The short answer: An underbite is when the lower jaw and lower front teeth extend farther forward than the upper front teeth — the reverse of a typical bite. Mild underbites are often correctable with Invisalign or braces, sometimes alongside an appliance that guides jaw growth in a child. More significant skeletal underbites, especially in adults whose jaws have finished growing, may need surgical orthodontics. Call (804) 747-0137 or book a free consultation to find out which applies to you.
What Counts as an Underbite
In a typical bite, the upper front teeth sit slightly in front of the lower ones. An underbite reverses that relationship — the lower jaw and lower teeth extend forward of the upper teeth, sometimes subtly and sometimes dramatically enough to change the profile of the face.
What Causes It
Underbites are usually skeletal, meaning the lower jaw has grown larger or more forward than the upper jaw, though tooth position alone can sometimes contribute. Genetics is the dominant factor; childhood habits like prolonged thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting can occasionally play a role too.
Why Timing Matters More Than With Some Other Bite Issues
Underbites are one of the clearest reasons the AAO recommends a first evaluation around age 7. Catching a developing underbite early can allow an appliance to help guide jaw growth while a child is still growing, sometimes avoiding the need for jaw surgery later. Once jaw growth is complete, usually by the late teens, a significant skeletal underbite generally can’t be corrected with an appliance alone.
How It’s Treated
In growing children, a functional appliance can sometimes help redirect jaw growth before it fully develops. Milder underbites, especially where the jaws are close to proportional, may respond to Invisalign or braces with elastics. Significant skeletal underbites in adults, where the jaw mismatch itself is the problem, typically require surgical orthodontics combined with braces for a full correction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an underbite be fixed without surgery?
Mild to moderate underbites sometimes can, especially when caught and treated during childhood growth. Significant skeletal underbites in adults usually need surgical orthodontics for a complete correction.
At what age should an underbite be evaluated?
Around age 7, per AAO guidelines, since that’s when early signs of a developing underbite are easiest to catch and address while the jaw is still growing.
Does an underbite get worse over time if untreated?
In a growing child, yes, it can become more pronounced as the jaw continues developing. In an adult whose jaw has finished growing, an untreated underbite is generally more stable but doesn’t correct itself.
Will my child definitely need jaw surgery for an underbite?
Not necessarily. Many underbites caught early respond to growth-guiding appliances and orthodontic treatment alone. Dr. Villa will give you an honest read on your child’s specific case at a free consultation.
Get a Real Answer About Your Bite
Request a free consultation or call (804) 747-0137. Villa Orthodontics is at 10120 W Broad St, Suite L, Glen Allen, VA, also serving Richmond, Henrico County, Innsbrook and Short Pump.
(804) 747-0137