Another orthodontic concern we see at Garlington Orthodontics is an underbite. An underbite is a type of dental issue in which the lower teeth extend past the upper teeth when the mouth is closed. This condition can affect the way you look, speak, and chew.
An underbite can cause a lot of challenges. You can achieve a healthy and aligned smile with the right treatment and care. Understanding the causes, problems, and treatment options for an underbite is the first step toward addressing this condition. If you suspect an underbite, visit Dr. Garlington to explore your treatment options. Let us help you start your journey towards a better smile.
Underbites in Long Beach, CA
An underbite occurs when the lower jaw protrudes forward, causing the lower teeth to overlap the upper teeth. This creates a noticeable misalignment that can affect both appearance and function. An underbite can range from mild, where the lower teeth slightly overlap the upper teeth, to severe, where the teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed.
Several factors can cause a patient to develop an underbite, from genetics to trauma. The most common cause of an underbite is genetics. If one or both of your parents had an underbite, there’s a higher chance you might have one, too. The shape and size of your jaw and teeth are often inherited. Along with genetics, the lower jaw can grow faster than the upper jaw, leading to an underbite. This imbalance in growth can cause the lower teeth to protrude.
Certain childhood habits, such as thumb sucking, prolonged use of a pacifier, or bottle feeding beyond the infant years, can contribute to an underbite. Furthermore, an injury to the jaw can sometimes result in an underbite if the jaw heals in a misaligned position.
Some medical conditions and syndromes, such as Crouzon or Treacher-Collins syndrome, can affect jaw development and lead to an underbite.
How We Can Fix an Underbite
Treating an underbite often requires orthodontic intervention. The type of treatment depends on the severity of the underbite, and the patient’s age also affects the treatment options.
- Braces: Braces, along with other orthodontic devices, such as rubber bands or headgear, can achieve the best results.
- Invisalign: Clear aligners can treat mild to moderate underbites.
- Expanders: For children whose jaws are still growing, a palatal expander can help widen the upper jaw to correct an underbite.
- Tooth Extraction: In some cases, removing one or more teeth can create the space needed to realign the jaw and correct the underbite.
If you have an underbite, you must seek the right treatment. Otherwise, you may experience unwanted symptoms. For example, an underbite can make biting and chewing food hard. This can lead to digestive problems if you can’t chew your food well before swallowing. Additionally, an underbite can affect your speech, making it difficult to pronounce certain words and sounds clearly.
Many people with an underbite experience jaw pain and discomfort. Jaw misalignment can cause tension and pain in the jaw muscles, leading to discomfort or even chronic jaw pain. Improper tooth alignment can also cause uneven wear and tear, which can increase the risk of tooth damage and cavities.
Underbite FAQs
When you have an underbite, you can be insecure about your smile. It can also impact how you speak and chew. Learn more by reading the answers to these frequently asked questions below.
How can an underbite affect my oral health?
An untreated underbite can lead to several oral health issues. It can cause uneven wear on the teeth, making them more susceptible to chipping, cracking, or decay. The misalignment can also strain the jaw muscles and joints, potentially leading to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Over time, these problems may cause discomfort, headaches, and difficulties with chewing and speaking.
Can an underbite fix itself over time?
In most cases, an underbite will not correct itself without professional treatment. While children’s jawbones are still developing, early orthodontic intervention can help guide proper growth and alignment. However, once jaw growth is complete, braces, clear aligners, or surgery may be required to correct the bite. The sooner an underbite is evaluated, the more treatment options are available.
At what age is it best to treat an underbite?
The ideal time to treat an underbite is during childhood or early adolescence, while the jaw is still growing. Early orthodontic intervention can guide proper jaw development and often eliminate the need for surgery later in life. However, adults can still successfully correct underbites with braces, aligners, or surgical options. The best approach depends on the individual’s age, jaw structure, and severity of the misalignment.
How long does it take to correct an underbite?
The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the underbite and the chosen treatment method. Mild cases corrected with braces or aligners may take 12 to 24 months, while more complex cases involving surgery can take longer. Early intervention in children can often reduce treatment time significantly. Dr. Garlington will provide a personalized timeline based on your specific needs.
Is correcting an underbite painful?
Most patients experience mild discomfort during treatment, particularly when braces are adjusted or new aligner trays are used. This discomfort typically subsides within a few days as the mouth adjusts. Over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods can help manage any soreness. We take great care to make treatment as comfortable and effective as possible.
What happens if I don’t treat my underbite?
If left untreated, an underbite can cause long-term oral and health problems. It can lead to excessive tooth wear, jaw pain, speech issues, and difficulty chewing properly. Over time, it may also cause facial imbalance and affect self-esteem. Treating an underbite early not only improves function and comfort but also helps protect your long-term dental health.