Can Braces Fix an Underbite? Options and When Jaw Surgery May Help

This guide explains causes, orthodontic options, when jaw surgery is recommended, and how treatment works for teens and adults in the Northern Territory. You’ll also find practical information on timelines, comfort, costs, and planning treatment around work, FIFO rosters, or family schedules.

A Specialist Orthodontist assessment is the best way to understand your options and likely outcomes.

What is an underbite and what causes it?

An underbite occurs when lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth. Causes include:

• Dental underbite: Tooth positions create edge-to-edge or reverse bite despite balanced jaws
• Skeletal underbite: Forward lower jaw or retruded upper jaw
• Contributing factors: Genetics, early loss of baby teeth, habits, airway patterns, and growth variations

A Specialist Orthodontist uses exams, X-rays, and digital scans to determine if teeth, jaw, or both are the primary cause. This guides whether braces/aligners alone are enough or if surgery may be necessary.

Orthodontic options for mild to moderate underbites

• Braces: Metal or ceramic braces move teeth efficiently. Elastics may be used. LightForce™ 3D-printed custom braces are an option for tailored fit.
• Clear aligners: Custom trays move teeth incrementally; attachments and elastics can enhance bite correction. Consistent wear (20–22 hours/day) is essential.
• Auxiliaries: Elastics, bite ramps, or limited expansion may be combined with braces or aligners.

When is jaw surgery considered for an underbite?

Jaw surgery may be recommended when the underbite is primarily skeletal and orthodontics alone is insufficient:

• Pronounced lower jaw or recessed upper jaw after tooth alignment
• Functional issues: biting, speech, jaw joint discomfort
• Completed adult growth where orthodontics cannot compensate

Combined care sequence:

• Pre-surgical orthodontics: Position teeth for optimal post-surgery fit
• Orthognathic surgery by an oral/maxillofacial surgeon
• Post-surgical orthodontics: Fine-tune bite and settle occlusion

How long does treatment take?

• Teens: 12–24 months, depending on complexity and growth
• Adults: 12–24 months for mild/moderate; longer if surgery is involved
• Dental Monitoring reduces in-person reviews, ideal for FIFO or regional patients
• Mild soreness is common for 1–3 days; soft foods and OTC analgesics help

Costs and payments in Australia

• Fees depend on treatment method, complexity, length, and surgery involvement
• Orthodontic treatment typically covers appliances, reviews, and retainers
• Surgical cases: orthodontics + hospital/surgeon fees
• Interest-free plans available via DentiCare; confirm terms and health fund rebates

Choosing the right provider

A Specialist Orthodontist assessment determines:

• Dental vs skeletal cause
• Best appliance for goals, lifestyle, and schedule
• Use of elastics, auxiliaries, or staged treatment
• Need for jaw surgery for long-term stability

Darwin Orthodontics serves Darwin, Palmerston, and the NT.

When treatment might not be right now

• Stable dental health required: no active decay, gum disease, or unresolved pain
• Treatment delayed if hygiene is poor or teeth are compromised
• Severe skeletal cases may still require surgery even after orthodontics

Quick FAQ

• Can braces fix an underbite? Yes for mild to moderate cases; severe skeletal cases may need surgery
• What orthodontic options exist? Metal/ceramic braces, LightForce™ braces, clear aligners with attachments/elastics
• When is surgery needed? Pronounced jaw differences that limit orthodontic results
• Treatment length for adults? 12–24 months; longer for surgical cases
• Costs in Australia? Varies by complexity and appliance; interest-free plans are available

Next step

Book a clear aligner or braces consultation with our Specialist Orthodontist team to receive a personalised plan, timeline, and discussion on whether jaw surgery is recommended.