Diagnosis and Treatment of Underbite in Pasco WA

At Andros Orthodontics in Pasco, WA, a doctor uses a tongue depressor to examine a woman's throat for signs of an underbite.
An underbite occurs when the lower teeth extend past the upper teeth when the mouth is closed. At Andros Orthodontics in Pasco, Dr. Nicholas Andros is highly skilled in treating this condition, which can impact both oral health and self-confidence. If left untreated, underbites may cause problems with speaking, eating, and even lead to chronic jaw pain.

Causes and Risk Factors

A woman in a red sleeveless top stands against a plain light background, holding a paper with a cartoon smile of white teeth over her mouth to conceal her underbite—an image representing Andros Orthodontics in Pasco, WA.

Genetics of underbite

Genetics is a major factor in the development of underbites and often runs in families. If a parent has an underbite, their child is more likely to have one due to inherited traits.

A young woman with short black hair and braces, displaying a slight underbite, smiles and gestures upward and to the side against a plain white background—an image representing Andros Orthodontics in Pasco, WA.

The role of environmental 
factors in underbite

Environmental factors also significantly contribute to underbites, a condition where the lower jaw grows beyond the upper jaw. Allergies or respiratory issues that lead to mouth breathing can interfere with natural jaw growth.

A man in glasses and a white polo shirt, possibly concealing an underbite by covering his mouth with one hand, stands against a plain white background at Andros Orthodontics in Pasco, WA.

Mouth breathing and its relationship to underbite

Mouth breathing caused by allergies or respiratory issues can disrupt normal jaw growth. Improper tongue positioning and pressure from consistent mouth breathing may impact jaw alignment, potentially leading to an underbite.

Types and Severity of Underbite

At Andros Orthodontics, underbites are divided into three primary categories: Class I (mild overlap), Class II (moderate overlap), and Class III (severe protrusion). Each patient’s condition is thoroughly evaluated to identify the most suitable treatment plan. Additionally, we assess any involvement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), as it can impact treatment choices.

Effects and Complications

of an Underbite

Most patients who visit Andros Orthodontics commonly share concerns about the potential complications associated with underbites. These complications may include:

Facial appearance changes

Difficulty maintaining 
proper oral hygiene

Speech impediments

Challenges with chewing and digestion

Increased risk of tooth wear

Potential development of sleep apnea

TMJ disorders and associated pain

At Andros Orthodontics in Pasco, WA, a dentist uses dental instruments to examine a patient’s open mouth for issues such as an underbite.

Treatment Options for Underbite in Pasco WA at Andros Orthodontics

Our clinic provides a wide range of treatments and services, each carefully designed to address the unique needs of every patient.

Non-surgical Approaches

We offer various non-surgical treatment options at our Pasco office, including:

Traditional braces
Clear aligners
Palatal expanders
Reverse-pull headgear

These treatments are personalized to address each patient’s unique needs and fit their lifestyle. Numerous residents have achieved successful results in correcting their underbites with these non-surgical methods.

Surgical Intervention

For severe cases, we collaborate with local oral surgeons to deliver comprehensive surgical solutions. This approach is generally recommended for adult patients or in cases where orthodontic treatment alone cannot achieve the desired results. Our team ensures smooth collaboration between orthodontic and surgical care to provide the best outcomes.

FAQ

What causes an underbite?

Underbites can result from various factors, including heredity, certain childhood habits, and environmental influences. At Andros Orthodontics, we perform detailed evaluations to identify the specific cause of your underbite to create an individualized treatment plan. Early intervention often ensures better results.

Can braces fix underbites?

Yes, braces are one of the most effective tools for fixing underbites. They work by applying steady pressure to move teeth and align the lower jaw with the upper jaw over time. Depending on the underbite’s severity, additional treatments may be necessary to achieve the best outcome. Consult with Dr. Nicholas Andros in Pasco to evaluate your condition and discuss the most appropriate solution.