Children’s Underbite Correction - Facemask and Invisalign First

Orthodontic Clinic in Daechi-dong, Yonsei Jeongwon Dental Clinic

Hello. I’m Dr. Yoon Jeong-won of Yonsei Jeongwon Dental Clinic, an orthodontic clinic in Daechi-dong.

When our children need orthodontic treatment, parents often worry a lot and may find it difficult to look into all the details.

In particular, with cases such as underbite, timing is very important, so please make sure not to miss the right timing. When children’s orthodontics is done well, it is possible to take advantage of growth in treatment, which has many benefits.

In the case of what we commonly call an underbite, or Class III malocclusion, the upper jaw is underdeveloped or the lower jaw is developed more than the upper jaw, so a crossbite pattern often appears in the front teeth area.

A crossbite refers to a bite in which the upper front teeth do not overlap the lower front teeth, and the lower front teeth sit farther forward. This type of crossbite is relatively easy for parents to notice, and treatment should begin as soon as it is found.

Crossbite

Edge bite

However, in Class III malocclusion cases where it is not a crossbite but an edge bite, in which the upper and lower front teeth meet edge to edge, it is not easy to notice the problems of malocclusion. When the front teeth hit against each other like this, excessive force is applied to the front teeth, which can shorten the roots of the front teeth, and the alveolar bone may recede or gum recession may occur.

Also, since height increases rapidly during the peak growth spurt of puberty and lower jaw growth can also suddenly increase a lot, this edge bite should also be treated quickly.

In a previous post, we looked at a case in which a patient completed growth correction for an underbite with a facemask and a Frankel appliance (FR III) as a child, and then improved their tooth alignment with Invisalign as a second phase of orthodontic treatment. Then can facemask treatment and Invisalign treatment be done at the same time?

Initial consultation in February 2025

This patient was a 10-year-old boy who visited after being diagnosed with malocclusion at a pediatric dental clinic for treatment. The detailed examination showed Class III malocclusion, and the canines and molars were in a Class III relationship. When the crossbite of the front teeth is severe and the lower jaw is significantly overdeveloped, it is necessary to first perform maxillary expansion and growth modification.

However, in cases like this patient, where the Class III malocclusion pattern is not severe, Invisalign First can be used to achieve arch expansion and tooth alignment, while a facemask can be used to promote maxillary growth.

Facemask

As shown in the photos above, hooks were added in the canine area so that rubber bands could be attached for wearing the facemask. By wearing it for about 8 to 10 hours a day while sleeping at night, it was made possible to stimulate maxillary growth in a kind of retainer-like concept as growth progressed.

When Invisalign is combined with a facemask or chin-cup treatment (Invisalign MA or MAOB), there is the advantage of being able to promote jaw growth while also carrying out tooth alignment at the same time. Of course, this kind of combined treatment cannot be applied to all cases, so it is essential to first determine the current condition accurately through a detailed examination at an orthodontic clinic and then receive a consultation.

At Yonsei Jeongwon Dental Clinic, we have all the latest equipment needed for Invisalign orthodontic treatment, including the iTero Lumina 3D intraoral scanner, growth plate testing, and pre- and post-treatment simulations using the Morpheus facial scanner, allowing for more precise and systematic orthodontic treatment.

In addition, orthodontic treatment includes the detailed examination fee and monthly fees (excluding retainer costs), so you do not need to worry about additional expenses. We also have a general dentistry department, so all necessary treatments for orthodontics, such as extractions and cavity treatment, can be done in one place. To reduce the burden of paying a large sum at once, we also offer an installment payment system, which makes it even more appealing.

Dr. Yoon Jeong-won, PhD in Orthodontics

Chief Director Yoon Jeong-won is in charge of the orthodontic department and has specialized only in orthodontics for 16 years of clinical experience, giving her extensive experience with numerous high-difficulty cases. Therefore, she can effectively treat various orthodontic cases such as malocclusion, protruding mouth, underbite, chin deficiency, and more.

Perhaps those considering orthodontic treatment or jaw surgery due to protruding mouth, crowded teeth, malocclusion, chin deficiency, underbite, and similar concerns have already gathered a lot of information through searches for nearby orthodontic clinics. Even so, comparing the different appliances in person and hearing detailed explanations about whether extraction is necessary and so on will be of great help in making a decision.

Orthodontic Clinic in Daechi-dong, Yonsei Jeongwon Dental Clinic

During the consultation, you can compare various appliances such as Clarity, Clippy-C, and Invisalign clear aligners with your own eyes and hear detailed explanations about their pros and cons, orthodontic treatment prices, and types of orthodontic treatment. We encourage you to call or visit for a consultation without hesitation.

Gangnam Orthodontic Clinic, Daechi-dong Yonsei Jeongwon Dental Clinic, is close to Samseong Station, Hakyeoul Station, Daechi Station, and Hanti Station, making it very convenient for visits from Samseong-dong, Daechi-dong, Gaepo-dong, Dogok-dong, and Yeoksam-dong.

Next to BMW at the intersection by Woosung Apartment in Daechi-dong

(Across from Starbucks / Samsung Store)

Daechi-dong Orthodontic Clinic, Yonsei Jeongwon Dental Clinic

Parking is convenient and free

Consultation and inquiries: 02-501-2879