An underbite is a type of malocclusion where the lower front teeth are positioned behind the upper front teeth when your mouth is closed. In fact, an underdeveloped jaw or poor muscle tone can cause this problem, and it’s more prevalent in kids than adults. Usually, it’s caused by problems with an individual tooth or teeth, rather than by a more widespread issue.
It is important to be able to identify common signs in order to know when you need a Fullerton family orthodontist to diagnose and treat underbite. So, we’ve created this informative blog post that identifies the most common sign of an underbite.
- Trouble opening or closing your mouth all the way
If you’re having trouble opening or closing your mouth all the way, it’s most likely because of an underbite. In fact, an underbite can actually cause pain that makes opening and closing your mouth laborious.
- Discomfort or pain while speaking or chewing
This is another sign of an underbite. Because the lower front teeth aren’t being held in position, they can cause irritation and become a source of discomfort when you chew or speak. In fact, one of the most common complaints by an underbite patient is difficulty in speaking and chewing.
- Biting the inside of your mouth
Many underbite patients have a tendency to bite the inside of their mouths while chewing or talking. This can cause sores and ulcers, which tend to bleed easily. If you are suffering from this common sign of an underbite, then it is a sign that you might have to see an orthodontist.
- Difficulty breathing
One of the most common signs of an underbite is a poorly developed airway under the lower front teeth. This can cause breathing difficulties because the airway can get obstructed from time to time.
- Jaw pain
If you are suffering from an underbite, it can cause your jaw to become tense. This can leave you with a sore jaw, which is painful and uncomfortable. You should consider a full orthodontic treatment plan when you see such a sign.
- Bad breath
Bad breath is another common sign of an underbite. On one hand, the overcrowding of teeth can allow various types of bacteria to grow and contribute to bad breath. In addition, an underbite may also cause the tongue to rub against gum tissue in a way that also contributes to bad breath.
