Can an Underbite Be Fixed Without Jaw Surgery?
Introduction
Many adults who are told they have an underbite assume that jaw surgery is their only option. Orthognathic surgery has traditionally been used to correct significant bite discrepancies, but advances in restorative dentistry have created alternative approaches for certain patients.
Today, some underbites may be improved without surgery by using carefully planned restorative techniques that change the relationship between the upper and lower teeth.
What Is an Underbite?
An underbite is a type of malocclusion where the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth when the mouth is closed.
Underbites may affect:
- Facial appearance
- Smile aesthetics
- Bite function
- Tooth wear
- Jaw joint comfort
Some underbites are skeletal, meaning the position of the jaw bones causes the problem. Others are primarily dental in nature, meaning the issue is related to the teeth rather than the jaw structure.
Traditional Treatment
Historically, severe underbites have been treated with:
- Orthodontics
- Orthognathic jaw surgery
Jaw surgery typically involves repositioning the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both to achieve a proper bite relationship.
While effective, this approach can involve:
- hospital surgery
- months of recovery
- orthodontic treatment before and after surgery
A Restorative Alternative
For certain adults, restorative dentistry may offer another option.
Rather than moving the jaw bones, a restorative approach focuses on improving the way the teeth meet when the mouth closes.
This may involve:
- redesigning the biting surfaces
- improving bite harmony
- restoring teeth with advanced materials
- improving smile aesthetics
When carefully planned, this can dramatically change both the smile and the bite relationship.
The Kurpis Method™
Dr. Albert J. Kurpis of Ridgewood, New Jersey developed the Kurpis Non-Surgical Underbite Correction Method™, a restorative approach designed to help certain patients improve an underbite without jaw surgery.
The goal is to restore both function and aesthetics while avoiding invasive surgical procedures whenever possible.
When Surgery May Still Be Necessary
It is important to understand that not all underbites can be treated without surgery.
Severe skeletal discrepancies may still require orthognathic surgery.
A comprehensive examination is required to determine which treatment approach is appropriate.
Learn More
If you have been told that you need jaw surgery for an underbite, it may be worthwhile to explore whether a restorative alternative exists.
Learn more about non-surgical underbite correction and the Kurpis Method™.