When your bite alignment isn’t correct, it could lead to dental problems. One of the most common dental issues to occur in children and adults is buck teeth. Also known as an overbite, this condition can affect the aesthetics of your smile. But more than that, it could lead to discomfort. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to fix overbite professionally.
What is an Overbite?
Before we discuss the treatment options, what exactly is an overbite? This is a malocclusion that occurs when your upper teeth overlap the bottom teeth by more than 30 to 50%. Although slight overlapping of teeth isn’t unusual, excessive overbite is considered a misalignment issue.
Causes of Overbite
Childhood habits are typically responsible for the development of an overbite. Thumb sucking, persistent use of pacifiers, and excessive bottle drinking are some factors that can contribute to an overbite in children. Moreover, adolescent habits like nail biting and chewing on objects could also lead to overlapping. Thus, if you bite on your pencil or utensils, it could result in buck teeth.
These are not the only causes of an overbite. Teeth grinding, mouth injury, and TMD can also cause buck teeth. Furthermore, genetic factors can also be why your front teeth overlap the lower ones.
How Will a Dentist Fix an Overbite?
Keeping up with your dental examinations is extremely important. This is because your dentist can inspect any dental issues and resolve them before they become serious. If you are dealing with an overbite, your dentist can help.
Some treatments for overbite include:
1. Braces: Your orthodontist might suggest braces to fix your overbite. This orthodontic device works by putting pressure on your teeth. Gradually, the teeth shift into proper alignment. Depending on your condition, braces might take 6 months to 2 years to fix an overbite. In addition, you’ll have to wear a retainer after braces for straightening your teeth.
Children, teenagers, and adults can wear braces for their treatment. Your dentist will guide you on all you need to know about braces. However, if jaw alignment is also the reason for the misalignment, additional treatment is required. This includes orthodontic headgear and jaw surgery.
2. Aligners: Clear aligners also work similarly to braces by applying pressure to the teeth. Over time, the teeth move into a better position. You can use these plastic trays to treat moderate overbites. Your dentist will instruct you better on how to use your clear aligners.
3. Surgery: Extreme cases of overbite require orthognathic surgery. This surgery helps fix skeletal overbites by correcting the alignment of upper and lower jawbones. As a result, the individual will find it easier to eat, talk, breathe, and improve facial appearance.
Correcting overbite via surgery is usually not recommended for females under 16 or males under 21. This is because the jaw is still growing. Hence, the dentist might recommend orthodontic appliances for children or people under the required age.
What’s Next?
Your dentist will decide how to treat an overbite based on your case. Braces, aligners, surgery, and orthodontic devices are used to resolve this issue. You should not wait to treat your overbite. Otherwise, you might have to face issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and speech problems. Angleton Family Dental is always here to help you fix your smile. Get started on improving your dental health by scheduling an appointment with us at (979) 308-4450.
