Know Your Mouth: Causes, Effects, and How to Fix an Underbite

Understanding Underbites

An underbite, also known to dental professionals as a Class III malocclusion, occurs when the lower jaw extends further than the upper jaw, causing the lower teeth to overlap the upper teeth. While this dental condition has various causes, it also has some serious side effects. Thankfully, modern medicine offers a variety of treatment options. In this guide, we’ll explore how to fix an underbite, the contributing factors, and the available treatments. In the event you have the opposite problem, take a look at our blog about overbites.

Causes of Underbites

Several factors contribute to underbite development, including severe injuries, improper jaw position, and misaligned teeth. Identifying these factors is essential for understanding the specific causes of the underbite and tailoring an effective treatment plan.

Genetic factors play a significant role in the development of underbites. Individuals with a family history of malocclusions are more susceptible. Underbites can develop early in life, so parents should monitor their child’s underbite development and seek early diagnosis for timely intervention. Early treatment, especially at a young age, can effectively address genetic influences on jaw development.

Effects of Underbites

Oral Health Problems and Tooth Decay

Underbites can lead to oral health problems, including tooth decay and gum disease. The misalignment of teeth creates tight spaces that are challenging to clean, increasing the risk of bacterial infections and decay. Proper oral hygiene is crucial in mitigating these effects.

Chronic Jaw Pain and Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)

Individuals with underbites may experience chronic jaw pain and discomfort due to the misalignment of the jaw joints. In severe cases, this misalignment can contribute to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), impacting jaw function and overall oral health.

Self-Esteem and Social Implications

The aesthetic impact of an underbite can affect an individual’s self-esteem. Addressing the underbite not only has health benefits but also contributes to improved confidence and a positive self-image.

Treatment Options for Underbites

Orthodontic treatment, such as braces, is a common approach to fix underbites. Braces apply consistent pressure to move the teeth into the correct position gradually. In mild cases, braces or Invisalign retainers alone may suffice to correct the underbite.

For more severe underbites, orthognathic surgery may be recommended. This surgical procedure involves repositioning the upper and lower jaws to achieve proper alignment. Jaw surgery is often coupled with orthodontic treatment for comprehensive correction.

Orthodontic Devices: Rubber Bands and Expanders

Orthodontic devices, such as rubber bands and upper jaw expanders, may be used to aid in underbite correction. Rubber bands help align the upper and lower jaws, while expanders assist in widening the upper jaw for improved alignment.

Invisalign Aligners for Mild Underbite Cases

Invisalign aligners offer a discreet and comfortable alternative, especially for mild underbites. These clear aligners gradually shift teeth into the correct position without the visibility of traditional braces.

Fixing Underbites Without Surgery

Reverse Pull Face Mask and Non-Surgical Options

In some cases, non-surgical options like the reverse pull face mask may be employed to correct an underbite. This orthodontic device applies force to the upper jaw, encouraging forward growth and aligning the bite without the need for surgery.

Preventing Bad Breath and Oral Health Complications

Proper oral hygiene is essential during underbite treatment to prevent bad breath and other oral health complications. Regular dental check-ups and thorough cleaning help maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout the correction process.

Advanced Techniques for Achieving Perfect Alignment

While braces and orthodontic devices play a pivotal role in correcting misalignments, there are advanced techniques employed by dentists to move teeth, reshape the jaws, and create optimal alignment. These methods are particularly beneficial in cases of severe underbites or complex orthodontic issues.

What is Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery, also known as jaw surgery, is a transformative procedure that involves repositioning the upper and lower jaws to achieve perfect alignment. This surgical approach is often recommended for cases where orthodontic treatments alone may not suffice.

How Does Orthognathic Surgery Work?

During orthognathic surgery, the oral surgeon carefully adjusts the position of the jawbones, addressing discrepancies in size, shape, or alignment. This comprehensive correction not only enhances facial aesthetics but also contributes to optimal function and long-term oral health.

Indications for Orthognathic Surgery

• Severe Underbites: Orthognathic surgery is a common intervention for individuals with severe underbites where the lower jaw significantly extends beyond the upper jaw.
• Complex Orthodontic Cases: In situations where conventional orthodontic treatments may not provide the desired results, orthognathic surgery becomes a viable option.

Tooth Extraction and Strategic Removal

In certain cases, strategic tooth extraction may be recommended as part of the orthodontic treatment plan. This approach creates space for the remaining teeth to shift into proper alignment, addressing overcrowding and facilitating a harmonious bite.

Customized Treatment Plans

Dentists carefully plan tooth extractions based on the individual’s case. Removing specific teeth strategically allows for controlled movement of the remaining teeth, leading to improved alignment and a balanced bite.

Common Orthodontic Devices

Upper Jaw Expanders for Alignment

Upper jaw expanders are orthodontic devices designed to widen the upper jaw gradually. This technique is especially beneficial when addressing narrow upper arches, creating additional space for teeth and improving overall alignment.

While traditional braces remain effective, advancements in orthodontics have introduced innovative devices like Invisalign aligners, which discreetly and comfortably shift teeth into their correct positions. These clear aligners offer a versatile option for various orthodontic needs.

Customized Treatment Plans for Perfect Alignment

Achieving perfect alignment involves comprehensive assessments by dental professionals. Orthodontists and oral surgeons work together to analyze X-rays, models, and digital scans, enabling them to create personalized treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of each patient.

Multidisciplinary Approach

In complex cases, a multidisciplinary approach involving orthodontists, oral surgeons, and other dental specialists ensures a holistic and effective strategy for achieving perfect alignment. This collaboration maximizes the expertise of each professional to address specific aspects of the alignment process.

Seeking Professional Guidance

If you suspect an underbite or notice signs in your child, seeking professional guidance is crucial. Consult with an orthodontist or oral surgeon to determine the correct position of your jaws and explore suitable treatment options. Early intervention and a personalized treatment plan can pave the way to a healthier, properly aligned smile.

Whether through orthodontic treatment, surgery, or a combination of interventions, fixing an underbite is a collaborative effort between you and your dental care team. Remember, a beautiful, aligned smile goes beyond aesthetics – it contributes to your overall health and well-being.

If you have further questions about underbite correction, feel free to reach out to us at  919-330-1710 or by booking an appointment online. Your oral health journey is unique, and we’re here to provide the information and support you need.