An overbite is a common dental issue where your upper teeth overlap your lower teeth more than they should. Overbites can lead to jaw pain, uneven wear and tear on your teeth, and self-consciousness about your smile.
So, what can you do about it? There are methods you can try yourself, and there are professional treatments available from your dentist or orthodontist.
This article will give you a rundown of how to fix an overbite, including some natural techniques you can try at home, as well as the interventions your dentist might recommend.
What is an Overbite?
An overbite is a type of malocclusion. Malocclusion simply means that your teeth aren’t lined up correctly.
Dentists consider it normal for your upper front teeth (incisors) to cover about a third to half of your lower incisors.
But a severe overbite, sometimes called a deep bite, is a different story. Deep bites can lead to problems later in life and often require treatment.
Other types of malocclusion include underbite, crossbite, and gapped teeth (diastema).
What causes an overbite, and what are the symptoms?
Overbites are often caused by a combination of factors, including the size and shape of your jawbone, which can be inherited. They can also be caused by childhood habits or other underlying issues.
Causes of Overbites
- Genetics can play a large role in the size and shape of your jawbone.
- Childhood habits like thumb sucking or prolonged bottle use can affect the way the jaw develops.
- Underlying jaw problems or even missing teeth can also cause an overbite, especially in adults.
Symptoms of Overbites
A deep overbite can cause a number of problems, including:
- Jaw pain and TMJ issues
- Headaches
- Uneven tooth wear
- Speech problems
- Gum damage
- Sleep apnea
Can You Fix an Overbite Naturally?
Some sources will tell you that you can fix an overbite naturally. These methods can help improve jaw alignment and ease some of the symptoms you’re experiencing. But it’s important to be realistic.
If you have a moderate to severe overbite, natural methods aren’t likely to correct the problem entirely. They’re more about improving how your jaw works and providing some relief, not completely fixing your bite.
Natural techniques that might help
While severe overbites generally need professional treatment, there are some natural techniques that may help with minor cases or contribute to overall oral health and jaw alignment.
Tongue posture (aka Mewing)
Mewing involves gently pressing your tongue against the roof of your mouth. The idea is that keeping your tongue in this position can help guide jaw growth and alignment.
To practice proper tongue posture, place the tip of your tongue behind your top front teeth, keep your lips sealed, and breathe through your nose.
Jaw exercises
You can also try jaw exercises like opening and closing your mouth, and shifting your jaw from side to side. Some people find that chewing sugar-free gum also helps strengthen jaw muscles.
Ditch bad oral habits
It’s important to break habits like thumb-sucking, nail-biting, and chewing on pens or other objects, as these can contribute to misaligned teeth and jaws.
Myofunctional therapy
Myofunctional therapy involves working with a trained therapist to improve your tongue positioning, strengthen facial muscles, and optimize your breathing patterns.
Nutrition + posture
Be sure to eat plenty of nutrient-rich foods that require chewing. Getting enough calcium and vitamin D is also important for bone health. Finally, make sure you are maintaining good posture throughout the day.
Fixing an overbite: Braces, aligners, or surgery
Most overbites are corrected with either braces or clear aligners, such as Invisalign. Invisalign is a popular option that uses clear, removable trays to gradually shift your teeth into a more ideal position. The average Invisalign treatment lasts for 12 to 24 months.
In rare cases, jaw surgery (or orthognathic surgery) may be needed, particularly if the overbite is due to a skeletal issue. Jaw surgery involves realigning the upper and lower jaws to improve the bite and overall facial harmony.
It’s worth noting that Invisalign offers a feature called mandibular advancement for teen patients, which can help correct overbites by gently guiding the lower jaw forward as the teeth are straightened.
In Summary
If you have an overbite, the best thing to do is talk with an orthodontist or dentist. They can evaluate your bite and design a personalized treatment plan. Overbites can be corrected using a combination of natural techniques and professional treatments.
To find out how to fix your overbite, schedule an evaluation today.