An overbite (sometimes called a deep bite) happens when your upper front teeth come down too far over your lower front teeth. This can cause problems with chewing, speech, and even jaw pain, not to mention how it looks.
Braces are one of the most common ways to fix an overbite and improve your overall dental health. But what does the process really look like? And what kind of results can you expect to see with overbite braces before and after the treatment?
We’ll cover the different types of braces used for overbite correction, walk you through the treatment timeline, show you some before-and-after photos, and discuss the costs involved.
Understanding Overbites: Types, Causes, and Diagnosis
An overbite is a type of malocclusion where the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth.
Types of Overbites
- Dental Overbite: This type is primarily caused by the positioning of your teeth.
- Skeletal Overbite: This type relates to the structure of your jaw.
Causes of Overbites
Overbites can be caused by a number of different factors, including:
- Genetic factors and jaw development
- Habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting
Diagnosis of Overbites
An overbite is usually diagnosed during an orthodontic examination. It’s always a good idea to consult an orthodontist for a personalized treatment plan. An orthodontist will be able to determine the best course of action based on your individual case and the severity of your overbite.
Popular Braces Options for Overbite Correction
If you and your orthodontist decide that braces are the best way to correct your overbite, you have several options to choose from.
Traditional Metal Braces
- Description: The standard braces most people think of, with metal brackets and wires.
- Cost: $3,000 – $7,500 (in Toronto; prices will vary by location).
- Effectiveness: Metal braces have a proven track record for correcting overbites and other alignment issues.
Ceramic Braces
- Description: Similar to metal braces, but with tooth-colored brackets that blend in more naturally.
- Cost: $4,000 – $8,500 (in Toronto).
- Benefits: More aesthetically pleasing than metal braces.
Lingual Braces
- Description: Braces that are placed on the inside surfaces of the teeth.
- Cost: $5,000 – $9,000 (in Toronto).
- Benefits: Virtually invisible.
Invisalign
- Description: Clear, removable aligners that gradually shift your teeth.
- Cost: $3,000 – $8,000 (in Toronto).
- Benefits: Discreet and convenient; a popular choice for its invisibility and removability.
Self-Ligating Braces
- Description: Braces that use a clip mechanism instead of elastic bands to hold the wire in place.
- Cost: $4,000 – $8,000 (in Toronto).
- Potential benefits: Reduced friction and potentially shorter treatment time compared to traditional braces.
What are other ways to fix an overbite?
While braces are the most common way to fix an overbite, they aren’t the only option. Depending on the severity of the overbite, an orthodontist may recommend:
- Orthodontic Headgear: This applies extra force to correct severe overbites.
- Tooth Extraction: Removing teeth can create space and reduce crowding, and it’s often done alongside braces. For example, one teenager with an overbite had teeth removed and wore braces for a year. An adult with a similar condition wore braces for a little over two years after having teeth removed.
- Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery): This option can correct severe skeletal overbites by moving the jaw into proper alignment.
What to expect from overbite braces
Here’s a brief overview of the braces process:
- Initial consultation: Your orthodontist will examine your teeth, take X-rays, and develop a treatment plan. They’ll discuss your goals and treatment options.
- Brace application: The orthodontist will bond brackets to your teeth and attach wires and elastic bands.
- Regular adjustments: You’ll have scheduled appointments for adjustments. Follow your orthodontist’s instructions for the best results.
- Treatment duration: Treatment times depend on the severity of your overbite and your treatment plan. Mild to moderate cases may only take a few months. More severe cases can take two years or longer.
- Retainer wear: After the braces are removed, you’ll need to wear a retainer to maintain the new position of your teeth. Follow your orthodontist’s instructions.
Before and After: Real-Life Examples of Overbite Correction
It’s one thing to hear about how braces can fix an overbite, but it’s another thing entirely to see the results. Here are some examples of overbite correction, showing how different treatments can affect the alignment of the teeth and the overall facial profile. (Note: These are just examples, and results can vary.)
Before and After Overbite Treatment With a Herbst Appliance
A Herbst appliance is often used to encourage jaw growth, particularly in younger patients. In this case, the treatment took a little over two years.
[Insert before and after photos here showing an improved bite and facial profile.]
Before and After Overbite Treatment With Forsus Springs
Forsus springs are designed to correct overbites by applying continuous pressure to the jaw. This patient wore them for a little over two years.
[Insert before and after photos here illustrating improved bite alignment.]
Before and After Overbite Correction With Extractions in a Teenager
In some cases, braces are combined with tooth extraction to create space and improve alignment. This teenager’s treatment took just twelve months.
[Insert before and after photos here showcasing improved alignment and bite.]
Before and After Overbite Correction With Extractions in an Adult
Extractions can also be part of an adult’s overbite treatment plan. This patient’s treatment, which included braces and tooth extraction, lasted a little over two years.
[Insert before and after photos here showing improved alignment and bite.]
How much do braces for an overbite cost?
The price of braces to fix an overbite depends on a few things:
- The kind of braces you select
- How severe your overbite is
- How long the treatment takes
- Where your orthodontist’s office is located
We’ve already talked about average cost ranges. But keep in mind that you should discuss payment options with your orthodontist’s office. Many orthodontists offer financing plans. Also, check with your dental insurance provider to see if your plan covers any of the costs.
What are the benefits of fixing an overbite?
If you correct your overbite, you may experience:
- Healthier teeth and gums: Straighter teeth are easier to brush and floss. This reduces your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- A more attractive smile: Many people feel more confident when they know they have a nice smile.
- Improved chewing and speaking: Misaligned teeth can sometimes make it difficult to chew food or pronounce words clearly.
- Less jaw pain: Correcting an overbite can relieve tension in your jaw muscles and joints.
Putting It All Together
Braces can do more than straighten your teeth; they can also correct your bite, improve your oral health, and boost your self-confidence.
If you think you have an overbite, the best thing to do is talk to an orthodontist who can create a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Taking that first step can put you on the path to a healthier, more beautiful smile.