An overbite is when your top front teeth overlap your bottom front teeth. It can affect how your smile looks, how well you chew, and even how clearly you speak.
Orthodontic treatment can correct an overbite to improve your smile, your bite, and your overall oral health. Here’s what you can expect from overbite correction, with pictures of overbites before and after treatment.
Why Correct an Overbite? Benefits Beyond Aesthetics
Fixing an overbite does more than just improve the look of your smile. An overbite can interfere with how you chew and speak. Correcting it can make these everyday functions easier.
Improved Functionality and Comfort
Overbites can also cause jaw pain, headaches, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Addressing the overbite can relieve pain and improve your overall quality of life.
Long-Term Oral Health Advantages
An untreated overbite can lead to tooth wear, chipping, and a higher risk of cavities. Fixing the overbite can prevent these issues and boost your long-term oral health.
Overbite Correction Methods: A Range of Options
Overbites can be corrected in a variety of ways.
Common Orthodontic Appliances
Braces and Invisalign are both popular options for correcting an overbite. Invisalign aligners have the advantage of being less visible.
Other appliances, like Herbst appliances and Forsus Springs, can help move the lower jaw forward to align the jaws.
Extractions as Part of the Treatment Plan
In some cases, a dentist or orthodontist may need to remove one or more teeth to create space for the other teeth to move into better alignment.
Treatment Duration Factors
How long it takes to correct an overbite depends on which method you choose, how old you are, and how severe the overbite is. For example, an Herbst appliance could take a little over two years. Extractions followed by braces might take just a year in a teenager, but a bit over two years in an adult.
Before and After: What to Expect
So, what can you expect from fixing your overbite?
- Improved Facial Aesthetics: You’ll likely see a more balanced and pleasing facial profile. As your smile becomes more attractive, your confidence should increase, too.
- Enhanced Oral Function: Chewing and speaking will become easier and more comfortable.
- Long-Term Oral Health Benefits: Correcting an overbite reduces the risk of tooth wear, chipping, and cavities. It can also decrease jaw pain and TMJ issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you live a normal life with an overbite?
Yes, many people live completely normal lives with mild overbites. A slight overbite is actually considered normal and doesn’t usually cause any problems. However, a severe overbite can lead to various issues, such as jaw pain, difficulty chewing, speech impediments, and increased risk of tooth damage. If your overbite is causing you discomfort or functional problems, it’s best to consult with an orthodontist.
Can you completely fix an overbite?
In many cases, yes, an overbite can be completely fixed with orthodontic treatment. The best approach depends on the severity of the overbite and the patient’s age. Common treatment options include braces, Invisalign, and, in more severe cases, jaw surgery. For children and adolescents, correcting an overbite is often easier because their jaws are still developing. Adults can also achieve excellent results, although treatment may take longer.
Final Thoughts
Correcting an overbite is more than just an aesthetic choice. It can improve your oral health, make it easier to eat and speak, and relieve jaw discomfort.
If you’re thinking about fixing your overbite, the first step is to talk with an orthodontist. Schedule a consultation so you can discuss treatment options and costs.