A member asked:

What orthodontic procedures have to be done to correct an underbite?

13 doctors weighed in across 7 answers

Underbite treatment: What has to be done to correct an underbite depends on a variety of factors. It may require extraction of teeth to relieve crowding. It will definitely require braces for 18-24 months. If the lower teeth are out in front of the upper teeth, it may require corrective jaw (orthognathic) surgery to obtain the best result.

Answered 12/13/2012

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Depends: Underbites are amenable to treatment. The factors that determine how are age, severity, genetic proclivity and cooperation. In many young patients who present with a posterior crossbite too, respond well to a full acrylic coverage rapid expander, a strong lower arch 2x4, lower lingual and strong continuous class 3 elastics, loose naso-maxillary sutures and elastics will protract the maxilla well.

Answered 1/18/2013

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Depends on the cause: The best way to determine the type of treatment options are available for your specific situation is to seek an opinion with an orthodontic specialist. Depending on the severity, the etiology, the patients age, etc. The treatment may be as easy as minor tooth movement in a pre-teen, more complex with full braces and possibly extractions, to possibly oral surgery.

Answered 2/22/2013

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Dr. Louis Sterling answered

Specializes in Prosthodontics

Braces &/or surgery: First the cause of your underbite must be determined. It can be dental or skeletal. Braces are first needed to align your teeth in each arch. If dental only then braces +/- extractions are sufficient treatment. If a skeletal reason exists also, then surgery is needed in addition to braces (to align the actual jaw bones).

Answered 10/23/2017

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Orthodontics: I would consult an orthodontist (preferable one who is board certified) to see what they think they can do for you.

Answered 12/10/2013

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Patient dependent: Every patient is unique. It is best to see and orthodontist and let them determine a plan based on qualified information. Then have an informative conversation that can answer all your questions to your satisfaction.

Answered 3/12/2015

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Severity: Is cause dental, skeletal, or both? No two malocclusions are alike. Treatment of Class III malocclusions can be difficult to exceptionally difficult. See a qualified Orthodontic Specialist to learn what you need and how treatment can be best achieved.

Answered 11/20/2014

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Related Questions

A member asked:

What can be expected after orthognathic jaw surgery to correct underbite?

7 doctors weighed in across 4 answers