A Parent's Guide to Underbites: Expert Advice from Your Local Canberra Orthodontist at Wei Orthodontics
Checking that your child’s dental development is on track can be a good idea. Some kids develop an underbite during growth and this can usually be picked up fairly early on. Dr Robert Wei, our specialist orthodontist in Canberra, recommends that all kids have an initial screening by the age of 7 so that issues such as underbites can be picked up early.
An underbite occurs when the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth. This can be an issue that affects not just your child's appearance but also their overall dental health. Underbites also tend to get worse with time, especially during puberty.
At Wei Orthodontics, your trusted Canberra orthodontist, we are dedicated to helping families in Canberra tackle underbites efficiently and effectively. Our goal is to ensure your child not only achieves a confident smile but also enjoys optimal oral health, both in the short- and long-term. Here's what you need to know about underbites, their causes, potential problems they may cause, and the effective treatment options available.
Causes of Underbites
Underbites can be distinguished by three main causes:
due to the relative position of the upper and lower teeth and can be worsened due to the child shifting the lower jaws forward to find a comfortable bite
due to the relative position of the upper and lower jaws in respect to each other and the rest of the face
a combination of both teeth and jaw relationships
Often we find that underbites run in families and there is a strong genetic contribution to their development. We often ask families if there are any family members (parents, aunts/uncles or grandparents) who also have underbites.
Issues that can arise as a result of an Underbite
The most common issue with an underbite is the undue wear along upper and lower adult front teeth due to the irregular and premature contact of these teeth. We have also had kids report that they feel self-conscious due to their underbite and this can be another reason why we tend to like to look at addressing underbites early.
Treatment options for an Underbite
There are a number of treatment options available for managing underbites, and it depends on the underlying cause of the underbite as well as the age of the patient
for patients with underbites which are solely based on the position of the teeth themselves, addressing the positions of these teeth would be sufficient to achieving a satisfactory result
for patients with an underlying jaw issue, the treatment options can vary due to the progression of the underbite during puberty and the severity of the discrepancy between the jaws
At Wei Orthodontics, we pride ourselves on our patient-centered approach, providing personalised, in-person care. If you’re concerned about an underbite affecting your child’s health or self-esteem, reach out to us, your expert Canberra orthodontist. Early orthodontic intervention for issues like underbites can significantly enhance your child’s quality of life and their overall dental health.
Schedule a consultation with Wei Orthodontics today, and let us help your child achieve the healthy, beautiful smile they deserve.
