You can have an underbite corrected through surgery. This type of jaw correction procedure is recommended for people with a Class 3 malocclusion, or severe underbite. The following information gives you more details about this type of bite.
What Is an Underbite?
We diagnose people with severe underbites whose lower teeth overlap the upper teeth. This type of alignment happens because of a larger lower jaw and is also called prognathism. This means that the lower jaw projects forward. Usually, the mandible or lower jaw is overdeveloped while the maxilla or upper jaw is underdeveloped. Most underbites run in families or are genetically based.
Why Should an Underbite Be Corrected?
Besides how it affects a person's appearance, an underbite makes it harder to bite or chew, or can lead to early erosion and tooth decay. Therefore, orthodontics and surgery may be used to correct an underbite or veneers may be added in very mild cases. If surgery is required, we need to x-ray the jaw to see what sections of bone can be removed to create a more perfect dentition.
Correcting an Underbite
It can take time to correct a Class 3 malocclusion. We will work diligently to review the interrelationship of the bones, joints, and teeth to determine how a patient's skeletal and dental problems are interfering with their dentition. From this assessment, we can develop a treatment plan customized to a patient's surgical needs. Irregularities, such as jaw size and shape, or the crowding of teeth cannot be prevented and therefore may require surgical intervention. If we don't correct this type of bite problem, speech problems, enamel loss, and sleep problems can develop or will continue. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain may be an issue too.
Do you have an underbite that needs correction? If so, we can assist you with a bite problem. By setting up an exam and consultation, we can review your dentition and alignment and find out the best course of jaw corrective surgery for you. Give us a call today to arrange an appointment for an exam and consultation.
Dental Blog | Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery | Allentown, PA Check out the dental blog that Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Allentown, PA put together to educate our patients. Lehigh Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 1251 S Cedar Crest Blvd #311, Allentown, PA 18103 \ (610) 435-6161 \ lehighoms.com \ 10/10/2024 \ Page Keywords: oral surgeon Allentown PA \
You can have an underbite corrected through surgery. This type of jaw correction procedure is recommended for people with a Class 3 malocclusion, or severe underbite. The following information gives you more details about this type of bite.