Have an overbite and considering seeing a cosmetic dentist for treatment? An overbite is a condition where the upper teeth protrude disproportionately over the lower set. An overbite means the jaw and teeth are not correctly aligned. Continue reading to know what a cosmetic dentist can do about your overbite.
Genetics can contribute to overbites since people have a malformed jaw that aligns wrongly with their upper teeth right from birth. Overbite can occur in two forms — vertical overbite, where the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth significantly, and horizontal overbite, which is when the front teeth overlap the lower set horizontally.
Some patients may show signs of the two types of overbite. There are also two subcategories — dental and skeletal overbites. As the name suggests, dental overbite refers to when the teeth are the cause of malocclusion, while skeletal overbite is when the jaw is the main reason for the overbite.
The major contributor to the development of overbite is the shape or dimension of the jaw and teeth. It could mean inadequate space for proper tooth alignment or excessive space around the jaw. When patients fail to undergo professional treatment for an overbite, the teeth will start to cluster and erupt crooked and misaligned. In the case of excessive space on the jaw, the teeth will eventually grow farther apart and create gaps in the smile.
Children are more prone to overbites, especially with common habits like repeated pacifier use and thumb sucking. Biting or chewing hard objects like writing implements and nails can also contribute to an overbite. Research published by the American Dental Association revealed that up to 70% of U.S. children have a form of an overbite. Teeth grinding, TMJ disorders, or a family history of overbites could also be a factor.
It is easier to resolve this issue at an early age because the jaw is in the developmental stage. Most adults with overbites start noticing the problem when they were children, and it often makes their case more complicated to deal with. When patients visit the dental office, the dentist will perform an oral examination and determine the best treatment. Correcting an overbite can take up to two years to complete.
Patients still have a say regarding the type of treatment they want. The conventional treatment for overbite is braces. They will have to wear the braces anywhere between one to three years, depending on the severity of their case. For an adult who thinks braces will be awkward, clear aligners are an alternative for mild to moderate overbite correction. The only way to be sure is to discuss with the dentist and undergo an evaluation.
Both adults and children can undergo treatment for an overbite. A cosmetic dentist can help you realign your smile and improve its appearance. It is never too late to get the smile of your dreams. Book an appointment today to get started.
Request an appointment here: https://gallodental.com or call GDC Smiles at (770) 504-5725 for an appointment in our Gainesville office.
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