What is an Underbite?
An underbite is a dental condition where your lower teeth sit in front of your upper teeth when your mouth is closed. It’s often due to the lower jaw, or mandible, being a bit more forward than it should be, or an upper jaw being more backwards than it should be.
Underbites can be categorized into two main types: skeletal and dental. A skeletal underbite is when the lower jaw is physically larger than the upper jaw. Genetics can play a significant role, meaning if your parents or grandparents had an underbite, you might also be likely to have it. It’s something that is often addressed with orthodontic treatment or surgery. On the other hand, a dental underbite is when the teeth, rather than the jaw, are misaligned. This can happen due to habits like tongue thrusting. Dental underbites are typically easier to correct, often with braces or aligners.
An underbite can influence a person’s facial appearance. It can lead to a prominent chin and a bulldog-like appearance. The shape of the face might also appear more round or full, and the smile might look a bit off-center due to the misalignment. But remember, everyone’s unique facial structure contributes to their individual beauty, and an underbite is just a part of that uniqueness. However, if you’re unhappy with your appearance, orthodontic treatments are available to help correct it.
What causes an underbite?
Underbites can happen when the lower jaw grows too much or if the upper jaw doesn’t grow enough, causing the lower jaw and teeth to extend beyond the upper teeth. It’s often a genetic condition, meaning if someone in your family has an underbite, you’re more likely to have one too. Sometimes, childhood habits like a low tongue thrust can cause underbite. A prolonged use of a pacifier can also contribute to an underbite. It’s always best to consult with a dental professional if you have any concerns!
Genetics of underbite
Prognathism of the lower jaw is often a hereditary condition, meaning it can be passed down from parents to their children through genes. However, it’s not always a guarantee that you’ll have an underbite just because your parents do, as it’s a complex trait influenced by multiple genes. Environmental factors, like tongue posture or prolonged use of a pacifier, can also contribute to the development of an underbite. So, while your genes play a significant role, they’re not the sole determinants. Isn’t genetics fascinating?
How Underbite can Affect Your Health
You might be surprised to learn that an underbite can actually have quite an impact on your overall health. It’s not just about aesthetics or a perfect smile. An underbite can cause difficulties to chew and eat or speak, which could potentially lead to nutritional problems. It can also cause strain on your jaw, leading to chronic jaw pain and headaches. In some cases, it might even result in speech issues, making it harder for you to articulate certain words. So, it’s not just about looking good, it’s also about feeling good and staying healthy!
Underbite Treatment
Non-surgical treatment options
Orthodontic treatment like braces or Invisalign can be a fantastic solution for correcting underbites. Braces and Invisalign both aim to realign your teeth and jaw over time, bringing your bite back to a normal position. Traditional braces use a system of brackets and wires to gradually shift your teeth with use of elastics. Invisalign treatment involves wearing a series of clear, plastic aligners that are custom-made for your mouth. These aligners gradually shift your teeth to their correct positions with the use of elastics, alleviating an underbite over time.
Treating an underbite often calls for the use of specially crafted face masks or headgear. It can be used with a jaw expander. They’re usually most effective for children between the ages of 5 and 11. This kind of orthodontic device works by gently and consistently nudging your lower jaw forward, helping it to gradually shift into a better position. This can be a big help in lining up your top and bottom teeth more effectively. You’ll typically wear the face mask or headgear for a set number of hours each day, usually while you’re catching some z’s at night. It’s a non-invasive and typically pretty comfy way of fixing an underbite. This treatment can also improve airway.
Underbite surgery
Orthognathic surgery for an underbite is a type of corrective procedure that addresses irregularities in the jaw and facial structure. The surgery involves repositioning the jaw bones (one of the jaws or both upper jaw and lower jaw) to achieve a more balanced and functional alignment. It’s a significant procedure typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. While it may sound a bit daunting, it’s a commonly performed surgery with a high success rate. Plus, it can greatly improve your ability to chew, speak, and may enhance your appearance.
Early Intervention
Early intervention is crucial in dealing with an underbite. It’s easier to fix an underbite in children since their jaws are still developing. In adults, treatment may be more complex and might even require surgery. An underbite can significantly influence facial growth and development. It can lead to a prominent chin and a bulging lower lip, which may affect your overall facial symmetry. It’s important to consult with an orthodontist early if you notice signs of an underbite, as early intervention can guide proper jaw growth and development.
Recognizing an underbite
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Misaligned teeth
- Altered facial appearance
- Speech difficulties
- Increased wear and tear on the teeth
If you notice these signs in your child, it’s advisable to consult an orthodontist.
Benefits of early intervention
- Prevents further complications: Early intervention can help prevent related problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and difficulty speaking or eating.
- Less invasive treatments: In younger patients, less invasive treatments can be used, leading to a shorter treatment duration and greater comfort.
- Improved self-esteem: Correcting an underbite can significantly improve a person’s appearance and self-esteem.
Conclusion
It’s super important to seek professional advice if you have an underbite. Here’s why: an underbite isn’t just about aesthetics, it could potentially lead to various health issues like difficulty in speaking, chewing, and even breathing. If not treated, it can cause wear and tear on your teeth and may lead to chronic pain in the jaw and headaches. Orthodontists are the professionals who can guide you through the best treatment options, which might include braces, aligners, or even surgery in severe cases. So, don’t hesitate to reach out to them. Remember, your smile is precious and it’s important to keep it healthy and beautiful!