How to Fix an Underbite: Treatment Options and Solutions

 Have you ever noticed that your bottom teeth stick out a little further than your top teeth? This is a common dental problem called an underbite. While it might not seem like a big deal, an underbite can cause some serious issues if left untreated. But don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to fix it!

In this easy-to-understand guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about underbites. We’ll explain what they are, why they happen, and most importantly, all the different ways you can get them sorted out.

What Exactly is an Underbite?

Imagine you’re biting down. For most people, their top front teeth sit just slightly over their bottom front teeth. This is a normal bite. With an underbite, it’s the opposite. Your bottom front teeth are in front of your top front teeth. This gives the lower jaw a more prominent look, which is why it’s sometimes called a “Class III malocclusion.”

An underbite can range from very mild, where it’s barely noticeable, to quite severe, where the difference is very obvious.

So, What Causes an Underbite?

Underbites aren’t just a random thing that happens. They usually have a few common causes:

  • Genetics: This is the most common reason. If one or both of your parents have an underbite, there’s a good chance you might too. It’s often passed down through families.

  • Bad Habits: As a kid, certain habits can affect jaw growth. Things like thumb-sucking, using a dummy for too long, or pushing your tongue against your teeth can sometimes contribute to an underbite.

  • Injury: A serious injury to the face or jaw can sometimes cause the jaw to heal in a way that creates an underbite.

  • Tumours: In very rare cases, a tumour in the jaw can cause it to grow in an unusual way, leading to an underbite.

Why Bother Fixing It?

You might be thinking, “If it’s just how my jaw is, why do I need to fix it?” Well, an underbite is more than just a cosmetic issue. If left untreated, it can lead to some real problems down the track:

  • Trouble Chewing: An underbite can make it hard to chew food properly. This means you might not be getting all the nutrients you need, and it can also lead to digestive issues.

  • Speech Problems: The position of your teeth and jaw is crucial for making certain sounds. An underbite can make it difficult to pronounce some words, leading to a lisp or other speech difficulties.

  • Wear and Tear: When your teeth don’t fit together properly, some of them take on more of the chewing load than others. This can cause those teeth to wear down faster, and it can also lead to chipped or broken teeth.

  • Jaw Pain: The unnatural position of the jaw can put a lot of strain on the jaw joint, known as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This can cause chronic pain, headaches, and even lockjaw.

  • Low Self-Esteem: Let’s face it, your smile is a big part of how you present yourself to the world. An underbite can make some people feel self-conscious and can affect their confidence.

How to Fix an Underbite

The good news is that there are many effective ways to fix an underbite. The right treatment for you will depend on how severe your underbite is, your age, and what the dentist, like a dentist Kensington or an orthodontist, recommends.

Braces for Underbite Correction

When you think of teeth straightening, braces are probably the first thing that comes to mind. They’re a classic and very effective way to fix an underbite.

How They Work

Braces use brackets glued to your teeth, connected by a wire. The orthodontist tightens this wire over time, gently pulling your teeth into the correct position. For underbites, braces are often used with other tools like elastics (tiny rubber bands) that help move the upper and lower jaws into alignment.

Who They’re For

Braces are a great option for both kids and adults with mild to moderate underbites. They are a reliable and proven method.

Invisalign: A Discreet Alternative to Braces

If the idea of metal braces doesn’t appeal to you, then Invisalign might be the best solution.

How They Work

Invisalign uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners that fit snugly over your teeth. You wear each set of aligners for about two weeks before switching to the next set. These aligners slowly and gently move your teeth into the right position. The best part? They’re practically invisible!

Who They’re For

Invisalign is a fantastic choice for teens and adults with mild to moderate underbites. They offer more flexibility than traditional braces because you can take them out to eat, drink, and clean your teeth. You will need to be diligent about wearing them for at least 22 hours a day for them to work.

Surgical Options for Severe Underbites

Sometimes, an underbite is so severe that it’s caused by the jawbones themselves not being in the right place. In these cases, braces or Invisalign alone might not be enough. This is where surgery comes in.

How It Works

This is a more serious procedure, often called “orthognathic surgery.” A surgeon will reposition the bones in your upper and lower jaw to fix the underbite. It’s usually done in a hospital under general anaesthesia. After the surgery, you’ll typically have braces on your teeth to fine-tune the final position.

Who It’s For

Surgery is usually only recommended for adults with a severe skeletal underbite where the jaw bones themselves are the main problem. It’s often the last resort when other options aren’t effective.

How Long Does It Take to Fix an Underbite?

The length of time it takes to fix an underbite varies a lot depending on a few things:

  • Severity: A mild underbite will take less time to fix than a severe one.

  • Treatment method: Braces and Invisalign can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months, sometimes longer. Surgical treatment also involves a long recovery period and a period of wearing braces both before and after the surgery.

  • Age: It’s often easier and faster to fix an underbite in kids and teenagers because their jaws are still growing. In adults, the bones are harder, so it can take a bit longer.

The dentist or orthodontist will give you a more accurate timeline after they’ve assessed your specific situation.

Aftercare and Maintenance Post-Treatment

Once your underbite is fixed, your journey isn’t over just yet! To keep your teeth in their new, best position, you’ll need to wear a retainer.

What is a Retainer? 

A retainer is a custom-made device that you wear after your braces or Invisalign treatment is finished. It can be a removable one that you wear at night, or a fixed one that is a small wire glued to the back of your teeth.

Why is It Important? 

Without a retainer, your teeth can slowly shift back to their old position. Wearing your retainer as instructed by the dentist is the best way to protect your investment and keep your new smile for life.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Treatment for Your Underbite

An underbite is a common dental issue, but it can be fixed. Whether you choose traditional braces, the discreet option of Invisalign, or a surgical solution for more serious cases, there’s a treatment plan out there for you.

The first and most important step is to book a consultation with a trusted professional, such as a dentist or orthodontist, right here in SmileWorks Dental Kensington. We can examine your teeth, determine the cause of your underbite, and recommend the best course of action.Don’t let an underbite cause you any more pain or embarrassment. By taking action, you can get a healthier, happier smile and improve your overall well-being. So, why take the first step today?

Source: How to Fix an Underbite: Treatment Options and Solutions

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