based on the jaw relationship, bite, facial structure, growth, and overall treatment goals.
In those cases, orthodontic treatment is often coordinated with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to determine the appropriate approach.
What happens during underbite surgery?
Underbite surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is performed under anesthesia by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Depending on the individual jaw relationship, surgery may reposition the lower jaw, upper jaw, or both. The bones are carefully repositioned and stabilized as part of the surgical plan.
It sounds extensive, and this isn't something we recommend unless the patient is an appropriate candidate and there's a reason for surgical correction. Orthodontic and surgical teams work together to plan the position of the teeth and jaws before and after the procedure.
What do before-and-after results look like for underbite surgery?
Before-and-after changes from underbite surgery depend on the patient's starting jaw position and the type of correction performed. Repositioning the jaws can change both the bite and facial profile, including the relationship of the chin, lips, and surrounding facial structures.
How long does it take to treat an underbite with orthodontics?
The length of time it takes to treat an underbite with orthodontics really varies by severity and the type of treatment needed. It depends on the position of the teeth and jaws, the amount of movement required, whether the patient is still growing, and whether surgery is part of the treatment plan.
If you're ready to schedule an exam or would like to learn more about our services, we'd love to hear from you. Call us at (970) 514-0662 or email [email protected]. We look forward to caring for your smile.