An overbite is a dental malalignment in which the upper teeth are positioned higher than the lower teeth. Other names for it include buck teeth and crooked teeth. In addition to impacting your overall appearance, an overbite can present other health issues such as dental injuries to teeth and gums, jaw discomfort, speech impediments, and more.
How is an Overbite Corrected?
There is a variety of options for correcting an overbite, all of which your Empire Orthodontic team can help.
Traditional Braces/Metal Braces
For treating severe overbites, traditional braces are regarded as the gold standard of treatment.
Traditional braces gradually shift teeth into ideal positions by applying constant, consistent pressure over time. Traditional braces are typically the quickest and most efficient technique to treat most types of overbites since they cannot be removed at home.
When using traditional braces, the orthodontist often begins by taking x-rays to determine the position of your teeth. Then, your upper and lower teeth are connected by a metal wire attached to metal brackets.
Rubber bands are fastened to the wires and branches, and the constant pressure from these elastic bands on the teeth helps to force the lower teeth forward and to realign the upper teeth.
Lingual Braces
The function of lingual braces is the same as that of traditional braces. The distinction is that they are attached to the back of the teeth rather than the front. The advantages of regular braces are offered with lingual braces, but they are almost undetectable while worn.
Clear Aligners
Invisalign is used for minor-to-moderate overbites. Your teeth won’t move while the aligners are not in your mouth since no force is applied. The pressure they apply is not constant enough to correct serious overbites.
Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic surgery, commonly known as jaw bone surgery, may be necessary to correct severe overbite instances. Overbite surgery is typically undertaken when the overbite is brought on by a misalignment of the upper and lower jaws or a more serious structural problem with the face.
To address an overbite, jaw surgery is a part of a treatment package that includes braces or other orthodontic procedures.
Expert Orthodontic Care
If you or your child have an overbite that you’d like to correct, contact Empire Orthodontics today and schedule a free consultation. Our offices in Beavercreek and West Chester are conveniently located and can provide excellent dental care that our patients rate very highly.
