An underbite is one of the most common dental-related conditions that you can develop. Usually, it’s a condition already apparent in childhood, but there are some reasons why it might only show later on in life (or later than the traditional growth spurt).
What Happens When You Have an Underbite?
If you have an underbite, the first sign that’s likely to appear is misalignment of the top-and-bottom jaw. It might be painful or uncomfortable, although not all cases experience that. Here’s what you can expect when visiting your dentist or dental surgeon with the suspicion of having an underbite (and what can be done about it from there).
How is an underbite diagnosed?
Dentists can sometimes identify an underbite by plain sight. Consequently, most doctors will immediately order basic x-rays of the jaw in order to establish what your jaw (and everything that’s connected to it) is doing. This is done for safety reasons, documentation reasons and so that a doctor knows how to proceed from there in the way that’s safest for your body.
Can an underbite be corrected?
If you have been officially diagnosed with an underbite, you might be referred to a dental surgeon (or already have seen one). From there, a dental surgeon will determine the best method to fix an underbite. Sometimes it takes braces, although surgery is agreed upon by most surgeons as a fix that doesn’t take as much work (or time) as braces can.
Most cases of an underbite are easy to correct with the help of a competent surgeon and a simple procedure. This is much faster compared to the use of braces, which can cause harm and take several months to years (while generally still not correcting an underbite).
What problems can an underbite cause?
An underbite should be corrected where possible. It can cause a lot of further symptoms and health problems later down the line. In some cases of a juvenile or infant underbite, it’s not uncommon for surgeons to wait until the patient is older in order to do the surgery.
What issues can an underbite have?
Other than causing obvious discomfort, an overbite can also cause issues with cleaning. To clarify, the misalignment of teeth can cause the buildup of plaque. Furthermore, this can in turn cause an increased likelihood of developing cavities and other issues.
Sometimes bruxism (grinding, especially at night) can occur together with an under- or overbite, and it can make both conditions more painful as well as lead to dental damage and other symptoms like headaches as a result of grinding. An underbite can also increase the likelihood of jaw pain and instances such as cracking teeth. If you suspect an underbite, see your doctor or dental surgeon first.
Regency Family Dentistry Omaha | Best Omaha Dentist near Westroads Mall in Regency
Whether your teeth needs are a:
- complete exam and cleaning,
- full-mouth restoration
- or anything in between
We promise to provide you with exceptional care as we enhance the natural beauty of your smile. Below are just some of the many procedures and dental services we regularly provide to our patients – with a gentle touch, and stunning results. Your smile is our first priority, and we’ll give you something to smile about.
Preventative Dentistry
- Dental Exams
- Dental Cleanings
- Oral Cancer Exam
- Fluoride Treatment
- Sealants
- Dental X-Rays
- Home Care
- Nightguards & Mouthguards
Cosmetic Dentistry
- Dental Implants
- Composite Fillings
- Porcelain Crowns
- FixedPorcelain Bridges
- Porcelain Veneers
- Tooth Whitening
Periodontal Disease
- What is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?
- Diagnosis
- Treatment
- Maintenance
Restorative Dentistry
- Dental Implants
- Inlay Restorations
- Onlay Restorations
- Composite Fillings
- Crowns
- Dentures & Partial Dentures
- Fixed Bridges
- Root Canal Therapy
Oral Surgery
- Wisdom Teeth Extractions
