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UNDERBITES CLASS III

 

What is an underbite?

        An underbite is a malocclusion where the lower teeth extend outward farther than the upper front teeth. This can create a bulldog-like appearance in the mouth and face. Some cases can be severe causing the lower teeth to extend far forward. Other cases are milder and almost unnoticeable.

 

What causes an underbite?

·         Thumb sucking.

·         Tongue thrust when swallowing.

·         Using a pacifier in children above age 3.

·         Genetics.

·         Injury.

·         Tumors.


Why does an underbite need to be fixed?

            Patients with milder cases may not have any oral health problems but the patients with a more severe case may have the following:

·         Struggle biting food.

·         Difficulty chewing food.

·         Challenges when speaking.

·         Mouth/face pain due to misalignment

 

How does an orthodontist correct an underbite?

·         Surgery

·         Braces/Clear Aligners

·         Elastic wear

 

            Patients that have all their adult teeth can use a combination of braces and elastics. Patients that have severe cases may need to have surgery along with braces and behavior modification.

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