How Underbite Correction Actually Works

An underbite is a form of malocclusion, or teeth misalignment, in which the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth. Underbite is also known as a Class 3 malocclusion, prognathism, or a reverse bite.

An underbite can be minor, with the lower teeth only slightly overlapping the top teeth, or severe, with the lower jaw visibly protruding in front of the upper mouth.

Treatments for underbite depend on the severity of the problem. Braces or clear aligners are used to correct misaligned teeth, sometimes with the help of orthodontic appliances like a palatal expander or reverse-pull face mask. 

For major underbite, jaw surgery may be required. Tooth extraction may be needed if teeth are too crowded to allow space for teeth to shift into their correct positions.

Key Facts about Underbite Correction

• An underbite is a form of teeth misalignment. With an underbite, the lower teeth protrude in front of the upper teeth. 

• Underbite can be mild or severe. Severe cases are often caused by jaw misalignment.

• Many cases of underbite can be corrected with orthodontic treatment like braces or clear aligners. 

• The use of orthodontic devices like a palatal expander or reverse-pull face mask may also be used to correct an underbite, especially with children and teens whose jaws haven’t developed yet and are therefore more adaptable to treatment.

• If an underbite is caused by a jaw condition, jaw surgery may be needed.

What is an underbite?

An underbite is characterized by a lower jaw that’s pushed forward too far. Your lower teeth sit in front of your upper teeth instead of nesting behind them.

You can spot an underbite at home with bright light and a mirror. Close your jaws, and pull your lips back. If your lower teeth are in front of your upper teeth, you could have an underbite.

Dentists use special tools to measure the severity of your underbite. With those measurements, your problem could be placed on a spectrum from mild to moderate to severe. The more your jaw juts forward, the more significant the problem might be.

How to Correct an Underbite

Underbite correction options will vary depending on how serious the bite problem is, what’s causing it, and your age and jaw development.

Treatment of an underbite may include the following:

What happens if you don’t treat an underbite?

Leaving an underbite untreated isn’t wise. The problem isn’t simply cosmetic. It could have a significant impact on your comfort and your jaw’s function.

Common issues associated with an untreated underbite include the following:

• Difficulty eating (especially biting)

• Speech difficulties

• Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease

• Jaw pain

• Mouth breathing

• Sleep apnea

• Chronic bad breath 

You don’t have to be diagnosed with all of these issues to have an underbite. However, they are more common in people with significant bite problems.

Common Misconceptions about Underbite Treatment

Plenty of people have questions about how underbite correction works. Many more hold misconceptions about therapy that can keep them from getting the help they need. These are some common misconceptions:

Consult a Professional

Underbites are both common and treatable. People with the issue shouldn't let misinformation keep them from the help they need.

If you have a minor to moderate overbite, you might start with a consultation with an aligner company. This comes in the form of an impression kit you’ll use at home to take impressions of your teeth. A doctor will review these impressions and determine if their aligner product can correct your underbite.

If you aren’t a candidate for aligners, talk to an orthodontist about the best treatment path for you. Severe overbites may require a combination of approaches like surgery, braces, or aligners.