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 (226) 929-8983 . 

We're pleased to offer complimentary consultation here in our dental practice. Ask us about it today.

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