Can an Underbite Get Worse With Age?

Introduction

Many adults wonder whether an underbite will change over time. In some cases, an underbite may become more noticeable as years pass.

Understanding why this happens can help patients decide when to seek evaluation and treatment.

Over time, natural tooth wear can gradually change the way the teeth fit together.

As the surfaces of the teeth wear down, the bite relationship may shift, making an underbite appear more pronounced.

Back teeth play a major role in maintaining bite stability.

When molars are lost or heavily worn, the bite can collapse, altering the relationship between the upper and lower teeth.

This can contribute to the appearance or progression of an underbite.

The muscles used for chewing place continuous forces on the teeth.

Over decades, these forces can gradually influence tooth position and bite alignment.

Many adults first notice their underbite becoming more prominent when looking at photographs or seeing changes in their smile.

An underbite can influence:

Adults with underbites may have several treatment options depending on the cause of the condition.

Some cases require orthodontics or surgery, while others may be addressed using restorative approaches that improve the bite relationship.

Patients interested in alternatives to jaw surgery may wish to learn about underbite correction without surgery and whether they are candidates.

Learn more about non-surgical underbite correction and the Kurpis Method™.