Underbite Correction in Washington, DC | Georgetown Orthodontics

What an Underbite Is

An underbite — technically called a Class III malocclusion — occurs when the lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper front teeth. A mild underbite may look like just a slight edge-to-edge bite. A moderate or severe underbite produces the characteristic appearance of the lower jaw protruding forward.

Underbites are worth treating for reasons beyond appearance. An untreated underbite can affect chewing efficiency, create uneven wear on tooth surfaces, contribute to jaw joint (TMJ) problems over time, and affect speech. Caught early — in a growing child — many underbites can be corrected with orthodontic appliances alone. In adults where jaw growth is complete, the options are different.

Treatment Is Personalized

There is no single treatment for underbite. The right approach depends on the severity of the underbite, the patient's age, whether jaw growth is still occurring, and the specific anatomy of the jaw and teeth. Dr. Blackwood evaluates each case individually and presents the options that apply to that specific patient — not a generic protocol.

The evaluation is part of the free consultation. Many patients who come in expecting surgery leave with a non-surgical treatment plan. Others who expected braces alone learn that an expander would improve the result significantly. The examination determines the path.