An overbite — also known as a deep bite or malocclusion — happens when your upper teeth overlap your lower teeth more than they should. A “normal” bite means your upper front teeth sit just a little bit in front of your lower front teeth, usually by about 2 to 4 millimeters.
But when the overlap is more significant, it can lead to problems with your teeth, gums, and even your jaw. So, what causes overbite, and what can you do about it?
Let’s explore the causes, prevention, and treatment options for overbites, so you can get a better understanding of how to keep your smile healthy and aligned.
Understanding Overbite: Definition and Symptoms
An overbite is a type of malocclusion, which just means that your teeth aren’t aligned as they should be. With an overbite, your upper front teeth extend too far beyond your lower front teeth.
It’s important to distinguish an overbite from an overjet, which is sometimes called a horizontal overbite. With an overjet, there’s a gap between the upper and lower teeth, causing the upper teeth to protrude.
What are the symptoms of an overbite?
An overbite can lead to several oral health problems, including enamel erosion, tooth decay, and gum disease. It can also cause jaw pain, neck pain, TMJ disorders, headaches, and even earaches.
Other symptoms that can occur with an overbite include speech problems, bone loss, and even breathing problems.
What causes an overbite?
An overbite can result from a number of factors, and the causes can be different from person to person.
Genetic Predisposition
Hereditary traits often play a role in whether someone develops an overbite. The size and shape of your jaw are inherited characteristics, and these can lead to the misalignment that results in an overbite.
Childhood Habits
Certain childhood habits can affect tooth alignment and contribute to an overbite, including:
- Thumb sucking, especially if it continues for a long time
- Pacifier use, particularly if it goes on past the age of 3
- Tongue thrusting, which puts pressure on the teeth
- Other habits like nail-biting and teeth grinding
Tooth Loss and Jaw Muscle Strength
Losing baby teeth earlier than normal can cause the remaining teeth to shift, which can lead to misalignment. Strong jaw muscles can also have an effect on the development and alignment of the jaw.
Can you prevent an overbite?
In many cases, yes. Early intervention is key, especially when children’s bones are still developing. Parents can help by:
- Discouraging thumb-sucking and extended pacifier use.
- Switching to 360-degree sippy cups.
- Scheduling regular dental checkups to catch any potential problems early.
These strategies can help guide proper jaw and teeth development, reducing the likelihood of a significant overbite.
Treatment Options for Overbite Correction
So, what can be done about an overbite? The good news is that there are several effective treatments available, depending on the severity of the overbite and the patient’s age.
Orthodontic Treatments
These are generally the first line of defense for overbites:
- Braces: Traditional metal braces are still a popular and effective option. Ceramic braces offer a more discreet appearance, while lingual braces are placed on the inside of the teeth.
- Aligners: Invisalign aligners are a clear, removable alternative for mild to moderate overbites.
- Retainers: After braces or aligners, retainers are essential to maintain the new alignment and prevent the teeth from shifting back.
Additional Interventions
In some cases, orthodontists may also recommend these:
- Headgear: Headgear might be used to guide jaw growth, particularly in younger patients.
- Palate expanders: These appliances can widen the upper jaw to create more space.
- Tooth extraction: In severe cases where crowding is a major factor, tooth extraction may be necessary to create room for proper alignment.
Jaw Surgery
For severe adult overbites, jaw surgery might be the best option.
Orthognathic surgery can correct underlying skeletal discrepancies and improve the overall bite and facial appearance.
Closing Thoughts
If you have a child, an early orthodontic assessment can be very helpful. Treating an overbite is often easier when children are still growing.
Left untreated, an overbite can lead to a range of dental and jaw problems down the road, so it’s important to address it.
Whether you’re concerned about your child’s bite or your own, the best plan is to talk with your dentist or an orthodontist. They can evaluate the situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.