A small underbite adds character to a smile, but sometimes, it’s not that easy to live with. From chewing to speech, it can introduce some challenges. Luckily, the question of how to fix an underbite has been solved – with multiple treatment options, as well. Let’s break them down and help you find your path to a comfortable, confident smile!
How to Fix an Underbite – A Brief Overview of Possible Treatments
Fixing an underbite doesn’t always require surgery – in fact, non-surgical options are much more common. Traditional braces have been a go-to solution for teeth alignment, but recently, clear aligners have been gaining popularity as a more comfortable and convenient alternative.
What Is an Underbite Exactly?
An underbite, also known as prognathism or a Class III malocclusion, is a unique dental condition. It’s characterized by the lower set of teeth extending further forward than the upper set. This could be barely noticeable and not require dental treatment, or it could seriously compromise your everyday life.
Why Do People Have Underbites?
Most of the time, underbites are inherited. Actually, genetics play a big part in not just the shape and the size of your teeth but also in the structure of your jaw.
Other than genetics, childhood habits such as thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and using the pacifier past the age of 3 increase the risk of underbite development. In some cases, it’s a result of a dental injury.
Why Is It Important to Know How to Correct an Underbite?
Even though our practice of cosmetic dentistry in Charlotte, NC, can handle underbites, the treatment isn’t just about aesthetics. While you might be able to live with a mild case, it’s still a good idea to schedule a dentist appointment and get it checked out. Why? Well, it can result in other oral health issues, including:
- Difficulty chewing food,
- Speech impediment,
- Issues with breathing,
- Excessive wear and tear on the front teeth,
- Bad breath (halitosis),
- Sleep apnea,
- Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
What Does the Ideal Teeth Alignment Look Like?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, 5-10% of people have an underbite. Everyone else? Overbite. And if you think there’s been some sort of a mistake, you should know that having a slight overbite is actually a characteristic of the “perfect” teeth alignment.
In a picture-perfect smile, your molars, the sturdy back teeth, should fit together like puzzle pieces with the ones on the opposite jaw. Up front, your incisors should align neatly between the top and bottom rows. Medically speaking, this is what makes a smile “perfect.”
Can You Fix an Underbite Without Surgery?
One of the methods for fixing underbites is oral surgery. But before you start dreading even calling your Charlotte dentist in South Park, don’t worry – this type of procedure is reserved only for extreme cases. Underbite correction without surgery is much more common.
Can Braces Fix an Underbite?
Braces have long been the classic solution for underbites, overbites, crowded teeth, and other misalignments. They work by applying gentle, consistent pressure that gradually shifts teeth into their proper positions.
Because the teeth and jaw are still growing, making adjustments during childhood is the easiest. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends getting kids checked by age 7. However, while braces can deliver an amazing smile makeover, they do take some time to get used to, especially when it comes to knowing what to eat. That’s where clear aligners come to the rescue!
How to Fix Underbite Naturally – The Most Comfortable Solution
How to correct underbite without the uncomfortable brackets and wires? Is it even possible? Absolutely! Clear and nighttime aligners are becoming quite popular solutions.
Clear aligners can be just as effective, but on top of that, they’re much more comfortable, entirely removable, and the treatment is quicker.
Aspire Dental Wellness Offers a Wide Range of Options
With our cosmetic dentist in Charlotte, NC, your smile is in expert hands! We offer a couple of top-tier brands of clear aligners, including OrthoFX and Spark™. We’ll work together to find the perfect match for your dental condition and overall lifestyle.
Led by the experienced Dr. Sladjana Bjelac, our team is committed to a holistic approach, crafting treatments as unique as your one-of-a-kind smile. Underbites can take a toll on a person’s self-esteem, so comfort and confidence are always our top priorities, from the moment you step through our doors right up until you walk out beaming with that new, radiant smile.
OrthoFX Is the Perfect Choice for a Straighter, Whiter Smile
The OrthoFX are nearly invisible aligners that are custom-made to fit your pearly whites like a glove, offering unmatched comfort. Made from a polymer called FXTetra Bright™, they don’t just straighten your teeth – they also give them a natural boost in brightness. The journey to a more radiant smile has never been so effortless!
Our Team Is Here to Help You Bite Into Confidence!
An underbite or any other type of misalignment doesn’t have to hold you back! Our team at Aspire Dental Wellness will make sure to find the perfect solution for your smile. Your Charlotte, NC, dentist will guide you through every step, providing a treatment that is as comfortable as it is effective. Contact us today, and let’s get to work on transforming your bite – and your confidence!
