Underbite in Kids

Start treatment early to prevent long-term issues.

Is your child’s lower jaw pushing forward? We can help fix it before it becomes a bigger problem.

Free Consultation • In-House Financing • No Referral Needed • Serving McAllen & the Rio Grande Valley • Se habla español

What is an Underbite?

An underbite happens when the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth when your child bites down. It’s more than just a cosmetic concern; left untreated, an underbite can affect how your child speaks, chews, and grows.

There are two main types:

Dental underbite: caused by misaligned teeth
Skeletal underbite: caused by irregular jaw growth

A Perfect Smile Orthodontics can diagnose the type and recommend the most effective treatment plan.

How to Tell if Your Child Has an Underbite

Some signs may be subtle at first. Look for:

Lower teeth overlapping the upper teeth
Trouble biting or chewing food
Mouth breathing
Speech issues (such as lisp or slurred sounds)
Jaw clicking or discomfort
Facial appearance with a prominent lower jaw

If you’ve noticed one or more of these signs, don’t wait! Book a free orthodontic evaluation now.

Serving McAllen, Edinburg, Pharr, Mission, Weslaco, and the RGV

Why Early Treatment Matters

The ideal time to treat underbites is between ages 7 and 10, while your child’s jaw is still growing.

Early treatment allows us to:

Guide jaw development
Avoid or reduce the need for jaw surgery
Create room for incoming permanent teeth
Improve bite, breathing, and speech

Waiting too long can make treatment more complicated or even surgical. We want to help your child avoid that.

We offer affordable early braces options. Ask about our $99/month plans!

How We Treat Underbites in Children

Every child is different, but here are the most common treatments we use at A Perfect Smile Orthodontics:

Braces: Traditional or clear braces to guide tooth movement
Palatal Expanders: Widen the upper jaw for better alignment
Clear Aligners (for older kids/teens): Sometimes an option for mild underbites

You’ll receive a custom treatment plan based on your child’s age, bite, and growth stage.

What to Expect at Your Free Consultation

What to Expect During Your Free Consultation

Your first visit is completely free, and there’s no pressure.

Here’s what we’ll do:

Take digital scans or X-rays
Check your child’s bite and growth stage
Explain all treatment options
Answer every question you have
Review payment options and insurance

We’ll also explain whether now is the best time to start, or if we should monitor growth for a bit longer.

💬 Se habla español

Don’t Wait: What Happens if You Delay Treatment?

Waiting until the teen years or adulthood can lead to:

Jaw pain or TMJ
Difficulty eating or speaking
Need for corrective jaw surgery
Low self-confidence or teasing at school

The sooner we treat an underbite, the easier and more affordable it is to fix.

🕐 Appointments available after school and Saturdays!

Common Questions from Parents

When should I bring my child in?

We recommend an orthodontic evaluation by age 7, even if baby teeth are still present.

Will braces hurt?

Today’s braces are smaller, smoother, and more comfortable than ever. Most kids adjust within a few days.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes. We work with most major plans and also offer flexible payment options.

Is Dr. Taylor qualified to treat underbites in kids?

Yes! Dr. Taylor is a Board-Certified Orthodontist with years of experience treating underbites and other jaw issues in children. You’re in expert hands.

Schedule Your Child’s Free Evaluation Today

Let’s get your child on the path to a healthy, confident smile, without surgery.

We make it easy to get started:

Free Exam
Easy Financing
No Referral Needed
Evening & Saturday Appointments Available