An underbite is when the lower teeth extend outward, and do not align properly with the upper teeth. This is referred to a “malocclusion” and can be mild or in some cases severe. When a child has an underbite most likely treatment is needed because the underbite causes difficulty biting or chewing food, affects a child’s speech, and may cause pain because the jaw is not properly aligned. Getting in front of any issues early on helps to prevent serious issues in the future. If needed, a detailed customized treatment plan is created to treat patients that suffer from an underbite.
WHAT ARE THE COMMON CAUSES OF AN UNDERBITE?
- Pacifier use after 3 years of age
- Long term bottle feeding
- Thumb sucking
- Tongue pushing on the teeth
- Genetics can play a role if another family member also had an underbite
- Jaw Injury can cause an underbite
- Tumors on the jawbones can cause the jaw to protrude
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS IF YOUR CHILD HAS AN UNDERBITE?
Treating an underbite is beneficial and will help to make your teeth easier to clean, and prevent decay or gum disease. If your child has pain due to their jaw being misaligned, treatment will help to relieve these symptoms. Patients that have an underbite must brush very carefully along the gum line to ensure all areas are reached.
Medical treatment may be needed to correct an underbite. Braces or dental appliances can be used in some cases to help move the jaw into place. For severe cases that cannot be corrected with braces or a dental device, oral surgery may be recommended.
WHAT IS UNDERBITE JAW SURGERY AND WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES?
Underbite jaw surgery is a surgical procedure that is done to realign the jaws. This surgery helps to restore jaw functionality, and make chewing and speaking easier. Surgery helps to relieve any pain or obstructed breathing, and prevent further damage to the teeth or gums. The goal is to create the best dental bite, and restore the jaw to function properly. After surgery orthodontic treatment is typically recommended and some customized treatment plans can be made for each patient.
LOOKING FOR ORAL SURGERY OPTIONS NEAR YOU?
If you are interested in finding out more about jaw surgery in Miami, Aventura, Pembroke Pines, or Hallandale Beach our team is here to help. At Center for Dental Implants our patients are always in good hands as we provide the highest level of care. We are the preferred oral surgery specialists near you and always welcome new patients to our office!
