Most people go through life without knowing they even have an overbite. For some, it is small and poses no problems. Others can experience pain, dental issues, and embarrassment. So, what is an overbite, and if you do have one, how do you fix an overbite?
What Is an Overbite?
An overbite is a dental malocclusion, or a misalignment of the teeth. It occurs when your front top teeth project too far forward over your bottom front teeth. A slight overbite is normal, but if it’s excessive, it becomes problematic both functionally and cosmetically.
There are two primary types of overbites:
- Skeletal overbite: Resulting from jawbone growth.
- Dental overbite: Result of the position of the teeth instead of the structure of the jaws.
Overbites are often inherited, but habits that begin early in life—such as thumb sucking or extended use of a pacifier—also play a role.
Signs You May Have an Overbite
Overbites may not always be apparent unless they’re severe, but here are some signs that you might have one:
- Your upper teeth overlap your lower teeth considerably when your mouth is closed.
- You feel jaw pain or clicking.
- You’re having trouble with speech.
- You catch yourself biting your gums or the top of your mouth.
There’s noticeable wear on your bottom teeth.
If any of these happen to you, it could be worth getting a professional dental assessment.
Why Should You Fix an Overbite?
While others may get away with having a mild overbite for their entire lives without problems, in more severe cases, the consequences can be long-term and problematic. Here’s why it’s important to treat an overbite:
1. Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorders
An untreated overbite may cause jaw strain. Over time, this strain can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which are painful and sometimes challenging to treat.
2. Tooth Wear and Damage
An overbite that is too large results in irregular tooth contact, leading to premature wear, enamel loss, and even tooth fracture.
3. Gum Problems
Incorrect alignment often leads to gum recession and periodontal disease, particularly when the lower teeth abrade the gumline of the upper teeth.
4. Speech Disruptions
Overbites can disrupt the tongue’s ability to produce certain sounds, leading to speech difficulties such as lisps.
5. Aesthetic Impacts
In extreme instances, a severe overbite alters the face’s contours, creating the impression of a receding chin or hollow cheeks.
How do you Fix an Overbite
Thankfully, contemporary dentistry has several treatments that successfully correct overbites, depending on the reason and severity of the overbite. Some of the most prevalent follow:
1. Braces
Braces are one of the most dependable treatments for correcting an overbite. They slowly shift the teeth to the correct position and can be utilized in teenagers and adults. Rubber bands may be used with braces to correct the bite at times.
2. Clear Aligners (Invisalign)
For more subtle wearers, transparent aligners like Invisalign can also be used to correct overbites. They’re less visible than metal braces and are removable while consuming food or flossing your teeth.
3. Retainers
Retainers are generally applied after braces to maintain your teeth in their corrected positions; however, in very minor cases of overbite, they can be used as the primary correction.
4. Orthognathic Surgery
In severe skeletal overbite cases where jaw structure is the main issue, surgery may be recommended. This procedure repositions the jawbone to correct alignment. It’s typically considered for adults when braces alone won’t be effective.
5. Tooth Extraction
Sometimes, overcrowding in the mouth contributes to an overbite. In such cases, removing one or more teeth may create space to allow realignment.
6. Growth Modification Devices
These are most often used in children or teens whose bones are still forming. These devices guide jaw growth in the proper direction and are typically used in conjunction with braces.
Preventing an Overbite
Some overbites are inherited and cannot be avoided, but parents can take steps to minimize the risk in children:
- Avoid thumb sucking and pacifier use after age 3.
- Encourage good oral habits at a young age.
- Schedule your child’s early orthodontic check-ups.
Final Thoughts
If you think you have an overbite, the good news is that contemporary oral therapies can correct it. If you’re experiencing pain, concerned about your bite, or simply curious, a visit to your orthodontist or dentist is a great place to start.
Early treatment does make a huge difference, particularly for children and adolescents. However, even adults can benefit from overbite correction, which not only enhances dental health but also boosts confidence and overall well-being.
So if your teeth are not lining up the way they should be, don’t just keep quiet. Discuss a customized treatment plan with your dental specialist at ProSmiles. Correcting an overbite is not merely about the appearance of your smile—it’s about building a foundation for a healthy, comfortable, and confident life.
