March 28, 2024
We get a lot of questions about underbites and how to fix them, so we thought this would be a great opportunity to share our thoughts with you about this topic.
What is an underbite? It is that slight misalignment where your lower teeth jut out a bit more than your upper teeth when you close your mouth. The technical definition is: occlusion in which the lower incisor teeth overlap the upper.
How do we fix this? First things first, let's talk about the diagnosis. If you've noticed that your lower teeth seem to be playing peek-a-boo whenever you smile, and you're wondering if it's something that needs fixing. Cue the orthodontist! These dental wizards are experts in diagnosing and treating various dental issues, including underbites.
Your journey typically begins with a consultation at Somerville Orthodontics. This is a friendly chat with your orthodontist, where you get to express your concerns and goals for your smile. Dr. Lee would then conduct a thorough examination, which might include X-rays, photographs, and possibly 3D scans of your teeth. This helps him get a clear picture of your bite and jaw alignment.
Once Dr. Lee confirms if you indeed have an underbite, he will discuss your treatment options and his recommendations to correct your bite and straighten your smile. Oftentimes we can accomplish this with orthodontics and elastic bands alone, or various skeletal appliances (depending on age), however in some cases oral surgery may be the best option in combination with orthodontic treatment. If that is something we need to explore we will guide you and support you through the process.
Now, let's talk about the journey to fix that underbite. Brace yourself (pun intended, again) because it's a bit of a commitment, but totally worth it in the end. If you go the traditional braces route, you'll be making regular visits to Somerville Orthodontics to adjust your braces and ensure everything is progressing as planned. It might feel like a marathon at times, but remember, every adjustment is a step closer to that perfect smile.
If you choose clear aligners, you'll still have regular check-ins with Dr. Lee, but the process might feel a bit more flexible since you can remove the aligners when needed. Plus, no need to worry about food getting stuck in your braces!
Throughout your treatment journey, Dr. Lee will be your trusted guide answering questions, and cheering you on every step of the way. And before you know it, voilà! Your underbite is a thing of the past, replaced by a confident, radiant smile that you'll be proud to show off.
So, if you find yourself on the quest for a straighter smile and bid farewell to that underbite, remember that Dr. Lee and the team at Somerville Orthodontics are just a consultation away. Embrace the journey, trust the process, and get ready to dazzle the world with your beautiful smile!
CLICK BELOW TO START YOUR SMILE JOURNEY TODAY!