Personalized Solutions to Improve Bite Function, Comfort, and Facial Balance
An underbite occurs when the lower teeth extend beyond the upper teeth, creating an imbalance between the jaws that can affect chewing, speech, comfort, and the appearance of your smile. At DiFranco Orthodontics, we specialize in diagnosing and correcting underbites using advanced orthodontic treatments tailored to each patient’s needs.
Our board-certified orthodontists — Dr. Paul DiFranco, Dr. Omar Souman, and Dr. Jessica Hedger — provide comprehensive underbite treatment in Park Ridge, IL, serving families throughout Park Ridge, Des Plaines, Edison Park, Rosemont, and Harwood Heights. With a combination of state-of-the-art technology and personalized care, we help patients achieve healthier bites and long-lasting functional improvements.
An underbite (Class III malocclusion) occurs when the lower jaw protrudes forward, causing the bottom teeth to overlap the top teeth. The severity can range from mild to significant, depending on how the jaws and teeth are positioned.
Underbites are often caused by:
Because underbites affect both the teeth and the jaw, early evaluation is key to preventing future complications.
Treating an underbite early helps avoid long-term complications. Benefits include:
At DiFranco Orthodontics, we evaluate both dental and skeletal factors to create a treatment plan that supports long-term comfort and function.
We offer several effective treatment options for underbites, depending on the patient’s age, the severity of the misalignment, and the underlying cause.
For mild to moderate dental underbites, Invisalign® can be an excellent solution. Custom clear aligners gradually shift teeth into better alignment without the need for metal brackets. Invisalign® may also be paired with elastics to correct bite discrepancies.
Clear ceramic braces offer the precision of fixed orthodontics with a more discreet appearance. They are ideal for teens and adults who want a cosmetically appealing option that also corrects bite issues.
Traditional metal braces remain the most effective treatment for more complex underbites. They allow for precise control of tooth movement and can correct a wide range of bite discrepancies.
For growing children, early orthodontic intervention may include palatal expanders, partial braces, or growth modification appliances to guide jaw development and prevent severe underbites later in life.
Elastics can be used with braces or aligners to encourage proper jaw alignment, improving the relationship between the upper and lower arches.
In severe skeletal cases, corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) may be combined with orthodontics to achieve ideal alignment and facial balance.
At DiFranco Orthodontics, we use a comprehensive digital workflow to diagnose underbites accurately and precisely. Your bite assessment may include:
Our orthodontists design a detailed treatment plan that addresses the structural causes of the underbite, not just the visible symptoms, ensuring long-term stability and improved function.
Families across Park Ridge, Des Plaines, Edison Park, Rosemont, and Harwood Heights trust us because we offer:
Our mission is to help every patient feel confident, comfortable, and informed from the first consultation through treatment completion.
If you or your child is experiencing bite discomfort, difficulty chewing, or concerns about jaw alignment, we are here to help. Schedule your consultation at DiFranco Orthodontics, conveniently located at 401 W. Talcott Rd., Park Ridge, IL 60068, to learn which treatment options are best for your unique needs.
Call (847) 318-7711 today to schedule your appointment or request your consultation online.
We proudly serve Park Ridge, Des Plaines, Edison Park, Rosemont, and Harwood Heights, helping our community achieve healthier smiles with expert orthodontic care.
Jenny was wonderful during my son’s first braces appointment. She was patient, kind, and explained everything clearly. We had a great experience and truly appreciate her care and professionalism.
Amazing staff and dr. Always on time with schedule and no wait. Free professional dentistry.
We love the flexibility and care here!