Overbite

An overbite occurs when the upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth, which is typically by a proportion of between 30-50%. The medical term for an overbite is known as an malocclusion. An overbite is apparent when a person’s teeth and jaw are not aligned properly.

How is an Overbite Caused?

An overbite can be caused by the following:

• Genetics
• Grinding teeth
• Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ)

Types of Overbites

There are usually two types of overbites, which are vertical overbites and horizontal overbites. However, it is possible for patients to exhibit signs of both types. In addition, overbites can be categorized as dental or skeletal in nature. A dental overbite means that the teeth have caused the overbite. A skeletal overbite means that the jaw has caused the overbite to occur. 

Vertical overbite: The top teeth significantly overlap the bottom teeth.

Horizontal overbite: The top teeth protrude over the bottom teeth.

If you or your child have overbite issues, it is important to seek treatment from a reputable orthodontist. At Rawle Orthodontics, our team is highly skilled in helping people treat overbites to ensure a healthy and beautiful smile. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you!

Treatment Methods for an Overbite

There are a few different types of treatment methods for an overbite. The best solution ultimately depends on the severity and complexity of your condition. For example, here are some of the different options that we offer:

• Braces: Braces are a popular and highly effective method for treating an overbite in most cases. Some patients have the option of the more concealed solutions, such as ceramic or lingual (inside) braces or Invisalign aligners to fix their overbite. However, it ultimately depends on the complexity of the case.
  

• Surgery: In very rare cases, surgery may be necessary when there is a skeletal overbite. This is because in cases of a skeletal overbite, the jaw is misaligned. Braces or aligners will not help this type of issue initially, and instead, surgery will be necessary to correct a skeletal overbite. This could be a tooth extraction, which is intended to create more space in your mouth. A tooth extraction can help your teeth align without a procedure that is more serious. After the tooth extraction, you can use other treatment methods like braces.
  

If you would like to learn more about how we can treat your overbite, it is best to schedule a consultation with our office. We will be able to provide a comprehensive examination to determine the best treatment route for your situation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our skilled orthodontist!

What Happens if I Don’t Treat an Overbite?

If an overbite is left untreated, it can cause significant health complications. This can result in irreparable damage to the teeth, such as abnormal positioning, jaw pain, and temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). There are many other issues that can arise due to not seeking treatment for an overbite, such as:

• Tooth decay, such as cavities, gum disease, and worn tooth enamel
• Jaw pain
• Severe headaches
• Discomfort or pain while eating
• Trouble with fully opening or closing mouth
• Sleep apnea
• Difficulty speaking

Additionally, an untreated overbite can result in problems with the facial structure, as well as self-esteem issues in the long run. If you or your child are experiencing overbite issues, then it is important to seek help from an experienced orthodontist who can correct the problem. Feel free to contact our team today to get the help you need to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile!

Contact an Orthodontist for Overbite Treatment

At Rawle Orthodontics, our team is committed to helping our patients achieve the most beautiful and healthy smiles. If you suffer from an overbite, you are not alone. Contact our team today to learn about the different options that we provide that are highly effective. You can count on our team to get you the results you need.