Overbite Correction and the Knowledge to Help You Get Care

An overbite is identified when the upper teeth protrude significantly above the lower teeth.

Overbite issues create quite a dilemma when you consider the variety of options and the range of costs involved. That is why having a trusted orthodontist is so important when it comes to having major dental treatments and repairs. While orthodontists are known for straightening teeth, they also assist with painful and misaligned bites. In addition, they repair tooth movement caused by bad habits such as thumb sucking.

Overbites are identified when the upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth by a proportion of between 30-50%. It is medically referred to as malocclusion. Often an overbite can merely appear to be a problem with crooked teeth when actually the person’s teeth and jaws are not lining up properly.

An overbite is also known as a malocclusion.

How Do I Know If I Have an Overbite?

If your top teeth overlap your bottom teeth, you have an overbite. For many reasons, you may want to consider overbite correction.

In the field of dentistry, malocclusion is determined by how much your teeth overlap or how many of your upper teeth cover your lower teeth. An overbite is a completely normal occurrence. Nearly everybody has one. But, when your overbite is too small or too large, you may encounter problems.

One problem is when your overbite is distinct. This results in what orthodontists call a deep bite. This type of bite may cause problems like pain, excessive wear, and aesthetic issues. If you do have a problematic overbite though, don’t worry. Overbite correction for adults is not difficult with the help of orthodontics.

An overbite can cause pain, extensive wear, and aesthetic issues

How Do You Treat an Overbite?

Once the straightening of the teeth is complete, correcting the malocclusion can begin. Spring, coils, and rubber bands are added to the brace to help shift the jawline with additional force. Treatment of an overbite using braces can take anywhere from six months to two years.

Correcting an overbite can take up to two years

Is Surgery Ever Needed for a Malocclusion?

There are times when Invisalign and braces are unable to correct teeth and jaw problems. In such a situation, surgery may be required to reposition the jaw and correct skeletal issues. Surgery is more often performed on adult patients because it is harder to shift jaws after years of being in place. Children’s jaws are still soft and can easily be shifted as they are still developing. This is why many children and adolescents are seen wearing braces. Adults are more likely to undergo a jaw procedure.

If you suspect that you have an issue with your bite, see your orthodontist. If you are in the Oklahoma City area, you are welcome to make an appointment with Sky Ortho.