A baby underbite is normal, but you should be concerned about it if it persists past the age of 4. If the underbite is also causing speech issues or trouble eating, it’s best to visit a paediatric dentist to have it corrected.
Malocclusions (a misalignment of the teeth or jaw) affect 56% of children in adolescence, according to a study published in the European Journal of Paediatric Dentistry. If left unchecked, this will result in permanent jaw or teeth problems in adulthood. Under bite treatment should be done as early as possible so that development can work alongside the procedure.
At Brisbane Paediatric Dentist, we provide surgical and non-surgical treatments for baby underbites. Most take place at the ages of 3 to 5 years old. Because we’re skilled at dealing with children of all ages, we also make sure your child feels comfortable while visiting the dentist.
If you’re a parent who wants to know more about your baby’s underbite, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand it. Whether you should be concerned will also be discussed here so that you can make the right call at the right time.
Key Takeaways
- Early treatment of an underbite has a high success rate: around 80 to 90%.
- Underbite surgery is almost never necessary, and non-surgical treatments are highly successful.
- Underbites can be caused by genetics, but most often, they are developed because of thumb-sucking, tongue-thrusting, and prolonged pacifier usage.
- A common sign of an underbite is a protruding lower jaw.
What is an Underbite in Babies?
An underbite in babies occurs when the lower jaw is positioned more forward than the top. This is known as a class III malocclusion and often requires early treatment to fix. While a baby underbite is normal and often self-correcting, it should not persist past the age of 4. If it does, you should consult a dentist.
What Causes Underbites in Infants?
The causes of underbites in infants are usually genetic. Other causes include thumb-sucking, using a pacifier past the age of 3, and habitual tongue-thrusting against the bottom layer of teeth. A child who breathes through their mouth excessively may also develop an underbite.
| Cause | Description | Age | Self-Correcting? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Genetics | Family history of underbites increases the likelihood | Any age | No |
| Jaw Development Issues | The lower jaw may grow more than the upper jaw | Infancy to early childhood | Yes (if mild) |
| Prolonged Pacifier or Thumb-Sucking | Can push teeth out of alignment | Infancy to toddlerhood | Yes (if stopped early) |
| Tongue-Thrusting | Habitual pushing of the tongue against the lower teeth | Infancy to toddlerhood | Yes (if stopped early) |
| Mouth-Breathing | Can contribute to improper jaw positioning | Any age | No |
What are the Potential Complications of an Untreated Underbite in Children?
Possible complications of an untreated underbite in children include:
- Cosmetic concerns
- Increased risk of gum disease
- Breathing problems
- Speech issues
- Difficulty chewing
- Tooth wear and damage
- Jaw pain
A toddler underbite that persists should be addressed as early as possible between the ages of 3 and 7.
Avoiding the dentist to evaluate and diagnose an underbite in babies is not a good idea. Many children suffer from dental anxiety, making parents apprehensive about taking them early on. However, knowing exactly what your options are is a good way to stay informed and proactive in addressing an underbite.
What are the Signs that a Baby Has an Underbite?
Signs that a baby has an underbite issue include visual signs of the lower jaw protruding outward, jaw clicking, and issues with feeding. If your baby has difficulty closing their mouth, this can also indicate an underbite. Other signs to look out for are irritability, discomfort, and mouth-breathing.
| Sign | Description |
|---|---|
| Lower Teeth Extend Beyond Upper Teeth | The lower teeth visibly overlap the upper teeth when the mouth is closed |
| Difficulty Closing the Mouth Properly | The baby has trouble keeping the mouth fully closed due to jaw misalignment |
| Protruding Chin | The chin may appear more prominent than usual due to the misaligned lower jaw |
| Feeding Issues | The baby may struggle with proper latching or sucking, which can cause feeding difficulties |
| Jaw Clicking or Popping | There may be noticeable clicking or popping sounds when the baby moves their jaw |
| Irritability or Discomfort | The baby may show signs of discomfort, such as fussiness or trouble sleeping, due to jaw misalignment |
| Breathing Through The Mouth | Difficulty breathing through the nose, leading to mouth-breathing, can be a sign of an underbite |
What Treatments do Dentists offer for a Baby Underbite?
Safe treatments offered by dentists to correct a baby underbite include:
- Observation over time
- Early intervention with appliances like a palatal expander or other functional appliances
- Braces for jaw correction
- Referral to an orthodontist
- Surgical intervention in very rare cases, where the severity of the underbite is high
At What Age Should a Child’s Underbite Be Evaluated by a Dentist?
A child’s underbite should be evaluated by a paediatric dentist anywhere between ages 3 and 7. Age 7 is when most dentists will provide treatment, because this is an important developmental phase of your child’s life. Early corrective treatments are safe, and will work in tandem with their natural development, eventually correcting the underbite.
Speak to Brisbane Paediatric Dentist about evaluating your child’s underbite. We’ll observe the situation and evaluate when intervention is necessary, if at all. Non-surgical treatments can usually correct the underbite. In more serious cases, surgery may be recommended, but this is extremely rare.
Baby Underbite FAQs
What is the success rate of early underbite treatments?
The success rate of underbite treatments at an early age is high. Treatment success depends on the right timing of intervention and the skill level of the dentist or orthodontist. According to a study published in BMC Oral Health, the success rate of underbite treatments is 80–90%.
How long does treatment for an underbite typically take?
Treatment for an underbite in children can take between 6 months and 2 years to reach full correction. However, this time is significantly longer for adults who address the issue much later in life. The earlier treatment is provided, the less time it will take.
Can underbites return after treatment?
Yes, an underbite can return after treatment, but only in very rare cases. If the treatment was not completed, the underbite may return. Other reasons for an underbite coming back include jaw growth changes, skeletal issues, and bone density issues in older adults.
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