You already understand the importance of good dental health. It will prevent tooth decay, gum diseases, tooth decay, and other oral problems. The state of your dental health will also have an impact on your overall health.

One condition that will affect your health is an underbite. So, what is an underbite?

An Underbite Explained 

Typically, the front teeth slightly overlap the bottom ones. When this alignment is interrupted, a condition known as an underbite occurs. An underbite occurs when the lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper teeth.

Causes Of An Underbite

Underbites are mainly hereditary. They are genetically passed from one person to the other. Many individuals with this type of condition were born with it; it is something the runs within the family.

In some other cases, underbites can be caused by some childhood behaviors. Some of these behaviors include mouth breathing, excess thumb sucking, using the bottle or the pacifier for an extended period, constant tongue thrusting against the teeth, and bad chewing habits.

Reasons Why You Should Treat Your Underbite

Underbites rarely correct themselves; they require some kind of intervention. If you don’ treat yourunderbite, you will experience specific symptoms. You will start experiencing difficulties and pain when chewing.

Even if you are not noticing complications now, symptoms will start to arise eventually with your age. As time progresses and with wear and tear, the enamel will start eroding, causing gum diseases, infection, tooth decay, and infection.

The longer you wait, the more difficult it is to treat underbites. The earlier you seek treatment, the better the outcome.

Complicationswith Underbites

Underbites are known to cause some complications to a patient’s physical and mental health. Some of the common complication to encounter with underbites includes:

Misaligned Teeth 

The protruding bit will put pressure on teeth as they grow to bring about a misalignment.

Tooth Breakage and Decay 

Wear and tear associated with underbites will erode the enamel weakening the teeth in the process. When that happens, it is easy for the teeth to break or to decay.p\

Pain

The protruding jaw will put pressure causing some pain in the jaw. The pain can translate into earaches and headaches, which further causes a chronic joint condition known as TMJ.

Difficulties in Breathing, Swallowing, Chewing and Speaking 

Depending on how severe the underbite is, it can affect one’s ability to chew and swallow properly. You might also experience slurring and lisping when you are talking.You can also experience breathing difficulties, especially when you are sleeping. Sleep apnea and are a common condition for underbites patients.

Infections and Gum Disease

Underbites will cause tooth decay, thus creating a breeding ground for bacteria, a situation that can cause gum diseases and infections.

Altered Face Shape

An underbite will dramatically alter someone’s face. The chin might jut out or even appear to be bigger than it really is. The conditions can make someone appear to be prematurely aging. 

Low Self-Esteem 

With day-to-day symptoms such as chronic pain, altered face shape, and difficulties in speaking and eating can really affect a patient’s mental health and lower their self-esteem.