Can Cosmetic Dentistry Fix an Overbite?

Overbites are teeth alignment issue where the upper set of teeth protrude over the lower set. The proportion difference can be as high as 50 percent, which can lead to what professionals call malocclusion. People must not confuse overbites with crooked teeth. It is a lot more than the teeth looking out of place. An overbite indicates that your jaw and teeth are not in proper alignment.

Overbites can be the result of genetics as some people are born with a malformed jaw that doesn't line up properly with their upper teeth. There are two main types of overbite: Vertical overbites, where the front teeth greatly overlap the lower set, and horizontal overbites – where the upper teeth protrude over the lower set.

It is also possible for you to exhibit symptoms of both types of malocclusion. People can further categorize overbites into two categories: dental overbites and skeletal overbites. Just as the name implies, the term dental overbite is used when your teeth are responsible for the overbite, while the term skeletal overbite refers to the jaw being the main cause for the overbite.

What causes an overbite?

The most common reason why you might develop an overbite is the shape or size of your teeth and jaw. It could be a result of not having enough space to accommodate all of your teeth, or having too much space in your jaw area. If the patient does not address the overbite with professional treatment, your teeth will begin to crowd each other and come out crooked. In the case of the jaw having too much space, the result will be your teeth growing far from each other, leading to gaps.

Infants and children are even more susceptible to overbites. Common habits like consistent pacifier use and sucking of the thumbs can produce an overbite. Chewing on hard things like your nails or writing tools can also lead to an overbite. ADA research currently shows that 70 percent of children in the U.S. show signs of an overbite.

You can also end up with an overbite because of TMJ disorders, grinding your teeth, or a history of overbites in your family.

How overbites are treated

Most dentist will refer you to an orthodontist if you have an overbite. This condition is a lot easier to address in young patients since the jaw is still developing at that stage. Many adults with overbites begin experiencing the issue in their childhood and that often leads to more complicated cases.

During your appointment, your dentist will examine your mouth and come up with a course of treatment. Keep in mind that it can take up to two years to fully correct the overbite. Treatments your dentist might recommend to address your overbite include:

• Removing baby teeth to make space for proper growth of permanent teeth

• Braces

• Retainers

• Surgery

• Removal of permanent teeth

Ready to deal with your overbite?

Request a dental appointment here: https://testcummingsfamilydentist.dgdevnext.com or call Cumming's Family Dentist at (770) 205-9226 for an appointment in our Cumming dental office.