A dental professional in blue scrubs and mask examines a patient's teeth for signs of an underbite in a well-equipped dental office. The patient, seated comfortably, wears a protective dental bib in Greenville, SC

Diagnosis and Treatment of Underbite in Greenville SC

An underbite occurs when your lower teeth extend beyond your upper teeth when your mouth is closed. At Tollison Orthodontics in Greenville SC, Dr. Blake Tollison specializes in treating this condition, which can affect both your oral health and confidence. If left untreated, underbites may cause problems with speaking, eating, and might lead to ongoing jaw pain.

Causes and Risk Factors

Person in a blue shirt touches their cheek with a pained expression, possibly indicating a toothache or discomfort from an underbite, set against a plain background in Greenville, SC.

Genetics of underbite

Underbites are often inherited, with genetics being a primary contributor. If someone in the family has an underbite, there is a greater chance that a child will develop the condition.

Young woman with braces and an underbite, wearing a bun hairstyle, stands against a purple background. She smiles warmly, dressed in a striped shirt over a gray t-shirt, playfully pointing both hands to the sides in Greenville, SC.

The role of environmental 
factors in underbite

Environmental factors also play a role in forming an underbite, which occurs when the lower jaw protrudes past the upper jaw.

A person in a red shirt yawns with eyes closed, covering their mouth with one hand against a plain background, slightly revealing an underbite, indicating mouth breathing in Greenville, SC

Mouth breathing and its relationship to underbite

Mouth breathing can interfere with normal jaw development. Poor tongue placement and the pressure from this habit may increase the risk of developing an underbite.

Types and Severity of Underbite

At Tollison Orthodontics, underbites are classified into three categories: Class I (mild alignment issues), Class II (moderate overlap), and Class III (extensive protrusion). Each patient is closely examined to develop the most effective treatment solution. Additionally, any involvement of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues is evaluated, as it may influence the treatment approach.

Effects and Complications

of an Underbite

Patients often visit Tollison Orthodontics because of the challenges underbites can create, including:

Facial appearance changes

Difficulty maintaining oral hygiene

Speech impediments

Challenges with chewing and digestion

Increased risk of tooth wear

Potential development of sleep apnea

TMJ disorders and associated pain

A dentist examines a patient's mouth for signs of an underbite using dental tools. The patient, seated in a dental chair and wearing a blue bib, watches as the dentist, dressed in gloves, a mask, and a white coat, conducts a careful assessment in Greenville, SC

Treatment Options for Underbite in Greenville SC at Tollison Orthodontics

We offer a variety of treatments designed to address each patient’s unique needs and concerns.

Non-surgical Approaches

We offers various non-surgical treatment options at our Greenville office, including:

Traditional braces
Clear aligners
Palatal expanders
Reverse-pull headgear

These treatments are unique for each patient’s specific needs and lifestyle requirements. Many patients have successfully corrected their underbites through these conservative approaches.

Surgical Intervention

For severe cases, we work alongside trusted oral surgeons in the Greenville area to offer comprehensive surgical solutions. This option is generally considered for adult patients or for situations where orthodontic procedures alone aren’t sufficient. Our team ensures a seamless process by coordinating between orthodontic and surgical care to achieve the best results.

FAQ

What causes an underbite?

The causes of an underbite can vary, including genetic predisposition, environmental factors, or childhood habits. Our thorough evaluations allow us to identify the key reason behind each patient’s underbite and craft the most effective treatment plan. Catching the problem early on can often lead to better results.

Can braces fix an underbite in adults?

Absolutely! Adults can effectively treat their underbites using braces and other orthodontic methods. Here in Greenville, Dr. Blake Tollison has successfully improved the smiles of adult patients dealing with a range of underbite cases. Treatment plans typically last between 18 to 36 months, depending on the complexity of the condition. Options such as traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners are available to match various preferences and lifestyles.

Can braces fix underbites?

Yes, braces are a reliable choice for correcting underbites. They work by gradually applying pressure to align the teeth and improve the position of the jaw. In some cases of severe underbite, additional procedures may be required to achieve ideal results. Consulting our orthodontist, Dr. Blake Tollison, is the first step to creating a customized plan tailored to your specific needs.