What Is An Underbite?
An underbite is when the lower jaw protrudes further out than the upper arch of teeth. Although they are often seen as an aesthetic issue, if left untreated, underbites can lead to a range of oral health concerns that can affect the health, function, and appearance of a patient’s smile. Finding solutions for underbites can help improve the health, function, and appearance of your smile. Underbites are one of the orthodontic concerns that Dr. Sankey has experience treating.
Dr. Wayne L. Sankey offers comprehensive care for patients seeking treatment for an underbite near you. Our goal is to help realign the jaw and create a more stable bite. We work closely with our patients throughout all phases of their care and provide personalized solutions for their orthodontic needs.
What Causes An Underbite?
Underbites are usually the result of genetics, which means there are not any external factors that can influence whether or not you develop an underbite. They are formed by an underdeveloped upper jaw and a larger lower jaw. Genetics can determine if you have jaw deformities or overcrowding teeth, both of which can contribute to an overbite. Early intervention and phased treatment for underbites are highly recommended for the best possible results.
In some cases, poor dental habits can increase the degree of an underbite. For instance, factors such as mouth breathing, thumb thrusting, poor chewing habits, thumb sucking, and excessive pacifier use can contribute to underbite. Developing proper dental habits, especially at a young age, can help improve the health and function of your smile.
What Are The Treatment Options For An Underbite?
Unlike an overbite, an underbite will not resolve on its own, meaning that an underbite will typically require some form of treatment. Early intervention is key to restoring function to your bite. In addition, there any many benefits to fixing an underbite, including the following:
- Allows for easier cleaning of the teeth and gums
- Reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease
- Can alleviate tension and pain in the face and jaw
If you are experiencing any form of discomfort or pain, be sure to visit our Flower Mound orthodontics office for a consultation with Dr. Sankey. During your consultation, Dr. Sankey will assess your symptoms and perform a complete evaluation of your teeth, jaw, and bite. With the results of your exam, Dr. Sankey can build a treatment plan that is right for you.
A comprehensive treatment for an underbite may include one of the following solutions:
- Invisalign
- Invisalign Teen
- Orthodontic Appliances
- Surgery
While early intervention is best for optimal results, undergoing treatment for underbite in adulthood is possible. Patients of any age can benefit from a comfortable bite. Visit Flower Mound Orthodontics to explore your options.
Underbite FAQs
Do genetics play a role in underbites?
Underbites can be caused by a genetic predisposition. Some genetic conditions that are known to cause underbites are binder syndrome, Rabson-Mendenhall syndrome, Geroderma osteodysplastica, and Treacher Collins syndrome.
Can Invisalign® help an underbite?
Invisalign can be used to treat select types of underbites. If an underbite has been caused by teeth being out of position, orthodontists will likely recommend Invisalign as a first treatment option because it is likely to help fix crooked teeth. If your underbite is more severe and is part of a jaw bone misalignment Invisalign may be used as treatment, along with other orthodontic appliances.
In some very severe cases, the only way to treat an underbite is through surgery. If you are looking into treating an underbite and want to explore Invisalign options talk to or schedule an appointment with your orthodontist.
When does an underbite require surgery?
Underbites come in many different levels of severity, some being easier to treat than others. Orthodontists will likely take an x-ray to get an internal skeletal picture so that they can analyze what is the cause of the underbite is.
Treatment can depend on many factors, the number one being the severity of the bite, but also including the age of the patient, cause of the underbite, and genetic predisposition. More than likely your orthodontists will attempt to fix your underbite without therapy, but it is not uncommon for surgery to be an option for treatment.
Find Treatment For An Underbite Near You
Visit Dr. Sankey and our team at Flower Mound Orthodontics for the care you need. We can evaluate your smile and determine which solutions are right for you. We offer a wide range of treatment options for patients with overbites. To learn more about your options, call 972.833.8212 or request an appointment online.