How to Fix an Underbite: Understanding Your Treatment Options

If your lower teeth sit in front of your upper teeth when you bite together, you may have an underbite.

Orthodontists describe this as a reverse overjet or, in some cases, an anterior crossbite. While the terminology may sound technical, the important thing to know is that underbites can often be successfully treated, and the earlier some are identified, the better.

At Apex Orthodontics, we provide personalised underbite treatment for children, teenagers and adults throughout the Gold Coast.

What is an underbite?

An underbite occurs when the lower front teeth bite in front of the upper front teeth.

Some underbites involve only one or two teeth, while others are caused by differences in the growth of the upper and lower jaws.

The treatment depends on what’s causing the problem, not just what it looks like.

What causes an underbite?

Common causes include:

• Genetics
• Differences in jaw growth
• Teeth erupting into an incorrect position
• Early loss of baby teeth
• Certain oral habits

Some underbites are mainly dental, while others are skeletal, meaning the jaws themselves are positioned differently.

Why should an underbite be treated?

Not every underbite requires treatment, but significant underbites can:

• Affect chewing efficiency
• Increase tooth wear
• Place excessive forces on certain teeth
• Influence facial balance
• Make cleaning more difficult
• Affect confidence when smiling

Treating the underlying cause helps create a healthier, more functional bite.

Can an underbite be fixed without surgery?

Often, yes.

Many underbites caused primarily by tooth position can be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone.

This may include:

• Braces
• Invisalign clear aligners
• Elastics
• Other orthodontic appliances

Whether surgery is needed depends largely on the relationship between the upper and lower jaws.

Why early treatment can make a difference

Some children with developing underbites benefit from early interceptive orthodontic treatment.

When treatment is carried out during growth, we may be able to influence jaw development and reduce the severity of the bite later in life.

Not every child requires early treatment, but an orthodontic assessment allows us to determine the best timing.

What if I’m an adult?

Adults can absolutely have an underbite corrected.

For mild to moderate dental underbites, braces or Invisalign may be all that’s required.

For more significant skeletal underbites, the best long-term outcome may involve orthodontic treatment together with orthognathic (jaw) surgery.

If surgery is recommended, we’ll explain exactly why and work closely with an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon throughout your treatment journey.

Why patients choose Apex Orthodontics

Choosing an orthodontist is about more than straight teeth.

At Apex Orthodontics, we believe in honest conversations, personalised care and treatment that’s guided by what’s genuinely best for each patient.

You’ll never be rushed through your consultation. Instead, we’ll take the time to understand your concerns, explain your options clearly and develop a treatment plan that suits your goals.

Book an Underbite Consultation

If you’re looking for an experienced Gold Coast orthodontist to assess an underbite or anterior crossbite, we’d be delighted to help.

Whether you’re a parent wondering if your child needs treatment or an adult exploring orthodontic options, we’ll guide you through every step with clear advice and personalised care.

A healthy bite does more than improve your smile. It supports lifelong oral health and confidence.