3 Orthodontic Treatments for an Overbite

Overbite Brick Township, NJ

Out of the variety of dental disorders that can affect children, an overbite is one of the most common. The condition becomes even more difficult to fix if the person reaches adulthood without correcting it. However, several options are available when it comes to fixing an overbite.

What is an overbite?

The treatment option that the dentist decides to go with often depends on the person's condition. There are two main types of overbites: vertical and horizontal. Horizontal overbites occur when the front teeth extend farther than the bottom set. A vertical overbite occurs when the top set of teeth overlaps the bottom set.

Both types of overbites are caused by problems with the person's jaw bone structure or teeth. If the person's overbite is caused by their teeth, it is classified as a dental overbite. If the problem is caused by the jaw, it is called a skeletal overbite.

Causes and symptoms of an overbite

Overbites can be caused by many things, such as genetics, lack of oral hygiene, prolonged thumb sucking, or tongue thrusting. Jaw growth occurs during the early years of a person's life, and bad habits can lead to abnormal development. When an overbite develops, it can lead to a series of physical and psychological issues, including:

  • Speech impediments
  • Inability to chew properly
  • Strained jaw muscles
  • Jaw pain
  • Worn-down teeth
  • Soft tissue being damaged by the bottom set of teeth
  • Front teeth being more likely to be damaged by trauma due to their position

Treatment options for an overbite

1. Traditional metal braces

Many dentists argue that this is the most effective way to correct an overbite. It consists of two main parts: brackets that are cemented to each tooth and wires that connect the brackets.

The device works by pushing on the person's teeth, slowly moving them to the desired positions. The force applied to the person's teeth can be increased by tightening the wires.

2. Clear aligners

Clear aligners can also be used to fix overbites. This system involves using transparent aligners to move teeth into better positions. The aligners are worn for about 22 hours a day. A pair of aligners is worn for approximately two weeks before being switched out for another pair that moves the person's teeth closer to the intended position. Clear aligners can be effectively used to deal with moderate overbites.

3. Surgery

Sometimes, a surgical procedure might be necessary to correct an overbite. Adults are more likely to need surgery than children because they have hardened jawbones. Different types of surgeries are used to deal with overbites, from jaw surgery to tooth extractions.

Frequently asked questions about treating overbites

Many patients are ready to get treatment for their overbite. Here are a few of the questions that they often have.

1. What is an overbite?

An overbite is a common dental disorder that occurs when the upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth. Overbites can be mild, moderate, or severe, depending on how much the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth.

2. What are the common causes of an overbite?

Several possible causes of an overbite include genetics, bad habits (such as thumb sucking), and misaligned teeth. In most cases, it is a blend of these factors.

3. How is an overbite treated?

The treatment for an overbite depends on the severity of the condition. For mild cases, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary. In more severe cases, treatment may involve wearing braces or other orthodontic devices to gradually move teeth into the correct positions. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct an overbite.

4. Are there any risks associated with an overbite?

An overbite can cause problems with chewing and speaking, and it can lead to tooth wear and gum disease. If left untreated, an overbite can also cause headaches and jaw pain.

5. How can I prevent an overbite?

There is no sure way to avert an overbite, but practicing good oral hygiene and avoiding bad habits (such as thumb sucking) may help reduce the risk of developing one.

6. What is the long-term outlook for people with an overbite?

The long-term outlook for people with an overbite is generally good. Most people can correct their overbite with proper treatment and enjoy a healthy, functional smile.

Do not let an overbite affect your smile

An overbite is often impossible to hide, and it may affect your self-esteem. Contact our clinic to learn more about how we can restore the alignment of your teeth.

Request an appointment here: https://www.bracesatbrick.com or call Braces at Brick at (732) 795-6096 for an appointment in our Brick Township office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Overbite in Brick Township, NJ.

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