Most people get adult braces for two reasons. The main reason is aesthetics such as crooked smiles and teeth that are not aligned. Secondly, braces can fix more serious issues such as an overbite. This condition can cause severe problems and affect your oral health in the long run. However, many people do not understand what an overbite is or how it can be fixed with braces. In this article, you will learn what an overbite is, what causes an overbite, and the most common treatments of an overbite.
Do you have an overbite?
Some people might believe that having upper teeth protruding beyond their lower teeth is an overbite. However, orthodontists clarify that an overbite occurs when the front teeth cover the lower teeth too much. An excessive overbite causes the teeth to wear down and may even cause the bottom teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth. There are different levels of severity that will determine how the overbite is treated. Meanwhile, an overjet (often confused with an overbite) is when the upper teeth extend over the bottom teeth but at an angle.
What causes an overbite?
People typically inherit the condition from their family through genetics. Genetics determine the shape of your jaw and how your teeth will grow. However, some external factors can also lead to an overbite, such as nail biting, bruxism, thumb-sucking or using a pacifier beyond age 3, and tongue-thrusting (when your tongue pushes forward too much, affecting your teeth).
What are the treatments for an overbite?
Adult braces are the standard treatment for an overbite, but the severity of the condition will determine the kind of metalwork you need. Most of the time, simple braces will do the trick. Although, some patients might need to use them for longer. However, there are some occasions where other accessories will be added to speed up the treatment.
Sometimes, a patient might need growth modification accessories or the pitts 21 system of braces which allows for the palate to expand without using an expander. In adults, there’s a chance some teeth will need to be removed to align the others. Furthermore, patients will probably need retainers after their adult braces are removed. In the most severe cases, surgery might be the ideal option.
If you have an overbite and are unhappy with your smile, adult braces may be the perfect solution for you. Adult braces will correct the issue and give you a smile you can be proud of. If you need any work done, call Dr. Herman at Four Corners Orthodontics today. We would be happy to answer any of your questions.