Irregularities in how the teeth come into contact with each other can affect a person’s appearance and oral health.
An overbite is when the upper teeth overlap the bottom teeth. It’s a type of malocclusion or teeth misalignment.
An overbite won’t heal on its own, but it can be corrected.
What causes an overbite?
The exact causes of an overbite remain unclear. But various factors can contribute to it, including the following:
Genetics. A small jaw cannot accommodate all teeth, so some protrude or come in crooked.
Habits. Prolonged pacifier use, thumb-sucking, and tongue-thrusting can also result in an overbite. In adults, nail biting or biting on objects can lead to misaligned teeth.
Teeth grinding. Bruxism or teeth grinding is another potential cause of malocclusion.
What happens if an overbite is left untreated?
Without proper treatment, an overbite can affect your oral health and wellbeing. It could lead to:
Poor oral hygiene as it’s tough to keep the mouth clean
Increased risks for tooth decay and gum disease
Pain or discomfort when eating
Headaches and migraines
Speech difficulties
Breathing challenges
Neck pain
Higher risk of tooth injury
Jaw pain
Low self-esteem
How is an overbite treated?
Your dentist will likely refer you to an orthodontist. The process of correcting an overbite is different for adults and children.
Misalignment is easier to address in children because their jaw is still developing. Their treatment may include using devices to reposition the jaw, wearing braces, and using retainers to keep teeth to their ideal position.
For adults, treating an overbite can include extraction to make room in the mouth, braces to move teeth, or jaw surgery to modify jaw alignment.
Some overbite may not lead to noticeable oral health problems or abnormalities. But if it’s making you conscious of your appearance and causing you to avoid social interactions, it’s important to see an orthodontist as soon as possible.
The earlier you start treatments, the sooner you’ll see improvements in your smile. You can also protect your teeth against further damage.
The treatment duration varies on the malocclusion severity, but the average timeline is 18-24 months.
Can braces correct an overbite?
Braces are the most common orthodontic treatment for an overbite. But in some cases, they, alone, aren’t enough to correct teeth misalignment.
Your treatment plan can include other procedures such as tooth extractions, use of other oral appliances, or surgery.
Here at Orthodontic Smile Studio in Kitchener, ON, we help children and adults achieve straight, healthy teeth.
In children, we may use a palate expander to expand the jaw and make room for more teeth. It’ll be easier for a wider jaw to accommodate teeth in their proper position. This also prevents the need for tooth removal.
For adults, on the other hand, we may need jaw repositioning to correct teeth alignment. Regular dental visits are essential in addressing potential dental issues early.
Looking to schedule a braces consultation in Kitchener, ON?
Fixing an overbite isn’t only an aesthetic issue. If your child has protruding teeth, their mouth is more vulnerable to damage during accidents.
If you’re considering getting dental braces, scheduling an appointment is the best way to get started. If you’re in Kitchener, ON, call us at (548) 800-0496.
We’re pleased to offer complimentary consultation here in our dental practice. Ask us about it today.
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. […]