What is an overbite?
An overbite refers to how much the upper front teeth vertically overlap the lower front teeth. Some amount of overlap is normal, but when there's excessive coverage, we call that a deep overbite. Depending on the individual bite, an excessive overbite can affect how the teeth come together and function.
What is the difference between an overbite and an overjet?
An overbite refers to how much the upper teeth vertically overlap the lower teeth, whereas an overjet refers to how far forward the upper front teeth extend in relation to the lower front teeth. They're two different measurements that we look at when evaluating your bite.
What is the difference between an overbite and an underbite?
An overbite and an underbite describe different bite relationships. With an excessive overbite, the upper front teeth vertically cover too much of the lower front teeth. With an underbite, the lower teeth may sit farther forward than the upper teeth.
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the bite problem. Orthodontic treatment may be appropriate in many cases, while some more significant skeletal bite problems may require additional treatment, including surgery in certain situations.
How can an overbite affect your smile and profile?
An overbite can affect the appearance of a person's smile and profile in different ways depending on the position of the teeth and jaws. Some patients may notice differences in how much of their upper or lower teeth show when they smile. The overall facial appearance depends on more than the overbite alone, so we evaluate the teeth, bite, lips, and jaw relationships together.
What causes an overbite?
An overbite can be caused by many things. It could be genetics, the natural position of the teeth and jaws, or certain habits that develop over time, particularly while the teeth and jaws are developing during childhood.
Can an overbite worsen over time?
An overbite doesn't necessarily worsen over time, but the bite and position of the teeth can change. That's why we evaluate the individual bite to determine if the overbite is stable or if there are other factors that may affect it over time.
What is considered a severe overbite?
A severe or deep overbite is when the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth. In some cases, you may see very little of the lower teeth, and the lower teeth may even contact the gum tissue behind the upper teeth. That can cause irritation or discomfort.
A significant overbite can also contribute to certain patterns of tooth wear or other functional concerns, depending on how the teeth come together. We evaluate the amount of overlap along with the rest of the bite to determine the severity and whether treatment is appropriate.
What are the risks of leaving a severe overbite untreated?
The effects of leaving a severe overbite untreated depend on the individual patient. In some cases, the way the teeth contact can contribute to excessive tooth wear, gum irritation, or other bite-related concerns.
If you think you have a significant overbite or you're noticing wear, discomfort, or other changes in your bite, talk to your dentist or orthodontic provider so it can be evaluated.
Can an overbite be corrected?
An overbite can often be corrected in different ways. Orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners may be appropriate depending on the type and severity of the overbite. Some patients may also use elastics as part of their orthodontic treatment. More significant skeletal problems may require additional treatment, including surgery in certain cases.
Can Invisalign correct an overbite?
Invisalign can be used to correct certain overbites. Whether clear aligners can accomplish the necessary tooth movement depends on the type and severity of your bite problem. We need to evaluate your teeth and jaws to determine if Invisalign, braces, or another treatment approach is appropriate.
How long does it take to correct an overbite?
The length of time it takes to correct an overbite with Invisalign or braces really depends on the severity and complexity of the case. Your starting bite, the amount of movement needed, the treatment approach, and how closely you follow the treatment instructions can all affect the timeline.
Can an overbite be corrected without braces or surgery?
Once an overbite is established, correcting it generally requires professional orthodontic or, in certain cases, surgical treatment. The appropriate approach depends on whether the overbite is primarily related to the position of the teeth, the jaws, or both.
During childhood, habits such as prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use can influence how the teeth and jaws develop. Addressing those habits at the appropriate time may help reduce their effect on the developing bite.
When might overbite surgery be needed?
Surgery may be considered in certain severe cases when the overbite is related to the underlying jaw structure and orthodontic treatment alone can't adequately correct the problem. The decision isn't based on discomfort or the appearance of the smile alone.
If there's a significant skeletal component to the bite, we can evaluate the teeth and jaws and determine whether orthodontic treatment alone is appropriate or if consultation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon should be considered.
You're never alone in caring for your dental health. At Boulder Canyon Dental, our team is here to support and meet you where you are in your dental journey. Call (970) 514-0662 or email [email protected] to connect with us today.