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If your upper teeth protrude more than your lower teeth, you may have an overbite. While some protrusion is natural, a significant overbite can lead to future health problems such as difficulty chewing or speech impediments. We've provided answers to common questions about overbites to help you get started on correcting yours today.
Important Information
- Consult your dentist for x-rays to assess the severity of your overbite.
- Inquire about using a plastic aligner from your dentist to address a minor overbite.
- Visit an orthodontist to discuss braces for a severe overbite. Brace treatment typically lasts for 2 years, and you may require a retainer after the braces are removed.
Steps to Take
Preventing Overbite Progression
Absolutely, you can. Halting the worsening of your overbite is possible by avoiding habits like thumb sucking, nail chewing, or excessive biting on utensils.
Detecting an Overbite
Assess your teeth alignment through biting and smiling. Close your mouth naturally with your teeth in their resting position. While clenching your teeth, smile in front of a mirror and observe the extent to which your upper teeth protrude over the lower ones. A minor overlap is normal, but if your upper teeth significantly protrude beyond the lower ones, it's likely you have an overbite.
Schedule a dental checkup. Your dentist can conduct a physical examination and take x-rays to determine the presence and severity of an overbite. They can also advise on suitable treatments.
- An overbite is considered severe if the teeth overlap by 3.5 millimeters (0.14 inches) or more.
- If your dentist identifies an overbite, they may refer you to an orthodontist.
Benefits of Correcting an Overbite
Absolutely, it’s worthwhile due to potential future complications. Depending on the severity, an overbite may lead to issues such as tooth decay, discomfort while eating, or speech impediments. The decision to address an overbite is yours, but if you're concerned, consulting a dentist or orthodontist is advisable.
Orthodontic Correction Techniques for Overbites
Braces are the most common and effective method for correcting an overbite. Regardless of age, braces can reposition teeth and align the jaw. If traditional braces aren’t appealing, inquire about clear plastic aligners like Invisalign with your orthodontist.
- If braces are chosen, wearing a retainer lifelong is necessary to maintain teeth alignment.
- For minor overbites, plastic aligners are cost-effective alternatives to braces. However, severe cases may not be suitable for this option.
Timeframe for Overbite Correction
Braces typically require a 2-year commitment. While the duration may vary depending on individual cases, anticipate wearing braces for at least a couple of years. Severe overbites might necessitate longer treatment periods. Following that, a retainer will maintain teeth alignment to prevent regression of the underbite.
Is Overbite Correction Possible without Braces?
Absolutely, extraction of teeth can address overcrowding-related overbites. Particularly for younger individuals, removing some deciduous teeth could create additional space in the mouth and resolve the overbite. However, this may not resolve the issue entirely, potentially requiring subsequent orthodontic treatment with braces.
Are There Surgical Options for Overbite Correction?
Indeed, but it's typically reserved for severe cases. Surgical intervention might be recommended if the overbite exceeds 3.5 millimeters. The procedure involves incisions inside the jaw to reposition it, altering the chin's shape and aligning the teeth. Hospitalization usually lasts around 2 days.
Useful Insights
- Orthodontic procedures may be partially covered by dental insurance. Verify coverage with your provider to avoid unnecessary expenses.
