Can All Underbites Be Fixed with Braces?

Underbites are relatively rare compared to overbites, occurring in a much smaller portion of people. This condition, which refers to when your lower teeth stick out further than your upper teeth, is often treated with braces. However, not all underbites can be fixed with this common dental appliance. We’ll look at when a dentist will recommend braces and why the patient may require a different or additional methodology to correct the problem.

When Can Braces Solve the Problem?

Typically, braces in Columbia, SC, are recommended for mild to moderate underbites. In some cases, clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign, etc.) can effectively push back the lower teeth by guiding the jaws to the proper position. In other cases, the teeth may need rubber bands to consistently apply pressure to the jaw to ensure realignment.

During an evaluation, the dentist will consider the age of the patient, as it’s easier to make changes the younger the person is. This is partially why experts recommend having an evaluation done by the time a child is seven years old. By this point, they can determine how their jaw, teeth, and speech patterns are developing, which can potentially allow for early intervention (which can mean less time and money spent in the dentist’s or orthodontist’s office).

Treatment for Severe Underbites

While unlikely, there are some patients who will only benefit from jaw surgery. If the patient has a bone anomaly, then braces may do little to correct this. During jaw surgery, the jawbone must be reshaped to fit one set of teeth behind the other. The surgeon may target the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both jaws during the surgery. Once the bite has been corrected, they’ll typically secure the position with plates and screws.

Find an Orthodontist in Columbia

If you’re looking for an orthodontist in Columbia, SC, that can find a solution to an underbite, Tompkins Orthodontics has two locations in the city to serve parents and adults who want to correct their bite. Underbites aren’t just aesthetic issues, they can cause anything from pain to more complicated dental issues. To determine the best course of treatment, whether it’s braces, surgery, or another dental appliance, contact us today.

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