Can An Underbite Cause Speech Problems?

Underbites can make it hard to pronounce certain words and sounds. These types of malocclusions can also result in other speech problems such as a lisp or slurring. Orthodontic treatment, sometimes combined with speech therapy, can correct these issues.

Can An Underbite Cause Speech Problems? What You Need To Know

Jaw alignment and speech are closely intertwined. Thus, underbites can be common causes of speech problems. Aside from aesthetics, speech difficulties are some of the primary reasons many children and adults seek orthodontic treatment. In some cases, orthodontic treatment alone can successfully correct a speech impediment. In other cases, speech therapy may be recommended as a complementary therapy.

While common, speech issues aren’t the only problems caused by underbites. Other complications of untreated malocclusions can include bad breath, jaw pain, and breathing difficulties. [1] Indirectly, an underbite could also lead to social and interpersonal issues related to low self-esteem, especially in children.

Your orthodontist may take a unique approach to your orthodontic treatment plan, depending on your specific case. Some of the popular options for treating an underbite include retainers, braces, and jaw surgery. Without treatment, speech impediments may cause ongoing communication and self-esteem issues.

What is an Underbite?

An underbite is a common orthodontic condition that occurs when a person’s lower teeth and jaw protrude farther out compared to the upper teeth and jaw. Orthodontists refer to underbites as class III malocclusions. Underbites may be genetic or may be caused by prolonged pacifier use or thumb-sucking in early childhood.[2] Other causes might include mouth breathing or tongue thrusting.

Symptoms of an Underbite

Most people prefer the look of a proper bite, when the upper front teeth slightly overlap the bottom front teeth. However, cosmetic concerns aren’t the only negative consequences of an underbite. Other symptoms of an underbite may include: [3]

• Jaw pain and discomfort
• Repeatedly biting the inside of the mouth
• Problems completely closing or opening the mouth
• Breathing difficulties
• Bad breath
• Speech difficulties

If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of an underbite or similar issue, ask your doctor or dentist for a referral, or call the office directly. In some cases, your insurance plan may cover some or all of the costs associated with treatment when orthodontic issues impact speech.

Speech Difficulties Caused by Underbites

Speech difficulties may be some of the most troublesome consequences of underbites. It can result in communication issues as well as low self-esteem for those affected. Specifically, class III malocclusions like underbites are the most common culprits for speech problems, including:

• Trouble pronouncing the “s” and “t” sounds along with other consonants
• Slurring words
• Speaking with a lisp

Speech Therapy for Underbite

Speech therapy for underbite speech issues is not uncommon. If your child has a noticeable speech impediment, their pediatrician or school teacher may recommend speech therapy. Parents can also request a speech evaluation if they have concerns about their child’s communication or speech development.

Speech therapy can help with a variety of speech problems, including those caused by underbites and other malocclusions. Since speech impediments associated with underbites are caused by a misalignment of the teeth and jaw, orthodontic treatment is almost always recommended in conjunction with speech therapy.

Can You Correct an Underbite?

The majority of underbites can be corrected, but this often requires orthodontic intervention. An experienced orthodontist can evaluate your bite during an office visit and recommend a course of orthodontic treatment for speech problems caused by underbite. While every case is different, common treatment plans for underbites include: [5]

• Tooth extraction
• Palatal expanders
• Retainers
• Headgear
• Braces
• Clear aligners like Invisalign
• Jaw surgery

Contact Your Orthodontist

If you or your child have a visible underbite or symptoms of an underbite, reach out to your dentist or orthodontist as soon as possible. Early identification and treatment of this type of underbite can result in less invasive options and quicker outcomes. A brighter smile and clearer speech could be just a call away.

Frequently Asked Questions About Underbites