What is an Underbite?
Last updated: November 23, 2024
What causes an underbite?
An underbite occurs when your lower jaw juts out further than your upper jaw, causing the lower teeth to overlap the upper teeth. It can result from a combination of genetic factors, developmental issues, or certain habits during childhood. Understanding what causes an underbite can help in determining the best course of treatment.
One of the most common causes of an underbite is genetics. Just like hair color or height, the shape and size of your jaw can be inherited. If one or both parents have an underbite or other dental alignment issues, there’s a higher chance that their child may develop an underbite as well. Genetics also influence the growth of teeth and bones, which may contribute to jaw misalignment.
Problems with jaw development during childhood can also lead to an underbite. For example, a discrepancy in the growth rates of the upper and lower jaw can create an uneven bite. The lower jaw may grow too far forward, or the upper jaw may not develop properly, resulting in misalignment.
Certain childhood habits also play a role in developing an underbite. Prolonged thumb sucking, excessive pacifier use beyond the toddler years, or using a bottle for an extended time can apply pressure to the teeth and jaw, gradually altering their position. Tongue thrusting—when the tongue pushes against the front teeth during swallowing—can also contribute to alignment problems over time, potentially leading to an underbite.
Another possible cause is the early loss of baby teeth or the improper eruption of adult teeth. When teeth are lost too soon or do not come in as they should, neighboring teeth may shift out of their proper positions, impacting the alignment of the bite. Additionally, issues like overcrowding of teeth or impacted teeth can exacerbate this misalignment.
In rarer cases, medical conditions or birth defects can lead to an underbite. Cleft palate, for example, can affect the structure and alignment of the jaw. Other syndromes that influence bone and facial development may also contribute to an underbite in certain individuals.
Lastly, some environmental factors, such as trauma or injury to the jaw, can disrupt normal jaw development and cause bite issues. If a child experiences a significant injury to their jaw, it may grow unevenly, leading to misalignment like an underbite.
In summary, an underbite can result from genetics, developmental issues, childhood habits, dental problems, medical conditions, or injuries. Identifying the underlying cause of your underbite can help your dentist or orthodontist develop a tailored treatment plan to improve alignment and oral health.
How can an underbite affect my dental health?
An underbite can lead to several issues that may affect your dental health over time. When your lower teeth stick out further than your upper teeth, it can create an uneven alignment in your bite. This misalignment often causes extra wear and tear on your teeth because they don’t fit together as they should. Over time, this can lead to tooth erosion, chipping, or even fractures, as the pressure on certain teeth is not distributed evenly.
Jaw pain and discomfort are other common problems associated with underbites. When your teeth and jaw don’t align properly, it can strain the muscles and joints around your jaw. This strain may lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which are often associated with pain around the jaw, headaches, and difficulty opening or closing your mouth comfortably. Left untreated, this condition can worsen and interfere with everyday activities like eating or speaking.
Speech difficulties can also arise from an underbite. When your teeth and jaw are out of alignment, they may affect the way you pronounce certain words or sounds. This can sometimes lead to a lisp or other speech irregularities. While these issues might not necessarily cause serious harm, they can affect self-confidence and make communication frustrating.
An underbite can impact oral hygiene as well. Misaligned teeth can make it harder to clean your teeth and gums properly. Food particles might get trapped in hard-to-reach areas, and brushing or flossing may not be enough to remove all the buildup. This increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Over time, unaddressed oral hygiene problems can lead to more severe conditions, such as tooth loss or advanced gum disease.
In addition, an underbite can sometimes change the overall appearance of your face. Since the lower jaw projects outward, it may create a more pronounced lower facial structure. This can affect the way your face looks, which may impact your self-esteem or confidence. While this is more of a cosmetic concern for many people, it’s still something that can influence your overall well-being.
Overall, an underbite can cause a range of issues, both functional and aesthetic. Addressing the problem early through professional assessment and treatment can prevent long-term dental complications and improve your quality of life. If left untreated, many of these problems can worsen, making treatment more complex and potentially more costly in the future. If you suspect an underbite, it’s essential to consult a dentist or orthodontist to evaluate your options.
What treatments are available to fix an underbite?
There are several treatments available to fix an underbite, and the best option depends on how severe the condition is and your age. Dentists, orthodontists, or oral surgeons can provide solutions tailored to your needs. Treatments range from non-invasive methods like braces to surgical interventions for more complex cases.
For mild underbites, orthodontic treatment is often the most effective approach. Braces or clear aligners, such as Invisalign, can adjust the position of your teeth and bite over time. These treatments work by applying gentle pressure to gradually move the teeth into proper alignment. If you're still growing, dental appliances like a reverse-pull face mask or chin cup may be an option. These devices encourage the correct jaw alignment and work best in children or teenagers whose bones are still developing.
In some cases, dentists may recommend tooth reshaping or bonding. This involves adjusting the size or shape of specific teeth to improve the way they fit together when you bite down. Dental veneers or crowns may also serve as cosmetic options for minor underbite correction, though they won’t address deeper structural concerns.
For more moderate to severe underbites, jaw surgery (also called orthognathic surgery) might be necessary. This is typically recommended when the root of the issue comes from the improper alignment of the upper and lower jaw bones, rather than just the teeth. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon can reposition your lower or upper jaw, ensuring a more balanced and functional bite. While surgery is an effective long-term solution, it often requires coordination with orthodontic treatment to achieve the best results.
Some people may also benefit from tooth extraction. If overcrowding contributes to the underbite, removing one or more teeth can create space and improve alignment. Dentists or orthodontists will determine whether this step is necessary based on your unique dental structure.
It's important to note that early intervention often makes treatment easier. Addressing underbites in childhood or adolescence, when the jaw is still developing, often reduces the need for more invasive procedures later in life. However, advancements in dental technology also make it possible to treat underbites effectively in adults.
A dentist or orthodontist will assess your condition during an exam and may take X-rays or impressions to determine the best treatment plan. If you're not sure which approach is right for you, consider consulting a specialist who can provide detailed recommendations based on your dental health and personal goals.
Do I need braces or surgery to correct my underbite?
Fixing an underbite can involve different treatment options, depending on the severity of the condition and your age. Braces and surgery are two of the most common methods used to correct an underbite, and in some cases, a combination of both may be necessary.
Braces are often the first option for treating underbites, especially in children and teenagers whose jaws are still growing. Traditional braces use wires and brackets to gently move teeth into the correct position over time. Clear aligners, like Invisalign, may also work for mild to moderate underbites, offering a less noticeable option for treatment. Orthodontic care typically takes anywhere from one to three years for effective results, depending on how severe the underbite is.
For younger children, early orthodontic intervention might include the use of special devices, such as expanders or reverse-pull headgear. These tools help guide jaw growth and alignment before the jaw fully develops, often reducing the need for more invasive treatments later. Treating an underbite early is ideal because, during childhood, the jaw is more adaptable and easier to reshape.
In adults or cases with severe underbites caused by the jawbone’s structure, surgery might be necessary. Surgery typically involves a procedure called orthognathic surgery, where an oral and maxillofacial surgeon adjusts the position of the upper or lower jaw. This treatment is often paired with braces before and after the surgery to ensure teeth alignment matches the new jaw position. Recovery from jaw surgery can take a few weeks, but it provides a long-term and significant improvement for individuals with severe underbites.
Both approaches aim to improve how your teeth fit together, enhance jaw function, and create a more balanced facial appearance. The best treatment for you depends on the specific cause and severity of your underbite, as well as your age. A dentist or orthodontist will need to evaluate your bite and develop a personalized treatment plan.
It’s important to note that whether braces, surgery, or a combination is needed, these treatments are well-established and have a high success rate. If you’re concerned about your underbite, it’s best to schedule a consultation to discuss your options. Addressing the issue not only improves your appearance but also reduces the risk of long-term dental problems like uneven tooth wear, jaw pain, or difficulty chewing.
Will fixing my underbite change the shape of my face?
Fixing an underbite can change the shape of your face in some cases, but how significant the change will be depends on the severity of your underbite and the type of treatment you receive. An underbite occurs when the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth, which may create a more prominent lower jaw or a less balanced facial profile. By correcting the alignment of your jaw and teeth, treatments can improve both function and aesthetics.
For individuals with a mild underbite, non-surgical options like braces or aligners can adjust the position of the teeth, which may subtly enhance the appearance of your jawline and smile. These changes usually result in a more harmonious balance between the upper and lower parts of your face. While the adjustments may be minor, they can still make a big difference in your overall facial symmetry.
In more severe cases, when the jaw itself is misaligned, options like jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) may be necessary. Surgical correction involves repositioning the jaws to align them properly, which often leads to more noticeable changes in facial structure. Patients often report seeing improvements in their profile, chin shape, and even the width of their face. The goal of the surgery isn’t just to enhance aesthetics—it aims to improve how your teeth function together, but the side effect of creating a more balanced facial appearance can be a welcome bonus.
Orthodontic treatment or surgery can also improve how you speak, chew, and breathe. This means any changes to your face are not just cosmetic; they’re often tied to greater comfort and functionality in your day-to-day life. While these adjustments can bring about a new look, your face will still look like you—just a more proportionate version of you.
It’s also important to keep in mind that not everyone experiences dramatic facial changes after underbite correction. Some people might not find their appearance shifts significantly if their underbite was mild, while others with more noticeable misalignment might experience a greater transformation. Your dentist or orthodontist will carefully evaluate your face, jaw, and teeth to provide a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
If you’re concerned about how treatment could change your appearance, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist or orthodontist to explain what you can expect. They may even use technology, like 3D imaging, to show you possible outcomes before treatment begins. Regardless of the method you choose, correcting an underbite will not only help your dental health but also give you the confidence that comes with a healthier and better-aligned smile.
How long does it take to treat an underbite?
The amount of time it takes to treat an underbite depends on several factors, including the severity of the underbite, the treatment method, and the patient’s age. Mild underbites may take less time to correct, while more severe cases usually require more extensive treatment and a longer duration.
If a dentist or orthodontist recommends braces to treat your underbite, the process typically lasts 18 to 36 months. Braces gradually shift your teeth into the correct position, which takes time to ensure the adjustments are both safe and effective. Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, may be another option for less severe underbites. These aligners generally require 12 to 18 months of use, but the exact timeline can vary based on the specific case.
In some situations, especially when the underbite is caused by the jaw’s structure rather than just the teeth alignment, surgery may be necessary. Orthognathic (jaw) surgery is often combined with orthodontic treatment, like braces, to achieve the best results. If this type of treatment is needed, the entire process can take several years, as braces are typically placed before surgery to prepare your teeth and again after surgery to fine-tune the alignment.
For younger patients, such as children and teenagers, treatment may take less time because their bones are still growing and easier to adjust. Dentists may recommend early intervention, such as a palatal expander or other appliances, which can speed up the treatment process and prevent the underbite from worsening.
Adults, whose jawbones are fully developed, may find that the corrective process takes longer because their bones are less flexible. However, modern treatment options are designed to be effective at any age.
To get an accurate estimate of how long your treatment will take, talk with your dentist or orthodontist. They will evaluate your specific situation and create a customized plan. It’s also important to follow any instructions they provide, such as caring for your braces or aligners and attending regular appointments, as this can impact the timeline of your treatment. Correcting an underbite can take time, but the long-term benefits for your health, appearance, and confidence make the effort worthwhile.
Can an underbite get worse over time if left untreated?
An underbite can get worse over time if left untreated, depending on its severity, underlying causes, and changes in your bite as you age. An underbite occurs when your lower teeth stick out farther than your upper teeth, often due to misalignment of the jaw or teeth. If it isn’t addressed, the imbalance in your bite may gradually lead to complications that worsen the condition.
As you grow older, the natural wear and tear on your teeth combined with the misaligned bite can create additional strain on your jaw. This strain may cause pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is the joint connecting your jawbone to your skull. Untreated underbites increase the risk of TMJ issues, including jaw clicking, popping sounds, headaches, and difficulty chewing. Over time, the joint problems could worsen, leading to chronic pain and reduced quality of life.
Another risk of leaving an underbite untreated is further tooth damage. When your bite doesn’t align properly, certain teeth may endure extra pressure and wear down unevenly. This could lead to tooth fractures, enamel erosion, or even tooth loss over time. Gum problems might also develop as your teeth and gums work harder to handle this unbalanced pressure.
Severe underbites may get worse during childhood or adolescence when the jaw is still growing. Genetics or other developmental factors might cause the condition to progress over time if intervention doesn’t take place. For adults, worsening underbite symptoms may result from age-related dental changes, teeth shifting due to missing teeth, or prolonged clenching and grinding of the teeth (bruxism).
If not treated, an underbite can also negatively affect speech, digestion, and self-confidence. Bite misalignment may cause difficulty chewing food properly, which might impact your digestion in the long term. Likewise, speech problems caused by an underbite, such as trouble pronouncing certain sounds, could persist or worsen. The psychological effects shouldn’t be ignored either, as feelings of embarrassment or insecurity about the appearance of an underbite may intensify over time.
The good news is that underbite treatments are available, and early care can help prevent it from worsening. Corrective options range from orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners to jaw surgery in more severe cases. To reduce the risk of the condition getting worse, it’s important to consult with your dentist or orthodontist sooner rather than later. They can evaluate the severity of the underbite and recommend a personalized treatment plan to address both function and aesthetics.
Does my dental insurance cover underbite correction?
Whether dental insurance covers underbite correction depends on the type of treatment and your specific insurance policy. Many dental insurance plans cover orthodontic treatments to correct underbites, such as braces, especially for children and teenagers. However, the amount of coverage can vary widely. It’s important to carefully review your policy to see what is included.
For adults, coverage for underbite correction can be more limited, as some plans view adult orthodontic work as cosmetic rather than medically necessary. If your underbite causes functional issues—such as difficulty chewing, speech problems, or jaw pain—your dentist or orthodontist may be able to document these concerns to help your insurance justify the treatment. Functional issues are often considered medical reasons, which can improve your chances of getting coverage.
Surgical correction for severe underbites, such as jaw surgery, may fall under medical insurance instead of dental insurance. This is because jaw surgery is typically considered a medical—not cosmetic—procedure when it's required to address issues like difficulty eating or chronic pain. In such cases, your medical insurance may cover part or all of the procedure, but pre-authorization is often required. Be sure to contact your medical insurer to understand what’s covered, as well as the out-of-pocket costs you might face.
If you’re considering other options, like clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign), check whether they are covered under your dental insurance. While some plans cover these alternatives, others may only cover traditional braces, so it’s essential to confirm the details with your provider.
Since dental and medical insurance plans differ in coverage levels and requirements, contacting your insurance company directly is the best way to get specific information about your plan's benefits. You can also ask your dental office for help verifying coverage. They often deal with insurance questions and may be able to provide an estimate of your out-of-pocket costs after coverage.
If your insurance does not fully cover underbite treatment, consider discussing financing options with your dental office. Many dentists and orthodontists offer payment plans, or you can look into healthcare credit programs specifically designed to help patients afford treatments.
In short, dental insurance may cover some parts of underbite correction, but the level of coverage depends on your plan and whether the treatment is deemed medically necessary. Be proactive in reviewing your policy and contacting your insurance company to understand your benefits fully.