Underbites can be moderate to severe in nature. In general, underbites
are where the lower jaw and teeth extend out in front of the upper
front teeth. Underbites usually have very little or no contact at
all of the front teeth. In moderate underbites, the front teeth bites
edge to edge which induces forward jaw movements resulting in trauma
and excessive wear on the front teeth. This can also cause excessive
tooth mobility on the front teeth leading to periodontal disease such
as gum recession and bone loss. Severe underbites result in tooth
contact only on the back teeth. This results in compromised chewing
and excessive wear on the back teeth.
Treatment of underbites if started early enough can prevent permanent
damage to the teeth and gums. In severe underbites, jaw surgery
may be required to reestablish proper contact if the teeth and jaws.
Correction of underbites also results in improved lip posture and facial appearance.
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