Experiencing jaw pain, speech issues, or difficulty chewing? Lower teeth sticking out past your upper teeth?
Feeling self-conscious about your lower jaw that sticks out? That prominent underbite affects more than just your appearance – it impacts how you eat, speak, and smile with confidence every day.
If you’re an ETSU student avoiding photos or a parent concerned about your child’s bite development, jaw misalignment creates daily challenges that shouldn’t be ignored.
Common underbite symptoms we treat:
• Lower jaw protrudes forward (reverse bite)
• Difficulty biting into foods properly
• Speech problems or lisping
• Jaw pain, clicking, or tension headaches
• Self-consciousness about facial profile
• Uneven tooth wear patterns
At Sturgill Orthodontics in Johnson City, we’ve transformed thousands of smiles throughout the Tri-Cities area with expert underbite correction and orthodontic underbite solutions.
Our team of four board-certified orthodontists combines cutting-edge technology with personalized care to deliver life-changing results that last.
Ready to correct lower jaw alignment? Schedule your free consultation today: (423) 471-8859
Book Your Free Underbite Evaluation
Quick Reference: Underbite Treatment at Sturgill Orthodontics
| What You Need to Know | Details |
| Johnson City Location | 801 Sunset Dr., Suite E5, Johnson City, TN 37604 |
| Additional Locations | Bristol, TN & Norton, VA |
| Phone | (423) 471-8859 |
| Treatment Timeline | 12-30 months (varies by complexity) |
| Investment | Flexible payment plans & most insurance accepted |
| Ages We Treat | Children (age 7+), teens, and adults |
| Treatment Options | Metal braces, clear braces, Invisalign, InBrace |
| Doctor Credentials | Four board-certified orthodontists |
| Consultation | Free evaluation and treatment planning |
| Scheduling | Same-week appointments available |
Understanding Underbites: The Hidden Impact on Your Life
An underbite occurs when your lower front teeth extend past your upper teeth when your jaw is closed. This type of malocclusion – technically called a Class III bite or reverse bite correction issue – affects approximately 5-10% of the population and ranges from mild to severe cases requiring comprehensive treatment.
Understanding the difference: crossbite vs. underbite
- Underbite: Lower teeth stick out past upper teeth
- Crossbite: Some upper teeth bite inside lower teeth (different issue)
Living with an untreated underbite means managing daily frustrations that others take for granted:
- Struggling to bite into foods like pizza or corn on the cob
- Speech difficulties that affect work presentations or social interactions
- Chronic jaw pain from improper bite mechanics
- Hiding your smile in photos and social situations
- Increased risk of tooth wear, gum recession, and TMJ disorders
Good news: Modern orthodontic treatment can successfully correct underbites at any age. If you’re searching for “underbite treatment Johnson City” or “orthodontist for underbite Tri-Cities,” you’ve found the right specialists.
Key Takeaway: Underbites impact function, health, and confidence – but they’re completely treatable with expert orthodontic care.
What Are the Signs Your Underbite Needs Professional Treatment?
Wondering if that jaw misalignment requires orthodontic intervention? Here are key indicators it’s time to schedule a consultation with our Johnson City orthodontists:
Functional Problems:
- Difficulty chewing food properly or completely
- Speech impediments, particularly with “s” and “th” sounds
- Jaw clicking, popping, or pain when opening/closing
- Frequent tension headaches or neck pain
- Sleep disruption from breathing difficulties
Aesthetic Concerns:
- Lower jaw appears to jut forward prominently
- Facial profile looks unbalanced or “bulldog-like”
- Lower teeth show when smiling or talking
- Feeling embarrassed about your appearance
Oral Health Risks:
- Uneven tooth wear patterns
- Gum recession from bite pressure
- TMJ/TMD symptoms worsening over time
- Increased cavities in hard-to-clean areas
Early intervention is crucial – the sooner underbite treatment begins, the more conservative and effective the approach can be. If you’re wondering where to get braces in Johnson City, our three convenient locations make quality care accessible throughout the Tri-Cities area.
Bottom Line: ✅ If you experience any of these symptoms, a free consultation can determine if orthodontic underbite solutions are right for you.
What Are Your Underbite Treatment Options in Johnson City?
Every underbite case is unique, which is why Sturgill Orthodontics offers multiple treatment approaches tailored to your specific needs, age, and lifestyle preferences. Our comprehensive approach ensures optimal results for patients throughout the Tri-Cities area.
Early Intervention for Children: Setting the Foundation
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends orthodontic evaluation by age 7 because early treatment during peak growth years can dramatically improve outcomes.
For children in Johnson City schools like Cherokee Elementary or Liberty Bell Middle School, early underbite treatment can prevent more complex problems later.
Pediatric Treatment Options:
- Palatal Expansion: Widening the upper jaw to create proper bite alignment
- Functional Appliances: Devices that guide jaw growth and positioning
- Reverse-Pull Headgear: Encouraging forward growth of the upper jaw
- Phase 1 Treatment: Addressing skeletal problems before all adult teeth emerge
Early treatment often reduces the need for tooth extractions or jaw surgery in the future, making it a wise investment in your child’s long-term oral health.
Early Treatment Benefits:
✅ Prevents more complex treatment later
✅ Works with natural growth patterns
✅ Often eliminates need for surgery
✅ Builds confidence during crucial development years
Teen Treatment: Working with Natural Growth
High school students from Science Hill, David Crockett, or Daniel Boone benefit from reverse bite correction during their teenage years when jaw growth is nearly complete but still responsive to orthodontic forces.
Popular Teen Options:
- Traditional Metal Braces: Highly effective with modern comfort features
- Clear Braces: Less noticeable ceramic brackets for image-conscious teens
- Invisalign for Teens: Nearly invisible aligners with compliance tracking
Teen Treatment Advantages:
✅ Optimal timing for jaw modification
✅ Faster results during growth spurts
✅ Multiple discreet treatment options
✅ Builds confidence for college years
Adult Treatment: It’s Never Too Late for Your Dream Smile
One in four orthodontic patients is now an adult, including many Johnson City professionals seeking to correct lower jaw alignment for both function and aesthetics.
Whether you work at ETSU, Ballad Health, or local businesses, adult underbite treatment can transform your professional and personal confidence.
Discreet Adult Treatment Options:
- Invisalign Clear Aligners: Virtually invisible for professionals
- InBrace Lingual Braces: Hidden behind teeth with autopilot technology
- Clear Ceramic Braces: Tooth-colored brackets that blend naturally
- Surgical Orthodontics: For severe skeletal underbites requiring comprehensive correction
Adult Treatment Benefits:
✅ Discreet options that don’t impact work
✅ Improved professional confidence
✅ Better oral health and function
✅ Flexible scheduling around busy lifestyles
Why Johnson City Families Trust Sturgill Orthodontics for Underbite Treatment
When searching for the best underbite treatment in Johnson City, families consistently choose Sturgill Orthodontics for our unique combination of expertise, technology, and personalized care.
Four Board-Certified Orthodontists: Unmatched Expertise
Unlike single-doctor practices, our team approach provides multiple expert perspectives on complex underbite cases:
Our team of board-certified orthodontists includes Dr. Jeremiah Sturgill (with Harvard research experience and professor credentials), Dr. Allison Williams (first-in-class graduate with published research in 3D orthodontic printing), Dr. Anne Miller Harper (Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics), and Dr. Emma Anderson (Johnson City area native bringing the latest orthodontic techniques home).
This collaborative approach ensures every underbite case receives thorough evaluation and optimal treatment planning.
Advanced Technology for Precise Underbite Correction
Our Johnson City office features state-of-the-art technology that improves treatment accuracy and patient comfort:
- 3D Digital Imaging: Comprehensive bite analysis and treatment planning
- Digital Impressions: No more messy molds or gag-inducing putty
- Custom Treatment Planning: Precise tooth movement predictions
- Modern Comfort Features: Reduced appointment times and improved comfort
Three Convenient Locations Serving the Tri-Cities
While our Johnson City office is our flagship location, we also serve patients at our Bristol and Norton, VA locations for maximum convenience throughout your treatment.
Why Choose Sturgill Orthodontics:
✅ Board-certified orthodontists collaborating on your care
✅ Tri-Cities’ most advanced orthodontic technology
✅ Free consultation & flexible financing options
✅ 3 convenient locations for maximum accessibility
✅ Spanish-speaking staff available
✅ Same-week appointment availability
How Is an Underbite Treated at Sturgill Orthodontics?
Understanding your treatment journey helps ensure the best possible outcome. Our Johnson City orthodontists believe informed patients achieve superior results for reverse bite correction.
Your Comprehensive Evaluation
During your complimentary consultation, we’ll:
- Examine your bite relationship and jaw alignment
- Take digital photographs and X-rays as needed
- Discuss your concerns and treatment goals
- Review all treatment options and timelines
- Explain investment and payment options clearly
- Answer all your questions thoroughly
Personalized Treatment Planning
No two underbites are identical. Our orthodontic underbite solutions consider:
- Severity of the skeletal and dental components
- Your age and remaining growth potential
- Lifestyle preferences and aesthetic goals
- Long-term stability and oral health objectives
- Budget considerations and insurance coverage
Active Treatment Phase
Depending on your chosen treatment method:
- Regular adjustment appointments every 6-8 weeks
- Progress monitoring and treatment modifications
- Ongoing support and guidance throughout treatment
- Communication with your general dentist when needed
Retention: Protecting Your Investment
After active treatment, retainers ensure your beautiful results last a lifetime. We provide detailed retention instructions and long-term support to maintain your corrected bite.
Treatment Process Summary:
✅ Free comprehensive evaluation and planning
✅ Personalized approach based on your unique needs
✅ Regular monitoring and adjustments for optimal results
✅ Long-term retention support for lasting success
Addressing Common Johnson City Underbite Treatment Questions
Can underbites be fixed without surgery?
Many underbites can be successfully corrected with orthodontics alone, particularly when treatment begins during childhood or adolescence. Our orthodontists’ expertise in growth modification and advanced techniques often makes surgical treatment unnecessary.
However, severe skeletal underbites in adults may require combined orthodontic-surgical treatment for optimal results. During your free consultation, we’ll determine whether your case can be treated with braces or aligners alone.
How much does underbite treatment cost in Johnson City?
Underbite treatment investment varies based on case complexity and chosen treatment method. We offer:
- Flexible payment plans with low down payments
- Interest-free financing options
- Insurance coordination to maximize benefits
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Most dental insurance plans include orthodontic coverage, and our team helps you understand and maximize your benefits.
What’s the best age to fix an underbite?
While early intervention (ages 7-11) can be highly effective during peak growth, there’s no upper age limit for underbite treatment. We’ve successfully treated patients from age 7 to 70+ with excellent results.
The key is choosing the right approach for your specific age and situation – our team will recommend the optimal timing for your case.
How long does underbite treatment take?
Treatment duration depends on several factors:
- Early treatment: 6-18 months
- Teen comprehensive treatment: 18-30 months
- Adult treatment: 12-24 months
- Surgical cases: 24-36 months total
We’ll provide a more accurate timeline during your consultation based on your specific case.
What Results Can You Expect from Underbite Treatment?
Patients seeking underbite treatment in Johnson City often focus on aesthetics, but the functional improvements are equally transformative.
Immediate Improvements You’ll Notice
Many patients experience positive changes within weeks:
- Easier eating and improved chewing efficiency
- Clearer speech and pronunciation
- Reduced jaw tension and muscle fatigue
- Increased confidence in social and professional settings
Long-Term Benefits That Transform Lives
Complete underbite correction provides lasting benefits:
- Professional Confidence: Johnson City professionals report improved presentation skills and workplace confidence
- Social Freedom: Patients smile and laugh freely without self-consciousness
- Oral Health: Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean and maintain
- Overall Wellness: Improved bite function enhances digestion and reduces TMJ symptoms
Life-Changing Results:
✅ Immediate improvement in function and comfort
✅ Enhanced professional and social confidence
✅ Better long-term oral health outcomes
✅ Reduced risk of future dental complications
Start Your Transformation Today
Serving the Greater Johnson City Community
Families throughout East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia trust Sturgill Orthodontics for expert underbite treatment. We proudly serve patients from:
Johnson City Area Communities:
- Jonesborough and Gray residents
- Elizabethton and Erwin families
- Blountville and Piney Flats areas
- ETSU students and faculty
Tri-Cities Region:
- Kingsport families seeking quality care
- Bristol residents from both Tennessee and Virginia
- Norton, VA and surrounding Wise County communities
- Rural communities throughout the Appalachian region
Our central Johnson City location provides easy access from I-26, I-81, and Route 11E, making quality underbite treatment accessible throughout the region.
What Johnson City Patients Say About Their Underbite Treatment
Deidre James ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“This was my second time having braces, and Dr. Sturgill fixed my underbite which the first orthodontist didn’t. I absolutely adore my new smile, and every single person at Sturgill Orthodontics! I always say Sturgill is the Chick-Fil-A of Orthodontics. 10/10 RECOMMEND!!!”
Trish ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I took my daughter for a consult, and she did need braces. From start to finish the process was fast, informative, and we felt very comfortable with each person we came into contact with. We will be back in a few months for my son’s consult, and then mine. I highly recommend!”
Derrick Rowe ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Sturgill Orthodontics has been the best experience I could ask for. Their professionalism and quality of work is by far the best I have experienced. The staff are always nice and welcoming. Pair this with their great quality of work and it provides a great atmosphere, which is well appreciated with the nerves that braces can bring. If any work needs to be done I highly recommend Sturgill Orthodontics!”
Frequently Asked Questions About Underbite Treatment
Does Invisalign work for underbites?
Invisalign can effectively treat mild to moderate underbites, especially when combined with attachments, elastics, or other auxiliary techniques. Our orthodontists evaluate each case individually to determine if clear aligners are the best option for your specific underbite pattern.
Do all underbites require jaw surgery?
No. Many underbites can be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone, particularly when treatment begins during growth years. Surgical orthodontics is typically reserved for severe skeletal discrepancies in adults where jaw size differences are too large for orthodontics alone.
What causes underbites to develop?
Underbites typically result from:
- Genetic factors (family history of jaw size discrepancies)
- Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use
- Chronic mouth breathing
- Tongue thrusting habits
- Trauma to the jaw during development
Can adults get underbite treatment?
Absolutely! Adult orthodontic treatment is increasingly common, and age is not a barrier to successful underbite correction. Many Johnson City professionals choose discreet options like Invisalign or InBrace for their treatment.
How do I maintain results after underbite treatment?
Wearing retainers as prescribed is crucial for maintaining your corrected bite. We provide detailed retention instructions and long-term support to ensure your investment lasts a lifetime.
Schedule Your Free Underbite Consultation Today
Your underbite doesn’t have to limit your smile or confidence any longer. With modern orthodontic treatment and our team’s expertise, transformation is not only possible – it’s predictable and life-changing.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact Sturgill Orthodontics Johnson City:
Phone: (423) 471-8859
Johnson City Office:
801 Sunset Dr., Suite E5
Johnson City, TN 37604
Office Hours:
Monday – Wednesday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Your Next Steps:
- Free Consultation: Meet our team and discuss your concerns
- Comprehensive Examination: Digital imaging and detailed bite analysis
- Personalized Treatment Plan: Customized approach for your underbite
- Clear Investment Discussion: Transparent pricing and payment options
- Begin Your Transformation: Start your journey to confident function and aesthetics
Don’t let another day pass feeling self-conscious about your underbite. Join the thousands of Tri-Cities families who’ve discovered their dream smile with expert orthodontic care at Sturgill Orthodontics.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Now
A better bite means better health. Book your free consult today and take the first step toward comfort, confidence, and lasting results.
Providing expert underbite treatment throughout Johnson City, Jonesborough, Gray, Elizabethton, Kingsport, Bristol, Norton VA, and all surrounding East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia communities. Three convenient locations in Johnson City, Bristol, and Norton for your convenience.