An underbite is a type of malocclusion where the lower teeth sit further forward than the upper teeth when the mouth closes. Mild cases may be barely noticeable; in more severe cases there is a visible gap between the upper and lower jaw.
Underbites are most often inherited, but they can also follow from childhood habits or under-development of the upper jaw. Most underbites benefit from treatment — both for function and for longer-term oral health.
Information on this page is general and not a substitute for a clinical assessment. Suitability, treatment time and cost are confirmed in writing after an in-person consultation with a GDC-registered dentist. Outcomes vary between patients.
Unlike some overbites, underbites do not naturally correct themselves. The longer they are left, the harder they tend to be to treat. An untreated underbite can contribute to:
Treatment is usually easier and more predictable in younger patients while the jaw is still developing. Adult underbites can still be treated, often with a combination of approaches.
Upper jaw expander. Used in younger patients whose upper jaw is under-developed. The expander gradually widens the upper jaw so that the upper teeth can meet the lower teeth correctly. Usually followed by a retainer.
Reverse-pull headgear. A removable appliance used in younger patients to gently pull the upper jaw forward. Typically worn at night and at home, it can reduce or avoid the need for surgery later in life when used early enough.
Fixed braces. Used to move the teeth into their corrected position, often alongside other appliances. Less visible options (ceramic braces) are available privately.
Clear aligners. Suitable for some — not all — underbites. Aligners are near-invisible and removable. An in-person clinical assessment, including a 3D scan, is needed to confirm suitability.
Tooth extraction. If the underbite is partly caused by overcrowding in the lower arch, removing one or more teeth may create the space needed to align the rest.
Jaw (orthognathic) surgery.For severe skeletal underbites in adults, the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both may need to be repositioned surgically. Jaw surgery is not performed at London Braces; where it’s clinically indicated we’d refer you to an appropriate hospital maxillofacial team and can co-ordinate the orthodontic work needed before and after.
Underbite — treatment summary (general guide)
| Treatment | Type | Typical duration | Typical age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper jaw expander | Fixed or removable | Around 12 months + retention | Before ~13 |
| Reverse-pull headgear | Removable | Around 12 months | Before ~10 |
| Fixed braces (incl. clear aligners where suitable) | Long-term | 1–3 years + retainer | Once adult teeth are through |
| Tooth extraction | Permanent | One visit | Once adult teeth are through |
| Jaw surgery | Permanent | Recovery 2–4 weeks | Typically 16–18+ |
Related conditions
FAQs
Yes. Adult underbites can be treated, though treatment is often more involved. Mild cases may respond to clear aligners or braces alone; severe skeletal underbites may need surgery alongside orthodontics.
Most appliances cause some short-term discomfort or pressure as the teeth move, which usually settles within a few days. Surgical options have a longer recovery period — your clinician will explain what to expect.
Subtle changes to the lower face are common after orthodontic treatment, and more noticeable changes are expected after jaw surgery for severe cases. Outcomes vary between patients and are discussed in writing before treatment.
A severe underbite can contribute to airway and breathing problems, including snoring and sleep-disordered breathing in some patients. This should be assessed clinically, ideally alongside an ENT or sleep referral if indicated.
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London Braces is part of Medical and Dental Limited. Our South Kensington clinic is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC location ID 1-20629579981). All clinicians are registered with the General Dental Council.
