What Causes an Underbite?
An underbite is primarily caused by an imbalance in the size or position of the upper jaw and lower jaw. The main factors that can contribute to an underbite include:
- Genetics: This is the most common cause of an underbite. If a person’s parents or close relatives have an underbite, it’s more likely they will develop one too.
- Habits in early childhood: Certain habits in infancy or early childhood can also contribute to the development of an underbite. These include prolonged use of a pacifier or bottle, thumb-sucking, or excessive use of a sippy cup.
- Tumors or growths: Abnormal growths or tumors in the jaw can lead to an underbite.
- Cleft palate or lip: These conditions can alter the structure of the mouth and jaw, leading to an underbite.
- Injuries: Trauma to the face, especially at a young age, can affect the growth and development of the jaw, potentially leading to an underbite.
- Poor dental health: Missing or extra teeth, or other dental problems, can impact the alignment of the teeth and jaw.
Benefits of Correcting Underbites
When you fix an underbite, you experience several benefits, including:
- Improved facial appearance
- Improved speech
- Better oral function
- Reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease
- Prevention of future oral health problems
- Improved quality of life
- Reduced pain and discomfort
- Reduced risk of tooth extraction
How Does Invisalign Fix an Underbite?
Though severe underbites often necessitate jaw surgery due to the jawbone’s involvement, moderate and mild underbites can be effectively treated using Invisalign. The custom-made clear aligners gradually move the lower teeth back and the upper teeth forward to address the misalignment, aiming to align the upper and lower jaw over time.
The Invisalign process begins with a consultation with Dr. Manning, who will evaluate your bite and create a custom treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. They’ll create your custom plan by taking a 3D digital scan of your mouth.
Once your treatment plan is in place, you’ll receive a series of clear aligners you’ll wear for about two weeks each. Each set of aligners will gently shift your teeth into the desired position, and you’ll return to Dr. Manning’s office every few weeks to confirm your treatment is progressing as planned.
For an underbite, special devices known as “precision cuts” may be incorporated with the aligners. These tiny slits in the aligner can accommodate elastics that help exert the necessary pressure to correct the underbite, providing extra assistance in moving the lower jaw back and the upper jaw forward.
