Does an underbite affect facial appearance?
Underbite refers to anterior crossbite, which usually affects facial appearance. The specific details are as follows:
Anterior crossbite is typically caused by genetic factors, improper breastfeeding positions, or facial trauma. It can lead to symptoms such as disordered occlusion and altered speech. In terms of facial appearance, it may manifest as mandibular protrusion and underdevelopment of the maxilla, resulting in a concave facial profile. Therefore, anterior crossbite does affect facial shape. If individuals concerned about their appearance do not receive timely treatment, the worsening condition may lead to changes in the jawbone structure, altering facial appearance and affecting overall aesthetics.
If an individual develops anterior crossbite, it is recommended to visit a hospital for appropriate evaluation and, under medical guidance, undergo suitable treatment. If anterior crossbite is detected at a very young age, removable orthodontic appliances can be used to move the upper front teeth forward, correcting the crossbite. However, if the condition is severe with skeletal deformities, surgical intervention may be necessary.