Underbite Treatment in Jacksonville, FL

An underbite is a condition where your lower teeth extend past your upper teeth when your mouth is closed. At Bold Bite Orthodontics in Jacksonville FL, Dr. Marty Greenberg specializes in addressing this issue, which can affect your oral health and self-esteem. If not treated, underbites can lead to challenges in speaking and eating while potentially causing persistent jaw discomfort.

Causes and Risk Factors

In Jacksonville FL, a woman in a red sleeveless top holds a card with an illustrated wide smile in front of her mouth, playfully highlighting her underbite against a plain gray background.

Genetics of underbite

Genetic factors significantly contribute to the likelihood of developing an underbite, often running in families. If a parent has this condition, the probability of their child having one is markedly increased due to hereditary influences.

In Jacksonville FL, a young woman with braces, wearing a striped shirt over a gray t-shirt, stands in front of a purple background and points to the sides, proudly showing her progress in correcting an underbite.

The role of environmental  factors in underbite

Environmental influences are important in developing an underbite, a dental issue where the lower jaw is positioned in front of the upper jaw. Mouth breathing due to allergies or respiratory problems can disrupt typical jaw development.

In Jacksonville FL, a person in an orange shirt yawns with one hand covering their mouth, momentarily exposing an underbite against a plain white background.

Mouth breathing and its relationship to underbite

Mouth breathing, often caused by allergies or respiratory issues, can impact normal jaw growth. Abnormal tongue posture and pressure from mouth breathing may affect jaw development, potentially resulting in an underbite.

Types and Severity of Underbite

At Bold Bite Orthodontics, we categorize underbites into three main groups: Class I (mild overlap), Class II (moderate overlap), and Class III (severe protrusion). We thoroughly review each patient’s situation to establish the best treatment method.

Effects and Complications 
of an Underbite

Most patients visiting Bold Bite Orthodontics express worries about complications related to their underbite. These can 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

In Jacksonville FL, a dentist wearing gloves and a mask uses dental tools to examine a patient’s mouth for conditions like an underbite while the patient sits in a dental chair.

Treatment Options for Underbite in Jacksonville FL at Bold Bite Orthodontics

Our office offers a variety of care services, tailored to meet specific needs of patients.

Non-surgical Approaches

We have a range of non-surgical treatment alternatives at our Jacksonville, Florida office, including:

Traditional braces

Clear aligners

Palatal expanders

Reverse-pull headgear

These treatments are designed based on each patient’s unique requirements and lifestyles. Many patients have successfully corrected their underbites through these conservative approaches.

Surgical Intervention

For more severe cases, we partner with local oral surgeons to provide comprehensive surgical options. This is generally reserved for adult patients or severe instances where orthodontic treatment alone isn’t adequate. Our team guarantees smooth coordination between orthodontic and surgical care for the best outcomes.

FAQ

What causes an underbite?

Underbites can arise from various influences, including genetics, childhood habits, and environmental factors. We conduct detailed evaluations to identify the specific cause of your underbite, allowing us to devise the most effective treatment plan. Early detection and intervention typically yield better results.

Can braces fix an underbite in adults?

Yes, correcting underbites in adults is achievable with braces and other orthodontic treatments. At our Jacksonville office, Dr. Marty Greenberg and Dr. Trang Cao have effectively treated numerous adult patients with various levels of underbite severity. Treatment typically lasts from 18 to 36 months, depending on the complexity of the case. We provide different brace options, including traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners, to match our patients’ preferences and lifestyle needs.

Can braces fix underbites?

Yes, braces can be a successful solution for correcting underbites. They apply continuous pressure over time, slowly moving teeth into proper alignment. This process can assist in aligning the lower jaw with the upper jaw, addressing the underbite. However, depending on the severity of the underbite, additional treatments may be necessary for optimal results. It’s advisable to consult an orthodontist to evaluate your particular situation and determine the most suitable treatment strategy.