In this article, you will become familiar with the term underbite, but what exactly is an underbite, and how is it treated? Underbite is a dental condition in which the lower front teeth extend forward beyond the upper front teeth, causing a noticeable outward gap.
Problems Caused by an Underbite
An underbite is more than just a cosmetic issue. While some individuals may adapt to mild cases, severe underbites can lead to oral health complications, including:
- Difficulty biting and chewing food
- Speech issues
- Jaw and facial pain due to misalignment
The way teeth are aligned can be influenced by various factors. Ideally, the upper teeth slightly overlap the lower teeth, and molars (the flat, wide teeth at the back of the mouth) should align properly. Proper dental alignment prevents accidental biting of the cheeks, lips, or tongue while eating.
Causes of an Underbite
Several factors contribute to the development of an underbite, including:
Childhood Habits
Certain childhood habits can increase the risk of an underbite or other dental misalignments, such as:
- Thumb sucking
- Tongue thrusting
- Prolonged pacifier use beyond the age of three
- Extended bottle-feeding past infancy
Genetic Factors
In most cases, an underbite is hereditary. If at least one family member has this condition, the likelihood of developing it increases. Genetics also influence jaw shape, tooth size, and positioning.
Some individuals may be born with crowded teeth, impacted teeth, irregularly shaped teeth, or poor dental alignment. Additionally, congenital conditions such as cleft lip or cleft palate may contribute to malocclusion (misalignment of teeth).
Jaw Injuries
Severe facial trauma, such as accidents, can cause permanent jawbone damage. While broken jawbones can often be repaired, the jaws may not always realign correctly after surgery, leading to an underbite.
Tumors
Tumors in the jawbone or oral cavity can cause the jaws to protrude abnormally.
Treatment for Underbite
Most people are not born with perfectly aligned teeth. In many cases, mild dental misalignments do not require medical treatment. However, correcting a severe underbite is essential for both functional and aesthetic benefits, including:
- Easier oral hygiene maintenance
- Reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease
- Less strain on teeth, jaw, and facial muscles (which helps prevent temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) and reduces the risk of tooth fractures)
Common Treatments for Underbite
At-Home Care
Brushing and flossing regularly, along with routine dental check-ups, are essential for maintaining healthy teeth. However, individuals with misaligned teeth or dental concerns need extra care to prevent further complications.
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste.
- Pay special attention to the gum line, inner and outer surfaces, and the back of the mouth when brushing.
- Floss daily in addition to brushing.
- Visit your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleanings and check-ups.
Medical Treatment
The only way to permanently correct an underbite and achieve proper dental alignment is through medical intervention. These treatments can also improve the overall appearance of the teeth.
For mild cases of underbite, a dentist may recommend:
- Braces or clear aligners to reposition the teeth gradually
- Tooth extraction in the lower jaw if overcrowding contributes to the underbite
For severe underbites, surgical intervention may be required.
Underbite Treatment in Children
The earlier an underbite is addressed, the better. If an underbite is mild and not highly visible, treatment can be postponed until the permanent teeth start emerging (around age 7). At this stage, orthodontic treatments such as braces may be used.
However, for severe underbites, especially those caused by congenital defects such as cleft lip, early surgical intervention may be necessary. Consulting a pediatric dentist or orthodontist can help determine the most suitable treatment approach. Since surgery carries certain risks, it is only recommended when the child’s ability to eat, breathe, or speak is significantly affected.
Underbite Surgery
Most oral and maxillofacial surgeons can successfully perform corrective jaw surgery for underbites. Common surgical procedures include:
- Advancing the upper jaw forward
- Repositioning the lower jaw backward
- Combining jaw surgery with braces or retainers to maintain proper bone alignment
Risks of Underbite Surgery
Like any surgical procedure, jaw surgery carries potential risks, such as:
- Complications from general anesthesia
- Infections
- Bleeding issues
- Scarring
The surgical process involves:
- Examinations and X-rays
- General anesthesia
- Bone cutting and reshaping
- Jaw repositioning
- Fixation using screws, plates, wires, or rubber bands
Recovery from jaw surgery typically takes one to three weeks, and post-surgery, orthodontic appliances such as braces or retainers may be necessary to maintain proper alignment.