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Underbites in Miami, FL

Say Goodbye to Underbites and Hello to a Confident Smile 

Underbites, also known as malocclusions, occur when the lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw. This can lead to difficulty chewing and speaking, as well as other dental issues. Underbites can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics and thumb-sucking in childhood. 

Fortunately, many treatment options are available for underbites at the Miami, FL, office of Dr. Stephen Grussmark. Discover the causes, symptoms, and orthodontic treatment options for underbites.

What Are Underbites?

An underbite is a dental condition where the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth when the mouth is closed. This can result in an uneven bite, where the front teeth don’t meet properly, and the lower jaw appears more prominent than the upper jaw.

patient smiling in dental chair

Causes of Underbites

Underbites can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Genetics: Underbites can be inherited from parents with the condition or a family history of malocclusion.
  • Developmental Issues: Problems with the development of the jaw or teeth can result in an underbite. This can include issues such as a small upper jaw or a bigger lower jaw.
  • Bad Habits: Habits such as thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting can cause the lower jaw to protrude, leading to an underbite.
  • Injuries: Trauma to the jaw or teeth can cause misalignment, resulting in an underbite.
  • Airway Obstruction: Obstructive sleep apnea or other breathing problems can cause an underbite, as the position of the jaw can affect the airway.
  • Dental Problems: Losing baby teeth too early or having teeth extracted can cause the remaining teeth to shift, resulting in an underbite.

Underbite Symptoms

The symptoms of underbites vary depending on the severity, but common symptoms include:

  • Protruding Lower Jaw: The lower jaw may appear more prominent than the upper jaw.
  • Uneven Bite: The front teeth may not meet properly, resulting in an uneven bite.
  • Difficulty Biting and Chewing: An underbite can make it difficult to bite and chew food properly.
  • Speech Problems: An underbite can affect speech, causing difficulty with sounds or pronunciations.
  • Jaw Pain: Misalignment of the jaw can cause pain and discomfort.
  • Headaches: Tension in the jaw muscles can lead to headaches.
  • Tooth Wear: An underbite can cause excessive wear on the lower teeth due to misalignment.
  • Increased Risk of Dental Problems: Misaligned teeth can be harder to clean, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Schedule a consultation with our South Florida orthodontic specialist if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms to determine if you have an underbite and what treatment options are available.

Treatments for Underbites

There are several treatment options available for underbites, depending on the severity of the condition. The most common treatments for underbites include:

  • Orthodontic Treatment: Orthodontic braces can shift the teeth into the correct position. In more severe cases, headgear or other appliances may help move the jaw into position.
  • Surgery: In some cases, orthognathic surgery may be necessary to correct the underbite. This involves repositioning the upper or lower jaw to achieve the proper alignment.
  • Jaw Exercises: Exercises such as tongue thrusting and jaw-strengthening exercises can be used to help correct an underbite.
  • Oral Appliances: Appliances such as a chin cup or reverse-pull face mask can help correct an underbite in children.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is an underbite diagnosed?
At what age can underbite treatment be started?
Can underbites come back after treatment?
Can underbites cause other health problems?
How is an underbite diagnosed?

An underbite can be diagnosed through a physical examination by a dentist or an orthodontist. X-rays and other imaging techniques can help determine the extent of the underbite and the best treatment options.

At what age can underbite treatment be started?

Underbite treatment can be started at any age, but it’s best to start as early as possible. In children, treatment may begin as early as seven to eight, while adults can begin treatment at any time. However, the earlier the treatment, the easier it is to correct the underbite.

Can underbites come back after treatment?

In some cases, underbites can come back after treatment. This can happen if the patient doesn’t follow proper aftercare instructions or doesn’t wear their retainer as directed by their dentist or orthodontist. However, with oral health care, underbite correction should be permanent.

Can underbites cause other health problems?

Untreated underbites can cause several health problems, including jaw pain, headaches, speech problems, difficulty eating, and gum disease. Severe underbites can lead to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), which can cause pain in your jaw.

Discover the Best Underbite Treatment Options in Miami, FL

Are you struggling with an underbite? Don’t let it impact your quality of life any longer! Consult with a dental professional today to determine the best treatment options for your specific case. Whether it’s orthodontic braces, surgery, or other treatments, there is a solution that can help correct your underbite and improve your oral health. 

Don’t wait. Take action today by calling our Miami, FL, office at (305) 441-1200 or filling out our online contact form to schedule a consultation. We proudly serve patients in Key Biscayne, Coral Gables, and Hialeah.

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