When to Correct an Underbite: The Right Time for Orthodontic Treatment
An underbite, where the lower teeth extend beyond the upper teeth when biting, can impact not only the appearance of your smile but also your oral health. Correcting an underbite at the right time is crucial to prevent long-term issues like jaw pain, tooth wear, and speech difficulties. But when is the right time to seek orthodontic treatment for an underbite?
Understanding an Underbite
An underbite, or Class III malocclusion, can range from mild to severe. It often occurs due to the misalignment of the lower jaw, making the lower teeth sit ahead of the upper teeth. Several factors can contribute to an underbite, including genetics, habits such as thumb sucking, or even prolonged pacifier use.
When Should an Underbite Be Corrected?
While underbites can sometimes be addressed during adulthood, early intervention is often recommended. Here are the key stages when an underbite may be corrected:
1. Early Childhood (Ages 7-9)
The best time to evaluate an underbite is around age 7. At this stage, a child’s jaws are still developing, and early treatment can guide growth to prevent more severe issues later on.
- Orthodontic Evaluation: The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. This allows an orthodontist to detect any potential problems, including an underbite, and create a treatment plan.
- Early Intervention: For mild to moderate underbites, early intervention can include orthodontic appliances like a palatal expander or headgear. These tools can gradually guide the growth of the upper jaw, preventing the need for surgery later.
2. Pre-Teens and Early Teens (Ages 10-14)
In cases where an underbite persists into pre-teen or early teen years, orthodontic treatment becomes even more crucial. At this stage, children have a mix of baby and adult teeth, and their jaws are still flexible enough for orthodontic correction.
- Braces and Appliances: Braces combined with elastics or other orthodontic appliances can help align the upper and lower jaws. For moderate to severe cases, additional appliances may be needed to guide jaw growth.
- Growth Modification: During these years, orthodontists often use growth modification techniques to encourage proper jaw development and prevent further complications. Treatment is most effective while the jaws are still growing.
3. Adolescence and Adulthood (Ages 15 and Older)
Although early treatment is ideal, underbites can still be corrected in older teens and adults. However, at this stage, the jaws have stopped growing, making treatment more complex.
- Braces or Clear Aligners: For mild cases, traditional braces or clear aligners like Invisalign or Angel Aligners may be sufficient to correct an underbite by moving the teeth into the correct position.
- Surgical Correction: For severe underbites where the jaw alignment is significantly affected, orthognathic surgery may be necessary to reposition the jaw. This is often combined with braces for optimal results.
Why Is Early Correction Important?
Correcting an underbite early can prevent more serious issues in the future. Here’s why timing matters:
- Jaw Development: In children, early treatment can guide jaw growth, reducing the likelihood of needing surgical correction later on.
- Oral Health: An untreated underbite can lead to issues like uneven tooth wear, gum disease, and difficulty chewing, all of which worsen over time.
- Speech and Confidence: Underbites can affect speech development and self-esteem, especially in children. Correcting the problem early can improve both functional and aesthetic concerns.
Orthodontic Solutions for Underbites
At Broadbeach Orthodontics, we offer a range of treatments to correct underbites, from early childhood interventions to adult braces and surgical solutions. Whether your child is just starting their orthodontic journey or you’re an adult looking to improve your smile, we have the expertise to find the best solution for you.
Book Your Orthodontic Consultation Today
Concerned about an underbite? Schedule a consultation at Broadbeach Orthodontics, and let Dr. Amesha Maree and her team develop a personalised treatment plan for you or your child. We’re committed to providing a relaxed, family-friendly experience, and we put you and your family first every step of the way.
