A beautiful smile is magnetic. It boosts confidence and creates a positive first impression. If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your smile, it can be made over.
Misaligned and protruding teeth are common issues which can be corrected with orthodontic treatment.
What is an overbite?
Overbite occurs if the upper teeth do not align properly with the lower teeth. If your upper teeth protrude the lower teeth, that is a horizontal overbite.
A vertical overbite is when the upper teeth are positioned too far away from the lower teeth.
An overbite can be caused by various issues. It can be due to jaw size; overcrowding will occur if it’s too small to accommodate all the teeth. If there’s too much room available, there may be gaps between teeth.
Another possible cause of overbite is malformed jaw due to habits such as thumb-sucking or extended pacifier use. Biting nails and chewing on hard, inedible objects can also contribute to an overbite.
Premature tooth loss, teeth grinding, and genetics are also linked to overbite cases.
Overbite classes
Malocclusion or overbite has three classes.
Class 1 Malocclusion. This is the most common type of overbite. It refers to cases where upper teeth overlap lower teeth, but the bite is still normal. The dental arches are aligned, but there may be other issues, such as crowding or gaps between teeth.
Class 2 Malocclusion. In this overbite class, the front teeth are usually protruding or the lower jaw is undeveloped. Buck teeth cases fall in this class.
Class 3 Malocclusion. This type of overbite involves cases where the lower jaw is significantly larger than the upper jaw. This makes the lower teeth more prominent than the upper teeth.
Can they be fixed?
Overbite issues can be fixed. The appropriate treatment differs depending on the type of malocclusion.
The earlier the bite gets corrected, the easier it is to achieve optimal results. A youth’s developing jaw is more flexible and responsive to corrections. However, adults also receive orthodontic treatments with very good results.
Your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist for treatment. In either case, they examine your mouth and customize a treatment plan for you. They also take X-rays of your mouth to determine the type of overbite you have. The treatment can last for up to two years.
How does an orthodontist fix an overbite?
Your orthodontist may recommend these treatment options in fixing overbite issues.
Braces. Braces use metal brackets to put pressure on the teeth and move them to their proper position. How long you need to wear braces depends on the severity of your overbite and your commitment to your treatment. Once you complete the treatment, you may need to wear retainers to keep your teeth in their proper position.
Aligners. For less severe overbite cases, your orthodontist may recommend using clear aligners or Invisalign. These clear aligners also correct teeth alignment, but unlike braces, they’re removable. Your food choices aren’t restricted as you can take out your aligners when eating.
Surgery. In severe and rare overbite cases, surgery may be the ideal treatment option. If aligners or braces won’t address the issue, your jaw may need to be repositioned.
What happens if overbite isn’t fixed?
Left untreated, overbite can lead to severe health issues including jaw pain, sleep apnea, or speech difficulties. Early overbite treatment can improve your facial structure and restore your confidence.
If you’re from the Kitchener area and looking for a family orthodontist, we invite you to contact us whether you want to learn more about the condition of your teeth or available orthodontic treatments.
Our friendly team is happy to respond to your inquiries and assist you in booking a consultation at our Kitchener orthodontist office.
Visit Our Location
Find us in The Boardwalk shopping centre on the second floor of building 235. We’re just across the parking lot from Staples and above Popeyes and Booster Juice.
Thinking about straightening your teeth often raises 1 big question: How long will this take? At Orthodontic Smile Studio, our team knows you want a smile you feel great about, and you also want to know what the journey looks like. It’s completely normal to be curious about what you’re signing up for. It’s important […]
For starters, drinking coffee while wearing your aligners is not recommended. You can, however, remove your aligners and drink coffee while they’re off. […]
A clicking noise when you use your jaw can have many causes, including bruxism (teeth grinding) and malocclusion (bite misalignment), but a common cause that we’ll focus on in this post is temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
[…]
Every time you remove your aligners to eat or drink, make a habit of rinsing them with cold or lukewarm water, along with a daily deep cleaning to keep them bacteria-free. Here are 4 simple and effective methods:
Invisalign Cleaning System
A Soft-bristled Toothbrush (sans toothpaste)
Retainer Cleaning Tablets
White Vinegar Solution
[…]
When flossing with braces, use the flossing tool of your choice to curve the floss in a “C” shape around each tooth. You can use a floss threader to help pull the floss underneath your braces to clean deeper. You can also use a water flosser if needed. […]
Getting braces can bring numerous positive changes to your smile. But along with the excitement of improving your bite or teeth positioning comes the responsibility of caring for your braces. One of the most important adjustments? Changing what you eat. Certain foods, such as hard or sticky snacks can damage your braces, causing discomfort and […]
Can You Eat Popcorn with Braces? 10 Foods to Avoid
Discover 10 foods to avoid with braces and learn tips from Orthodontic Smile Studio for braces-friendly eating to keep your smile healthy and strong! […]
How an orthodontist corrects dental issues like overbite and misalignment. A beautiful smile is magnetic. It boosts confidence and creates a positive first impression. If you’re […]
What to expect when getting braces, along with tips on how to adjust to your orthodontic appliance. If you’re being fitted for braces, you’re probably curious how the process will […]
Here’s what you can expect after getting dental braces. Thinking about getting dental braces but worried that they might hurt? Dental braces are an orthodontic appliance […]
Here’s when children can start coming in for an orthodontic evaluation. Having a straight set of teeth improves oral health and boosts self-confidence. Teeth that are properly […]
Here’s a list of food you can enjoy while wearing braces. Your diet doesn’t have to be boring because you’re getting orthodontic work. What can I eat with braces? Obviously […]
What is the difference between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?
Hi! I’m Dr. Caley Höediono. I have noticed some confusion people have between orthodontists and dentists; and I’m here to offer clarity from an orthodontist’s viewpoint. […]
What Is the Difference Between Braces & Invisalign?
Discover the difference between braces and Invisalign and what’s right for your smile with Dr. Caley Hoediono at Orthodontic Smile Studio in Kitchener. […]
5 Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment for Growing Smiles
Discover how early orthodontic care can improve alignment, prevent dental issues, & boost your child’s confidence for a lifetime of healthy smiles. […]
Getting Braces as an Adult: What to Expect from the Process
Looking for adult braces in Kitchener, ON? Discover what to expect, including treatment time, pain, & available options with Orthodontic Smile Studio. […]