Orthodontic Treatments For An Overbite

If you are looking for an experienced team to correct your bite issue, you’re in the safest hands with E11even Dental. We are incredibly proud of our array of orthodontic treatments and the difference they can make to someone’s life.

Our orthodontists understand that your smile is one of the first things that other people notice about you. If you’re not comfortable with it, this can begin to impact your confidence and how you view yourself. Our orthodontic treatments help to fix bite issues and leave you with a smile you’re proud to show off.

One common bite issue is an overbite. Most of us have an overbite but one that is too deep can become a dental concern and may need orthodontic treatment. 

We’ve put together this guide on how to fix an overbite and the recommended treatments.

What Is An Overbite?

An overbite is a malocclusion that occurs when the upper jaw overlaps the lower jaw. 

There are two main types of overbites:

A skeletal overbite is where the lower jaw is significantly smaller than the upper jaw. This results in the teeth in the upper row being pushed forward.

A dental overbite is where the poor alignment of teeth pushes the lower jaw back. This then results in a noticeable overbite.

What Causes An Overbite?

There are many factors that can cause an overbite. The most common cause is the shape of your jaw and teeth. This could be simply due to genetics. If you have too much or too little room in your jaw for all of your teeth, this can lead to an overbite.

There are other bad habits that can lead to an overbite, such as thumb sucking or grinding teeth. Non-genetic overbites are often formed when a child picks up habits like thumb sucking or when an adult bites their nails or chews on pens. A condition called Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TJD), which affects the movement of the jaw, can also be a contributing factor.

Here at E11even Dental, our experienced team will take the time to understand the cause of your overbite and discuss with you the best way to keep your bite protected.

4 Overbite Treatments

The treatment for an overbite may depend on the severity of it. You may need just one treatment or you may need a combination.

Our highly skilled orthodontists in Harley District, London, regularly correct overbites using the following treatments:

Metal Braces

Although metal braces can fix crooked and misaligned teeth, they are also able to correct an overbite. 

The metal braces will be attached to the teeth to straighten them. Once the teeth are straightened, your orthodontist will fit elastic bands to slowly move your jaw into the correct position. After your overbite treatment, you must continue to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in the correct position.

Surgery

Some severe overbites may need to be corrected through surgery. Corrective jaw surgery is usually performed by moving the lower jaw forward and the upper jaw backward. The jaw bone is cut, reshaped and repositioned. 

Adults with fully developed jaws and a severe overbite are most likely to be recommended for jaw surgery.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners like Invisalign are sometimes recommended to treat an overbite. Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners that mould the patient’s teeth to the correct position. As overbite treatment continues, the patient will then switch to different trays that aim to eventually correct the overbite altogether. 

Invisalign and other clear aligners are often chosen because they are discreet. It will not be noticeable that you’re wearing them during treatment and you can remove them for up to 2 hours a day.

Tooth Extraction

In some cases where overcrowding is causing an overbite, tooth extraction may be recommended. By removing several teeth, the rest of the teeth can move into their normal position.

Don’t Ignore Your Overbite

Ignoring your overbite and avoiding treatment can lead to jaw pain, headaches and even discomfort when eating. You also put yourself at risk for developing tooth decay, cavities and gum disease.

An overbite can negatively affect your appearance, resulting in crooked teeth and other structural mouth changes.

If you have an overbite, the best thing to do is seek treatment. To learn more about how to fix an overbite and other bite issues at E11even Dental, click here.

Let Us Correct Your Bite

If you suspect that you may have a bite problem, please do not hesitate to get in touch with E11even Dental today. We pay special attention to fixing overbites because we understand how much bite issues can impact your day-to-day life.

Our experienced orthodontists will take the time to establish the best treatment plan for your overbite. Whether Invisalign, jaw surgery or other general dental treatments are recommended, we will do everything we can to help with your bite issue.

Book your consultation with one of our orthodontists in London today. Call our award-winning Harley District practice now on 020 3885 1420.