What Is an Overbite?
An overbite, also known as a deep bite, occurs when the upper front teeth overlap significantly with the lower front teeth. This dental condition can lead to various oral health issues if not addressed. When the upper teeth cover too much of the lower teeth, it can cause excessive wear on the lower teeth, jaw pain, and difficulty chewing. Overbites are common and can vary in severity, impacting both appearance and function. Recognising and addressing an overbite early can prevent further dental complications and improve overall oral health.
What Causes Overbite?
Several factors can contribute to the development of an overbite, including:
Genetics
Inherited traits, such as jaw shape and size, significantly influence the development of an overbite. If parents or close family members have had an overbite, there is a higher chance that their children may develop the condition. Genetic factors can impact the overall structure and alignment of teeth and jaws, making it crucial to monitor dental development from an early age.
Childhood Habits
Thumb sucking, prolonged use of a pacifier, or bottle feeding can impact the alignment of teeth. These habits apply pressure to the developing teeth and jaws, potentially pushing the upper teeth forward and lower teeth backward, resulting in an overbite. Early intervention to curb these habits can help in reducing the risk of developing an overbite.
Poor Oral Habits
Nail biting, pencil chewing, and tongue thrusting can exacerbate the condition. These habits create unnecessary stress on the teeth and jaws, further misaligning the bite. Over time, these habits can lead to a more pronounced overbite, requiring more extensive treatment to correct.
Misaligned Teeth
Crowded or crooked teeth can lead to improper bite alignment. When teeth do not have enough space to align correctly, they may shift in a way that causes the upper teeth to overlap excessively with the lower teeth. Orthodontic intervention can help in creating the necessary space and guiding teeth into their proper positions.
How to Know if You Have an Overbite?
Identifying an overbite may require a dental examination, but some common signs include:
Excessive Wear on the Lower Front Teeth
If you notice unusual wear or flattening of the lower front teeth, it may indicate an overbite. This wear occurs because the upper teeth exert more pressure on the lower teeth than normal, leading to accelerated enamel erosion.
Jaw Pain or Discomfort
Persistent jaw pain or discomfort can be a sign of an overbite. The misalignment can cause strain on the jaw muscles and joints, leading to pain and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Speech Difficulties
An overbite can affect the way you speak, leading to difficulties with pronunciation and articulation. This happens because the improper alignment of teeth can alter the position of the tongue and airflow during speech.
Difficulty in Closing Your Lips Completely Without Effort
If you find it challenging to close your lips without effort or strain, it could be due to an overbite. The excessive overlap of the upper teeth may force the lips apart, making it hard to close them comfortably.
Noticeable Overlap
A visible overlap of the upper teeth over the lower teeth when you bite down is a clear indicator of an overbite. This can often be seen in a mirror or noticed by a dentist during a routine check-up.
How to Fix an Overbite?
Treatment options for correcting an overbite depend on its severity and the underlying cause. Here are some common methods:
Orthodontic Treatment
Braces or clear aligners like Invisalign can gradually shift teeth into proper alignment. Orthodontic treatments are effective for both dental and skeletal overbites. The process involves regular adjustments to ensure the teeth move into the desired position over time. This approach not only corrects the overbite but also improves overall dental health and aesthetics.
Retainers
After the initial treatment with braces or aligners, retainers help maintain the corrected position of the teeth. Wearing a retainer as prescribed by your orthodontist ensures that the teeth do not revert to their original misaligned state. Retainers are typically used during the night, making them a convenient option for long-term maintenance.
Tooth Extraction
In cases where overcrowding contributes to the overbite, tooth extraction may be recommended. Removing one or more teeth creates the necessary space for the remaining teeth to align correctly. This method is typically used in conjunction with orthodontic treatments for optimal results.
If you’re experiencing overbite, get in touch with our team. We can provide dental solutions to restore your beautiful smile.
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