Underbite

An underbite happens when the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth. Some cases are mild while others affect bite function and tooth wear. Orthodontic treatment such as clear aligners or braces can often improve bite balance.

Signs of an underbite
Lower front teeth sit ahead of upper teeth
The lower jaw appears more prominent
Biting or chewing may feel uneven
Teeth may chip or wear unevenly
What an underbite means

An underbite occurs when the lower teeth bite in front of the upper teeth. In some people the cause is tooth position, while in others it relates to the jaw relationship.

Orthodontic treatment focuses on improving tooth position and bite contact. In more complex cases, jaw position may also influence the treatment plan.

Why underbites happen

Jaw relationship: the lower jaw sits further forward.

Tooth position: upper teeth tipped back or lowers tipped forward.

Growth patterns: bite relationships often develop during childhood.

Compensation: teeth may shift to adapt to the bite.

Common treatment options
Clear aligners: sometimes suitable when tooth position is the main factor.
Braces: often recommended when bite control or more complex movement is needed.
Problems related to underbite
Overbite

Upper teeth sit too far over the lowers.

Learn about overbite →
Crossbite

Upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth.

Learn about crossbite →
Crowded teeth

Crowding may affect bite alignment.

Learn about crowded teeth →
Teeth sticking out

Tooth position can influence bite balance.

Learn about protruding teeth →
Understanding Underbite

How Underbite Treatment Usually Works

Underbites can affect how the teeth meet and how the bite functions.

Orthodontic treatment focuses on improving tooth position and bite alignment.

Assess the bite
Orthodontists evaluate tooth position and jaw relationship.
Plan treatment
Aligners or braces may be recommended depending on severity.
Guide teeth
Teeth gradually move into improved alignment.
Maintain results
Retention helps keep teeth stable after treatment.

Takes about 5 minutes • No obligation

1. Assess the bite
Bite evaluated.
2. Plan treatment
Treatment planned.
3. Guide teeth
Teeth move gradually.
4. Maintain results
Retention maintains results.
Treatments
Problems
Explore your options
Quick links

Not sure where to start? Use these quick links to explore orthodontic treatments, typical costs, and helpful guides that explain what different options involve. Whether you're researching braces or clear aligners, comparing pricing, or just getting a feel for what comes next, you can browse at your own pace and come back when you're ready to request a quote.

Want to see if underbite can be straightened?

A guided photo assessment can show whether your alignment looks like crowding, relapse after braces, or a bite pattern that orthodontic treatment could improve.

Takes about 5 minutes • No obligation

An unhandled error has occurred. Reload 🗙