What Happens When You Have an Underbite?
An underbite can affect how your mouth works, how your smile looks and even how comfortable your jaw feels each day. At Lucas Orthodontics, Dr. Albert Lucas, Dr. Lucas Jr., and Dr. Jonathan Lucas help patients understand what an underbite is, why it develops and how the right treatment can lead to a healthier, more confident start to the year.
What Is an Underbite?
An underbite happens when the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth. This positioning changes how the jaw fits together and how the teeth meet.
Can an underbite be minor or severe?
Yes. Some underbites barely affect appearance, while others can create noticeable changes in the bite and facial profile.
What Causes an Underbite?
Underbites can develop for different reasons, and understanding the cause helps guide treatment.
Do genetics play a role?
They often do. Jaw shape and size can be inherited, which is why underbites may run in families.
Can early habits contribute?
Some behaviors may influence jaw position while a child is growing, such as:
- Thumb or finger sucking
- Tongue pushing forward
- Extended pacifier use
- Long-term bottle feeding
Can injuries or medical issues cause underbites?
They can. Trauma or certain developmental conditions may affect the jaw’s alignment.
How Does an Underbite Affect Everyday Life?
An underbite can impact more than appearance. It can influence basic functions and overall comfort.
Does an underbite affect chewing?
Yes. When the teeth do not meet properly, chewing can feel uneven or tiring. Some foods may also be harder to bite into.
Can speech be affected?
Some people may notice difficulty with certain sounds or slight changes in how words form.
Does it cause discomfort?
An underbite may put stress on the jaw joints and muscles, sometimes leading to:
- Tension
- Popping sounds
- Headaches
How does it affect appearance?
A forward-positioned lower jaw can change facial balance or profile, which may affect confidence, especially as teens grow.
What Happens If an Underbite Is Not Treated?
Many people adapt to their bite, but long-term effects can develop if an underbite remains untreated.
What problems can appear over time?
- Wear on teeth
- Chips or cracks from abnormal contact
- Increased jaw strain
- Gum irritation
- Progression of bite imbalance
Addressing the issue early can make treatment easier and prevent future complications.
How Is an Underbite Evaluated?
What can you expect during your visit?
At Lucas Orthodontics, an evaluation usually includes:
- Checking how the teeth fit together
- Reviewing jaw movement
- Taking digital scans or photos
- Discussing symptoms and goals
This helps our doctors determine whether the underbite stems from the teeth, the jaw or both.
What Treatment Options Are Available?
Underbite treatment varies based on age and severity. Below is a simplified breakdown of common solutions.
Table: Underbite Treatment Options
Treatment | Best For | How It Helps |
Braces | Kids, teens, adults | Aligns teeth into proper position |
Clear Aligners | Teens, adults | Corrects mild to moderate cases |
Expanders | Younger children | Guides upper jaw development |
Reverse Pull Headgear | Children | Encourages forward upper jaw growth |
Jaw Surgery | Adults with severe cases | Corrects significant skeletal issues |
Can Braces Fix an Underbite?
Are braces a reliable option?
Yes. Braces are widely used for underbite correction and can address tooth position effectively.
How long do braces take?
Treatment time varies, but many patients complete care within one to three years depending on their specific bite.
Can Clear Aligners Fix an Underbite?
When do aligners work best?
Clear aligners are helpful when the underbite is caused by how the teeth sit rather than the bone structure.
Are they suitable for severe cases?
Not usually. Stronger skeletal differences often need additional tools or braces for the best results.
Is Early Treatment Helpful for Children?
During childhood, the upper jaw is still growing. Guiding jaw development early can:
- Improve alignment
- Reduce the need for complex treatment later
- Improve the bite before permanent teeth settle
What age should a child be evaluated?
The recommended age is around seven, which allows orthodontists to spot issues before they progress.
Can Adults Fix an Underbite Too?
Is it too late for treatment?
Not at all. Adults have many successful treatment options depending on the bite’s complexity.
What works best for adults?
- Braces
- Clear aligners
- Surgical correction for severe skeletal cases
How Can Fixing an Underbite Improve Your Life?
Correcting an underbite can make everyday tasks feel easier and improve overall oral health. Many patients notice:
- Better chewing
- Reduced jaw pressure
- Clearer speech
- Enhanced smile appearance
- More confidence
Starting treatment at the beginning of the year can help you feel healthier and more motivated as new habits form.
Understanding underbites is only one part of the bigger picture. You can learn more about the long-term benefits of orthodontic care by reading our guide on the value of orthodontic treatment.
Quick Recap
- An underbite is when the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth.
- It can affect chewing, comfort, speech and confidence.
- Causes include genetics, habits and jaw development.
- Treatment options range from braces and aligners to growth guidance and surgery.
- Early care helps children, and adults can receive treatment too.
- Lucas Orthodontics provides personalized underbite care in Pembroke Pines and Plantation.
Ready to Improve Your Bite and Confidence
A new year is a perfect time to take steps toward better oral health. If you or your child has an underbite, Lucas Orthodontics can help you understand your options and choose a path that supports long-term comfort and confidence. With the experience of Dr. Albert Lucas, Dr. Lucas Jr., and Dr. Jonathan Lucas, you can trust that your smile is in good hands.