Underbite Surgery – Everything you should to know

Definition of underbite surgery

The underbite surgery, or mandibular prognathism, is a “bad bite” and occurs when a person’s lower jaw (mandible) protrudes or extends forward, and in front of the upper jaw (maxilla), giving the chin and lower teeth prominence.

Traditionally, the majority of underbite, and even overbite, cases could not be corrected by non-surgical bite correction methods, such as braces or headgear. In its severe form, the underbite can distort the shape and appearance of a person’s face, and even dramatically affect their speech.

When is underbite surgery necessary?

The wide gap between the lower jaw and upper jaw can cause concerning issues. This is when to consider getting an underbite surgery:

• Experiencing eating difficulties;
• Experiencing difficulty swallowing;
• Developing a speech impediment;
• One can’t make the lips meet without forcing themselves;
• Dealing with chronic jaw pain or jaw joint pain;
• Dealing with halitosis and bacterial infections.

There are three basic classes of occlusion:

Class 1 occlusion is considered the most ideal. However, patients can still experience TMJ problems with a Class I bite.

Class 2 malocclusion is where the lower jaw is too far behind the upper jaw, and most of these patients have overbites and small looking chins.

Class 3 malocclusion is where the lower jaw is too far in front of the upper jaw, and these patients have underbites and large chins.

Treatment of under –bite surgery

Correcting an underbite can be achieved in any number of ways, but it mostly depends on severity, age, and overall medical condition.

Treatment of underbite in children by braces

Children will typically have an easier time with fixing an underbite as their bones are not fully developed until the age of 18-21. This will make the process easier as the teeth and bones are more easily manipulated with the use of braces and other underbite teeth treatment, and once set, the results will be permanent.

Underbite Correction Surgery

Correcting an underbite in adults tends to be a bit more complicated due to maturation of bones and teeth; it will usually require surgery, followed up by the use of braces. At this point, it will become necessary to alter the jaw bones to properly align the teeth due to underbite. Based on your particular set of circumstances, your orthodontist may follow up with braces or a retainer at this point to ensure a permanent fix.

An underbite can be corrected at any age, but will need to be approached in different ways, depending on your situation.

Results may vary depending on the general health condition of the patient. In some cases, jaw surgery saves lives and surgeons are viewed as true modern superheroes. Most patients are really pleased with the end results and consider this surgery a great solution to, otherwise insolvable conditions.

BSSO – the method for lower jaw surgery

A small lower jaw and chin aren’t merely a cosmetic issue, but are likely to be a sign of snoring and disturbed chewing function.

BSSO is the classical surgical technique for increasing lower jaw length. There are limits to the advancement that can be achieved with a BSSO

BSSO Lower Jaw Surgery procedure:

• BSSO Surgery moves your lower jaw into correct alignment with your upper jaw, so that it is ideally balanced with the profile and proportions of your face.
• Your teeth may need to be orthodontically aligned before undergoing Lower Jaw Surgery. This is done so that your upper teeth and lower teeth mesh together into a correctly functioning bite after surgery.
• We design your BSSO Surgery procedure with precision 3D Surgical Simulation software. This allows you to visualise the outcome of your surgical procedure before you decide to proceed with treatment.
• Your 3D Surgical Simulation is then used to produce customized surgical plating. These ensure we achieve highly complex surgical movements, with results that have excellent predictability and stability.

Book your consultation

During the consultation you discuss all your wishes and expectations with the surgeon. The doctor will inform you whether the procedure can meet your expectations.

All the information regarding your Underbite Surgery is also provided during the consultation: the method that will provide you with the best result, the possible risks involved in your treatment and the aftercare.

Call us on 09 6868 1111 to arrange your appointment immediately.