Dental Underbite vs Skeletal Underbite: What’s the Difference?
Introduction
Not all underbites are the same. Understanding whether an underbite is dental or skeletal is critical when determining treatment options.
This distinction often determines whether jaw surgery is necessary or whether a restorative approach may be possible.
Dental Underbite
A dental underbite occurs when the position of the teeth causes the lower teeth to sit in front of the upper teeth.
In these cases:
- the jaw bones may be relatively normal
- the bite discrepancy is related primarily to tooth position
- restorative or orthodontic treatment may be considered
Dental underbites are often the type most likely to be addressed with non-surgical approaches.
Skeletal Underbite
A skeletal underbite occurs when the lower jaw is positioned significantly forward relative to the upper jaw.
This is typically caused by differences in jaw development.
Skeletal underbites often require:
- orthodontic treatment
- orthognathic jaw surgery
Why Diagnosis Matters
Determining whether an underbite is dental or skeletal requires careful evaluation.
This may include:
- bite analysis
- facial analysis
- dental examination
- imaging
Accurate diagnosis allows the dentist to recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Non-Surgical Options
In certain adult patients with dental underbites, restorative treatment may improve the bite relationship without repositioning the jaw.
The Kurpis Method™ is one such approach designed to help select patients explore alternatives to jaw surgery.