An underbite occurs when the lower jaw protrudes forward, causing the lower teeth to sit in front of the upper teeth when the mouth is closed. While some children may have a mild underbite that causes few problems, more pronounced cases can significantly affect oral health, speech development, and even self-esteem. Understanding the potential consequences of an untreated underbite helps parents make informed decisions about their child's dental care. At AOMS Pediatric & Children's Dentistry, we specialize in identifying bite abnormalities early and guiding families through appropriate treatment options that support healthy development.

The oral health implications of an underbite extend far beyond cosmetic concerns. When teeth don't align properly, they experience uneven pressure during chewing, which can lead to excessive wear on certain teeth, enamel erosion, and an increased risk of chips or fractures. Children with underbites often struggle to bite into food effectively, which may cause them to favor one side of their mouth or avoid certain foods altogether. This misalignment also makes thorough brushing and flossing more challenging, as overlapping or crowded teeth create hard-to-reach spaces where plaque and bacteria accumulate. Over time, this can increase the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other dental complications that require more extensive treatment.

Concerned about your child's bite alignment? Our team at AOMS Pediatric & Children's Dentistry is here to help. Call us at (806) 410-1919 or schedule a consultation online to have your child's dental development evaluated by our experienced pediatric specialists.

Speech development is another area where an underbite can have a noticeable impact. The position of the teeth and jaw plays a crucial role in how we form sounds, and children with significant underbites may struggle with certain consonants and word pronunciations. Sounds that require the tongue to touch the upper teeth or the roof of the mouth, such as "s," "z," "t," and "d," can be particularly difficult. Some children develop a lisp or other speech patterns as they unconsciously compensate for their jaw positioning. While speech therapy can help improve articulation, addressing the underlying structural issue often produces the most comprehensive and lasting results. Early intervention through pediatric dental services can help identify these concerns before they significantly impact your child's communication skills and confidence.

Beyond the physical effects, an underbite can influence a child's emotional well-being and social interactions. Children become increasingly aware of their appearance as they grow, and visible dental irregularities can become a source of self-consciousness or teasing from peers. Some children may avoid smiling, speaking up in class, or participating in social activities because they feel embarrassed about how their teeth look. Addressing an underbite not only improves function but can also boost your child's confidence during these formative years. Our compassionate team understands the importance of creating a positive dental experience, and we work closely with families to develop treatment plans that prioritize both oral health and emotional comfort.

Treatment for an underbite varies depending on the severity of the condition and the child's age. In younger children whose jaws are still developing, early intervention may involve growth modification appliances or other orthodontic approaches that guide proper jaw alignment as the child grows. These treatments take advantage of natural developmental processes to correct the bite more easily than would be possible once growth is complete. For older children or more severe cases, a combination of orthodontic treatment and other interventions may be recommended. The key is early detection—regular dental checkups allow our team to monitor your child's jaw development and recommend treatment at the optimal time for the best outcomes.

If you've noticed signs of an underbite in your child, such as difficulty chewing, speech challenges, or visible jaw protrusion, early evaluation is essential. Contact AOMS Pediatric & Children's Dentistry at (806) 410-1919 or request an appointment through our website to discuss your child's needs with our caring team.

Prevention and early detection remain the cornerstones of managing underbites effectively. Certain childhood habits, such as prolonged thumb sucking, pacifier use, or tongue thrusting, can contribute to bite abnormalities. Our team provides guidance on helping children break these habits at appropriate ages to support healthy jaw development. We also recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven, when the jaw and permanent teeth are developing rapidly. This early assessment doesn't necessarily mean immediate treatment—often, we simply monitor development and intervene only if needed. However, having this baseline allows us to identify potential issues before they become more difficult to correct.

Give your child the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles and clear speech. Call AOMS Pediatric & Children's Dentistry today at (806) 410-1919 or visit our contact page to schedule your child's comprehensive dental evaluation. We look forward to partnering with your family on your child's dental health journey.