At Smile City Orthodontics in Sunnyvale TX, a patient with an underbite gives a thumbs up from the dental chair as two masked and gloved professionals smile beside her.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Underbite in Sunnyvale TX

An underbite happens when the lower teeth stick out further than the upper teeth when the mouth is closed. At Smile City Orthodontics in Sunnyvale, Dr. Jacob is skilled in treating this issue, which can impact both oral health and self-confidence. If not addressed, underbites may cause challenges with speaking, eating, and even lead to frequent jaw discomfort.

Causes and Risk Factors

At Smile City Orthodontics in Sunnyvale TX, a woman wearing a red sleeveless top stands against a plain grey background, holding a paper with a cartoon underbite smile in front of her mouth.

Genetics of underbite

Genetics are a major factor in the development of an underbite and often run in families. When a parent has an underbite, their child is much more likely to inherit the condition due to genetic traits.

A young person in Sunnyvale, TX is pictured with an underbite, smiling with braces while wearing a hat, blue shirt, headphones around their neck, and a backpack strap over one shoulder against a blue background—representing Smile City Orthodontics.

The role of environmental 
factors in underbite

Environmental factors have a major impact on the development of an underbite, a dental issue where the lower jaw extends further than the upper jaw.

A woman with a ponytail, dressed in a white shirt and black cardigan, sneezes into her hands—possibly from mouth breathing—in front of a plain light gray background, highlighting concerns Smile City Orthodontics in Sunnyvale, TX can address.

Mouth breathing and its relationship to underbite

Mouth breathing can change how your jaw grows. Improper tongue positioning and pressures caused by mouth breathing might affect jaw growth, leading to an underbite.

Types and Severity of Underbite

At Smile City Orthodontics, underbites are categorized into three primary types: Class I (mild overlap), Class II (moderate overlap), and Class III (severe misalignment). Each patient is carefully evaluated to identify the best solution. We also look for any temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues since that can impact the treatment plan.

Effects and Complications

of an Underbite

Most individuals visiting Smile City Orthodontics inquire about potential underbite effects. These include:

Facial appearance changes

Difficulty maintaining 
proper oral hygiene

Speech impediments

Challenges with chewing and digestion

Increased risk of tooth wear

Potential development of sleep apnea

TMJ disorders and associated pain

At Smile City Orthodontics in Sunnyvale TX, a girl with curly hair and pink sunglasses showing a slight underbite smiles on a sandy beach at sunset, with another person partially visible in the foreground.

Treatment Options for Underbite in Sunnyvale TX at Smile City Orthodontics

Our office provides distinct, comprehensive care plans meticulously tailored to individual needs, ensuring that each patient receives a personalized treatment approach that addresses their unique dental challenges, aesthetic goals, and overall oral health requirements.

Non-surgical Approaches

We offers a variety of non-surgical treatments, including:

Traditional braces
Clear aligners
Palatal expanders
Reverse-pull headgear

These solutions are designed to match every patient’s unique situation and personal lifestyle. Many residents in Sunnyvale have successfully corrected their underbite with these conservative methods.

Surgical Intervention

For severe cases, we work alongside local oral surgeons to offer complete surgical care. This option is often for adults or for cases where braces and non-surgical methods cannot fully correct the issue. Our team ensures smooth coordination between surgical and orthodontic providers to achieve the best outcomes.

FAQ

What causes an underbite?

Underbites can stem from a mix of causes such as hereditary traits, habits developed during childhood, and environmental factors. We perform in-depth examinations to figure out the exact cause of your underbite, which helps us create the most effective plan for you. Detecting the problem early often leads to more successful outcomes.

Can braces fix an underbite in adults?

Yes, braces can fix adult underbites. At our clinic in Sunnyvale, Dr. Jacob has treated many adults with varying underbite severities. Treatments can take anywhere between 18 to 36 months, depending on how complex the condition is. We provide different types of braces, including traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners, to fit your preferences and lifestyle.

Can braces fix underbites?

Yes, braces are an effective way to correct underbites. Braces work over time by applying continuous pressure to slowly move teeth into the right positions. This can align the lower jaw with the upper jaw, correcting the underbite. For more severe cases, extra treatments may be necessary to get the best results. To explore the best plan for your specific needs, schedule a free orthodontic consultation with our team at Smile City Orthodontics.