October 16, 2024
When it comes to your child's smile, timing can make all the difference.
An underbite, though common, can affect everything from chewing and speaking to self-confidence.Â
So, what age is best to fix an underbite? The answer may surprise you!Â
Correcting this issue at the right stage of development can lead to more effective results, less invasive treatments, and a smoother orthodontic journey.Â
Let’s dive into why early intervention is key and explore the best time to take action for a healthier, more confident smile.
An underbite is a dental condition where the lower front teeth extend beyond the upper front teeth, often caused by the lower jaw protruding further than the upper jaw.Â
In a normal bite, the upper front teeth should slightly overlap the lower front teeth, allowing the upper and lower molars to meet correctly when the mouth is closed.
Mild underbites may go unnoticed, but in more severe cases, the misalignment can impact your appearance and lead to noticeable symptoms.
Understanding what age is best to fix an underbite is crucial because timing can significantly affect the success of treatment.Â
During childhood, the jaw is still growing and developing, making it easier to guide the bones into proper alignment with orthodontic treatments. By addressing the underbite early, less invasive methods like braces or expanders can be effective, helping to avoid more complex interventions later in life.
This window of opportunity is vital because the jaw bones are more malleable in these early years, meaning they can be shaped and guided with less resistance. Once the jaw reaches full maturity in the late teen years or adulthood, correcting an underbite often requires surgical intervention.Â
Acting within this key developmental period allows for smoother, more efficient treatment and can prevent long-term complications.
At this stage, the jaw is still developing, making it the ideal time to use non-invasive treatments like expanders and retainers. Early intervention helps guide jaw growth effectively, potentially avoiding the need for surgery later. It's a proactive approach that takes advantage of the jaw's flexibility during childhood.
During this period, orthodontic treatments like braces, elastics, and headgear can correct moderate underbite cases. Since the jaw is still growing, these treatments remain effective, though they may require more time and adjustment than in earlier years. It's a crucial phase for aligning teeth as the jaw nears maturity.
By the late teens, the jaw has typically stopped growing, and more severe underbites may require surgical options. Orthognathic surgery is often combined with braces to correct the misalignment. While the process is more invasive, it's still possible to achieve excellent results and improve both function and appearance.
A mild underbite might not present any noticeable problems, but a severe one can cause the jaw to protrude visibly. This misalignment can lead to several symptoms that could indicate that it’s time to fix an underbite.Â
Some of these symptoms could be:Â
If you've noticed your child developing an underbite, it's crucial to consult with your dentist and schedule an orthodontist appointment as soon as possible. Early treatment, typically between the ages of 7 and 10, is often the most effective time to address the issue.Â
Methods like widening the upper jaw can help ensure permanent teeth grow in a better position. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children with underbites should see an orthodontist by age 7 to determine if early treatment is needed. For those who require it, early intervention can offer significant benefits.