What is an Underbite?
An underbite refers to the structure and placement of the teeth and is often contrasted with overbite. In an overbite, the front top teeth stick out far above the bottom teeth. An underbite is perhaps more pronounced, the lower front teeth are in front of the top teeth, and the lower jaw can be much more prominent. The condition can be minor and barely noticeable or very noticeable, and it can result in greater risk of tempero-mandibular joint disorder, poor bite, and wearing of the teeth unevenly. A discussion of underbite often leads orthodontists to explain why early orthodontic treatment may be essential for some kids. When children are young, usually under the age of eight, their mouths and jaws are much easier to reshape. Older kids, teens, and adults may have a challenging time getting an underbite corrected. Severe cases may require surgery on the jaws, teeth extraction, and very long use of braces to correct the problem. In most instances an underbite is correctable at any age
