underbite
What is underbite?
When the bottom teeth overlap the top teeth, you have an ‘under bite’.
This is also known as a Class 3 occlusion where there is a mismatch between the size of the upper and lower jaws. This can give an obvious cosmetic problem giving the appearance of a protruded lower jaw.
It is in fact usually due to the upper jaw not growing enough forward.
Underbite Treatment
It is not usually possible for orthodontic braces alone to fix this type of bite unless it is very mild, and surgery is usually required.
Surgery aims to reposition the jaws to give a normal bite. The repositioned jaws improves the bite, giving harmony and balance to the face. This will improve the cosmetic look of the whole face, and at the same time give the patient a beautiful smile.
It usually involves surgery on both the upper and lower jaws (bimax), but it may be just upper jaw surgery to bring the upper jaw forward to match the lower jaw.
Benefits Of Surgery To Correct Under Bite
- Improved cosmetic balance of the face. Jaws and face will look in proportion, giving a beautiful smile.
- Improved bite allowing patients to bite and chew normally. Prevents early damage and wear of the teeth so they will last longer
- Improved breathing and snoring
- Reduced pain from jaw joint/TMJ dysfunction
- Improved confidence due to the transformational change
