Overbite is a common condition, which may not require treatment, unless it is severe and affecting your eating and speech, in which case correcting an overbite may be necessary. Typically, it occurs when your upper teeth overlap with your lower teeth. Although most people will have a slight overbite of a couple of millimetres, it can become an issue, when the upper teeth don’t cover most of the bottom teeth. As a result, the bottom ones can begin to rot or grind down. Anyone can suffer from an overbite or develop it at some point in life due to various reasons. Within this article, you will find key information about the causes of an overbite and the best ways to correct it.
Causes Of An Overbite
Overbites may be caused due to genetics, so physical features, such as jaw shape and size can be passed down to generations. While some individuals may be born with an uneven jaw, others may have a smaller lower or upper jaw. Additionally, when a child keeps sucking their thumb past the age of 4, the pressure may make the teeth come out at an abnormal angle. Similarly, sucking on a pacifier can have the same effect. Other causes include various teeth problems including missing teeth or impacted teeth.
Correcting An Overbite
The method of treatment will depend on the severity and cause of your overbite, so it is best to consult your dentist to find out how to correct an overbite. Although it is easier to correct an overbite in young children, there is no age restriction for orthodontic treatment. Straight My Teeth offer a clear aligner, which is often a preferred option over metal braces. Clear braces are designed to blend in with your teeth and move them into their correct position. You can also try NightTime clear aligners if the kids have a hard time adjusting to wearing them at school. However, according to the dentists in Avon Lake Ohio, depending on the severity of the overbite, braces may be a more suitable option.
Undergoing Surgery
In some cases, an overbite can be caused by skeletal issues, such as an underdeveloped lower jaw. As a result, when correcting an overbite in adults, undergoing surgery can help you improve the shape of your jaw, as well as your facial appearance. Surgical treatment may involve adding plates around the jaw, repositioning the jaws, inserting screws, or removing some teeth. You will not have any visible scars, as surgery is performed in the mouth. You will need to adjust your diet and take good care of your oral health for best results. Other orthodontic treatments may be done before and after the surgery to ensure the teeth align properly.
Before And After Treatment
Before you correct your overbite, you may notice certain unpleasant conditions, such as headache, facial pain, or impaired facial appearance. Additionally, as there is more strain on them, your teeth are likely to wear down more quickly. Following a suitable treatment, you will notice a change in your facial appearance. Typically, correction of an overbite is recommended in cases of more than 4mm. It is also important to remember that you cannot correct an overbite naturally. However, overbites can be prevented in childhood by breaking habits, such as chewing pencils, thumb-sucking, and others.
An orthodontist in Reading and other areas can give you advice for treatment and how to help your child.
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