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Welcome to
Underbite Correction |
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An underbite, also
known as a Class III malocclusion, is a common jaw
relationship found in many people. When a person has normal
occlusion, the upper and lower teeth align in such a way that
the upper teeth fit slightly over the lower teeth when
biting. When a person has an underbite, however, the mandible
(lower jaw) protrudes forward in front of the maxilla (upper
jaw), causing the lower teeth to overlap the upper teeth when
the jaw is closed. This gives the chin and lower teeth a more
prominent appearance. |
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An underbite is defined as a condition where the lower
jaw protrudes forward in front of the upper jaw, causing
the lower teeth to overlap the upper teeth. An
underbite can occur from an over-developed lower jaw, an
under-developed upper jaw, or a combination of the two. |
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There are
several ways to correct an underbite; however, patients must
first consider numerous factors before undergoing any
treatment for underbite correction. For example, patients
should take into account the amount of physical dysfunction
caused by their malocclusion, the psychological effects the
malocclusion has on their self-esteem, the severity of the
malocclusion, the amount of time the patient is willing to
devote to treatment, the risks and benefits of the different
treatment options, and the costs involved for the various
procedures. |
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One method
of underbite correction is through a procedure known as
orthognathic surgery, and this treatment modality is often
used in cases where more conservative options such as braces
cannot alone correct the malocclusion. This corrective
surgery varies in complexity depending upon the condition
causing the underbite. The surgical procedure will involve
either sectioning and advancing the maxilla (upper jawbone) to
bring the teeth forward, sectioning and removing a piece of
the mandible (lower jawbone) to bring the chin and teeth back,
or a combination of the two procedures. |
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While orthognathic
surgery can be an excellent treatment option for many patients
with moderate to severe underbites, there are several factors
that must be considered before undergoing this extensive
treatment option. One major consideration is the cost
involved. In many cases insurance alone will not cover
orthognathic surgery, and surgery costs can be quite high.
Furthermore, orthodontic treatment is often needed in
conjunction with surgery, adding to the overall cost of
treatment. Other considerations for surgery include the
length of time involved for the treatment both pre and
post-operatively, the level of discomfort associated with the
surgical procedure, and the potential risks and complications
including infection, lip numbness, and consequential openbite,
among others. |
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| Underbites can be fixed! Correct your
underbite at the beautiful Kurpis Cosmetic Dentistry treatment
center located in Ridgewood New Jersey.
Dr Kurpis has been serving patients from New Jersey NJ, Manhattan NYC New York, CT Connecticut,
Long Island, and around the world for over 35 years. |
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