What Is An Underbite? | How Is It Treated?

Underbites occur when the lower row of teeth significantly overlaps the upper row. This is less common than overbites, however, the issue involves the same chewing complications, speech impediments, and jaw soreness that overbites do. 

In an underbite, a patients chin is often pressed forward, which forces the entire head to sink lower. As a result, headaches and soreness in the ears, face, and neck are quite common.

What Issues Do Underbites Cause?

Oral health issues associated with an underbite can range greatly depending on the severity of the underbite. The main issue patients have is with their jaw. This is referred to as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). TMJ is when your jaw feels locked or stuck and can cause a popping sensation. TMJ can cause discomfort for some patients, especially if it is chronic. Some side effects of TMJ include toothaches, headaches, dizziness, and earaches.

What Causes An Underbite?

There are quite a few factors when trying to determine a patients cause for having an underbite, and they include:

• Long-term bottle feeding
• Extended pacifier use
• Prolonged thumb sucking
• Genetics
• Oral injuries
• Oral health

It is important to note that if at least one of your parents has an underbite, you are more likely to have one too. Genetics also play a role in deciding a person’s jaw, tooth shape, size, and color.

How To Correct An Underbite?

For patients with a mild underbite, standard metal braces or clear aligners are used. For patients with a more severe underbite, oral surgery may be needed to properly align the jaw after the teeth have been straightened.