An underbite can affect the way your teeth meet, how comfortably you chew, and the overall balance of your smile. In some cases, it is mild, while in others it may become more noticeable over time. This often raises an important question: how can you fix an underbite? The answer depends on your age, the type of bite problem, and what is causing the misalignment.
What Is an Underbite?
An underbite is a type of bite misalignment where the lower front teeth extend past the upper front teeth when the mouth closes. In a healthy bite, the upper teeth usually sit slightly ahead of the lower teeth.
Causes of an Underbite
Underbites can develop because of several factors, including:
- Tooth alignment problems: Teeth may grow or tilt in positions that affect how they meet.
- Jaw development differences: The lower jaw may grow farther forward, or the upper jaw may not develop enough.
- Genetic factors: Jaw structure, facial growth patterns, and tooth positioning can be inherited.
- Childhood habits: Long-term thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or prolonged pacifier use may influence bite development.
A dental evaluation can help identify whether the problem comes from tooth position, jaw structure, or both.
What Happens If an Underbite Is Left Untreated?
Some mild underbites may not cause noticeable issues immediately, but untreated cases can create dental concerns over time.
Potential problems may include:
- Uneven tooth wear caused by improper bite pressure
- Increased chances of chipped or damaged teeth
- Difficulty biting and chewing certain foods
- Jaw discomfort caused by uneven forces
- Speech concerns in some patients
- Difficulty maintaining proper oral hygiene
Treating an underbite is not only about improving the appearance of your smile. A properly balanced bite can support better comfort, function, and long-term oral health.
How Do Dentists Diagnose an Underbite?
Diagnosing an underbite involves more than looking at how the front teeth overlap. A dentist also checks how the teeth, jaws, and bite work together to understand what is causing the misalignment.
During the evaluation, the dentist may review:
- How the upper and lower teeth meet when you bite
- The position and angle of individual teeth
- Jaw alignment and facial balance
- Digital scans, X-rays, or other dental images
- Any difficulty with chewing, speaking, or jaw movement
The main goal is to determine whether the underbite is dental or skeletal.
- A dental underbite is mainly caused by the position of the teeth, while the jaw relationship is relatively normal. These cases may often respond well to orthodontic treatment.
- A skeletal underbite develops when the size or position of the jaws contributes to the bite problem. Treatment planning depends on the severity of the jaw difference, the patient’s age, and whether facial growth is still continuing.
How Can You Fix an Underbite Without Surgery?
Many underbites can be improved without surgery, especially when the problem involves tooth positioning rather than major jaw differences.
| Treatment | Best For | How It Helps |
| Braces | Teens and adults with moderate underbites | Moves teeth gradually using brackets, wires, and elastics. |
| Invisalign | Mild to moderate dental underbites | Uses clear aligners to gradually improve tooth position. |
| Early Treatment for Children | Children with developing bite or jaw concerns | Uses expanders or growth-guiding appliances while the jaw is still developing. |
Note: Treatment time varies depending on age, bite severity, and the type of correction needed. A dental evaluation can determine whether a non-surgical option, such as braces or Invisalign, is suitable for your underbite.
How Can You Fix an Underbite in Adults?
Fixing an underbite in adults depends on whether the problem comes from tooth position, jaw structure, or both. Mild dental underbites may often be treated with:
- Traditional braces
- Invisalign clear aligners
These treatments can improve tooth alignment but cannot significantly change the position of fully developed jawbones.
For more complex skeletal underbites, treatment may require coordinated care between orthodontic and surgical specialists. A detailed evaluation helps determine the most appropriate option based on bite severity, oral health, and treatment goals.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix an Underbite?
The cost of underbite treatment varies depending on the treatment option, complexity, duration, and insurance coverage.
Estimated treatment costs may include:
| Treatment Option | Average Cost Range |
| Traditional braces | $3,000–$7,000 |
| Invisalign clear aligners | $3,000–$8,000 |
| Palatal expanders or growth appliances | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Jaw correction procedures | Varies based on treatment complexity |
A consultation is required to determine the exact cost of treatment. Your dental provider can explain available treatment options, insurance benefits, and financing solutions based on your specific needs.
How Long Does It Take to Fix an Underbite?
The timeline for fixing an underbite depends on your age, severity of the condition, and chosen treatment method.
Typical timelines include:
- Children receiving early treatment: Depends on growth patterns and treatment goals
- Braces treatment: Around 18 to 30 months
- Invisalign treatment: Often 12 to 24 months for suitable cases
- Complex cases: May require longer treatment planning
After treatment, retainers are generally recommended to help maintain results and reduce the risk of teeth shifting.
Your Next Step Toward a Healthier Bite
An underbite can often be improved with the right treatment approach, whether through braces, Invisalign, early intervention, or coordinated care for more complex cases. The first step is understanding what is causing the bite concern. A professional evaluation can help identify suitable options based on your oral health, age, and treatment goals.
Book Your Underbite Consultation in Sterling, VA
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Amear Tadros at Lake Center Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Sterling, VA to discuss your underbite concerns and available treatment options. The team will evaluate your bite, explain your options, and help you understand whether Invisalign, braces, or other dental solutions are appropriate for your needs.
Call 703-214-0291 to book your appointment or visit 46090 Lake Center Plaza Suite 202, Sterling, VA 20165 to begin your journey toward a healthier, more comfortable bite.
FAQs
How can you fix an underbite without surgery?
You can fix some underbites without surgery using treatments such as braces, Invisalign, elastics, or growth-guiding appliances for children. The right option depends on whether the concern involves tooth alignment or jaw development.
Can braces fix an underbite?
Yes, braces can correct many dental underbites by gradually moving teeth into improved alignment. However, severe jaw-related underbites may require additional treatment planning.
Can Invisalign fix an underbite?
Invisalign may help correct mild to moderate underbites caused by tooth positioning. A dental evaluation is needed to determine whether clear aligners are suitable for your specific condition.
