Overbite is one of the most common orthodontic conditions. It often accompanies other issues like crowding and misaligned teeth. Having an overbite means that the teeth on the top row extend too far vertically covering the teeth on the bottom row when you bite down. The top teeth should just slightly overlap the bottom teeth. An overbite that is not corrected can cause jaw pain, headaches, and damage to the teeth and gum. It can also lock the normal forward growth of the lower jaw in a growing individual.
How could an overbite be fixed? There are a few different treatment options that can be effective at correcting an overbite.
Braces
Braces are one way to correct an overbite. Braces consist of metal or ceramic (clear) brackets that attach to the teeth. An archwire connects the brackets and is used to shift the teeth into proper alignment. Through the brackets, archwire, and sometimes rubber bands, the crowding or spacing can be resolved and bite can be opened to normal bite
Invisalign/Spark/Clear Aligners
Clear aligners consist of clear plastic trays that fit over the teeth, called aligners. These aligners gradually shift the teeth into proper alignment. You wear a series of aligners that are each designed to move the teeth slightly, switching from one to the next in order. Each aligner is worn for about 5-10 days before switching to the next. When Invisalign or Spark treatment is complete the upper teeth will slightly overlap the bottom teeth as they are supposed to in a proper bite pattern.
Surgery
Some patients may have a severe overbite that requires surgery to correct. If the shape of the jaw or facial structure is the cause of the overbite, simply shifting the teeth may not be enough to correct the overbite. Surgery can restructure the jaw so that the teeth meet together in the proper bite pattern. The upper jaw may need to be moved back, the bottom jaw moved forward, or a combination of both to achieve the desired result. A maxillofacial surgeon will need to perform the surgery, but you will most likely still need orthodontic treatment both before and after the surgery to fine tune the alignment of the teeth.
Why Does an Overbite Need to be Corrected?
An overbite may seem harmless, but it can become a serious problem. When the upper and lower teeth don’t meet together properly when you chew, you can be doing damage to your teeth with every bite you eat. The molars especially bear the brunt of the chewing force, grinding together harder than they should because they are out of alignment. This can cause premature tooth decay, gum disease, TMJ disorder (jaw pain), and headaches. The sooner an overbite is corrected, the lower the chance of long term effects from the condition.
Castle Hills 3D Orthodontics Provides Treatment for Overbite
At Castle Hills 3D Orthodontics, we have seen the negative effects of uncorrected overbites, which is why we provide treatment for this condition. We offer metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign or Spark clear aligners to correct overbites. After an initial evaluation and consultation, we can recommend the best orthodontic treatment to correct your overbite. In the event that you need surgery, we work closely with the maxillofacial surgeon to provide you with the best treatment and results.
Call 469-598-1700 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment.