Buzz
If your upper teeth protrude more than your lower ones, it indicates you have buck teeth. In some cases, protrusion happens naturally, but severe buck teeth can cause future health issues such as difficulty chewing or speaking. We have answered some frequently asked questions about buck teeth to help you start correcting the issue today.
Steps
Can I prevent my buck teeth from getting worse?
Yes. You can prevent your buck teeth from worsening by avoiding thumb sucking, nail biting, or applying excessive pressure when using utensils during meals.
How can you tell if your teeth are buck teeth?
Check if your teeth are aligned by biting down and smiling. Close your mouth naturally so your teeth are in their natural position. When you bite down, smile in front of a mirror and observe how much your upper teeth protrude beyond your lower teeth. A slight overlap of the upper teeth is normal, but if they stick out too much, you may have buck teeth.
Visit the dentist for an examination. They can examine and take X-rays of your teeth to determine if you have buck teeth. The dentist can also assess the severity of the condition and suggest treatment options.
- Your teeth are considered severely bucked if the overlap is mm or more.
- If necessary, the dentist may refer you to an orthodontist.
Is it worth fixing buck teeth?
Yes, because buck teeth can lead to complications in the future. Depending on the severity, you may experience tooth decay, discomfort when biting or chewing, or even difficulty with pronunciation. Whether to correct your buck teeth is up to you, but if you're concerned, it's a good idea to consult a dentist or orthodontist.
How will an orthodontist fix buck teeth?
Braces are the easiest and most common method for correcting buck teeth. Braces can also straighten teeth and adjust the position of the jaw, no matter your age. If you don't like the traditional braces style, ask your orthodontist about clear aligners.
- If you choose braces, you will need to wear a retainer for life to keep your teeth in place.
- Clear aligners are a good option for mild cases of buck teeth since they are cheaper than traditional braces. However, if you have severe buck teeth, this may not be the best option for you.
How long will it take to fix buck teeth?
You will need to wear braces for about 2 years. Although each case of buck teeth is different, you should prepare to wear braces for at least 2 years, or even longer if you have severe buck teeth. Afterward, you will wear a retainer to keep your teeth in place and prevent them from becoming bucked again.
Can you fix buck teeth without braces?
Yes, you can have teeth extracted if your buck teeth are caused by overcrowding. If you are young, this could be an option for you. An orthodontist may recommend removing a few smaller teeth to create more space in your mouth and correct your buck teeth. However, this method does not completely resolve the issue, and you may still need braces eventually.
Is there surgery to fix buck teeth?
Yes, but it is usually only performed in severe cases. If the overlap of your upper and lower teeth is mm or more, your dentist may recommend corrective surgery. During the procedure, the doctor will pull your cheeks aside and make an incision inside the jaw. They will then reposition the jaw to reshape the chin and straighten the teeth. You will stay in the hospital for about 2 days.
- Surgery is typically done if less invasive methods have not been successful.
- In the U.S., this surgery typically costs between $20,000 and $40,000.
Advice
- Dental insurance often covers some orthodontic procedure costs. If you have insurance, make sure to check with your provider before paying out-of-pocket for surgery.
