An overbite is a common dental condition where the upper front teeth overlap or protrude over the lower front teeth. It can be caused by a variety of factors, such as genetics, jaw development, thumb-sucking, or tongue thrusting.

There are multiple variations of overbites, including horizontal, vertical, skeletal, and dental. A horizontal overbite occurs when the upper teeth stick out too far beyond the perimeter of the lower teeth. A vertical overbite takes place when the upper teeth cover too much of the lower teeth. A skeletal overbite is present when the upper jaw is larger than the lower jaw. A dental overbite is due to the misalignment of the teeth.

An overbite can affect your appearance, speech, chewing, and oral health. Thus, if you suffer from the condition, you may be seeking ways to correct it.

Here are a few common treatments to fix an overbite.

Braces

Braces consist of metal or ceramic brackets that are attached to the teeth and are connected by wires and rubber bands. They apply gentle pressure to gradually move the teeth into proper alignment and correct the bite.

Braces are suitable for children and adults with mild to moderate overbites. The course of treatment can take several months to several years, depending on the case.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are removable plastic trays that fit snugly over the teeth and gently shift them into place. They are similar to braces but are less noticeable and more comfortable. Patients are given multiple sets of aligners to reposition their teeth. Each set is worn for a few weeks and then exchanged with the next consecutive set in the treatment plan. The overbite treatment should be complete after the last set of aligners in the treatment series has been worn as instructed. Aligners are suitable for adults and teens with mild to moderate overbites.

Surgery

Surgery is an option for severe overbites that cannot be corrected with braces or clear aligners. The procedure involves cutting and reshaping the jawbones to improve their positioning and alignment.

Due to the invasive nature of jawbone surgery, it is usually performed under general anesthesia and requires a hospital stay and a minimum recovery period of several weeks. Surgery is suitable for adults with skeletal overbites or complex dental problems.

If you are wanting overbite correction services, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area. They can examine your mouth, take x-rays and impressions, and recommend the best treatment option for your needs.