“Buck teeth” refers to a dental condition where the upper front teeth noticeably protrude beyond the lower teeth. Clinically, this is known as an overjet or Class II malocclusion. While often discussed for their visible appearance, overjets are treatable. Various effective solutions are available to address this dental alignment, improving oral health and confidence.
Defining and Understanding Causes
An overjet occurs when the upper front teeth extend horizontally past the lower teeth, distinguishing it from an overbite, which involves vertical overlap. This characteristic can arise from a combination of factors, often beginning in childhood.
Genetic predisposition plays a role in overjet development. Individuals may inherit jaw size or shape discrepancies, such as a larger upper jaw or a smaller, recessed lower jaw, leading to protruding upper teeth.
Habitual factors during childhood also contribute. Prolonged thumb or finger sucking can push upper front teeth forward. Extended pacifier use can have a similar effect. Tongue thrusting, where the tongue habitually presses against the back of the upper front teeth during swallowing or speaking, can also gradually push them out of alignment. Early loss of baby teeth or the presence of extra teeth can affect dental spacing, causing other teeth to shift and potentially leading to an overjet.
Why Consider Correction
Individuals consider correcting an overjet for functional, oral health, and social reasons, not just cosmetic ones. An uncorrected overjet can lead to difficulties in daily activities, such as biting or chewing certain foods effectively.
Protruding teeth also carry an increased risk of injury, like chips or fractures, due to their exposed position. Speech impediments, such as lisping, can result from an overjet, affecting clear pronunciation. Some individuals may also experience jaw pain or discomfort from strain on jaw muscles due to an improper bite.
From an oral health perspective, an overjet can contribute to uneven tooth wear, as the bite does not distribute forces evenly. Misalignment also makes maintaining proper oral hygiene challenging, increasing the likelihood of plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. The appearance of protruding front teeth can also influence an individual’s confidence and self-esteem.
Modern Treatment Options
Correcting an overjet often involves orthodontic solutions to realign teeth and jaws.
Braces
Orthodontic braces remain a widely used method. They employ brackets bonded to teeth and connected by wires, which are adjusted periodically to apply gentle, continuous pressure. This gradually moves teeth into desired positions. Braces are available in traditional metal, ceramic (tooth-colored), and lingual (placed on the inside of teeth) varieties, suitable for many cases.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners provide a nearly invisible alternative, such as Invisalign. These custom-made, removable plastic trays are worn sequentially, each set incrementally shifting teeth. Aligners are effective for mild to moderate overjets and offer the convenience of being removed for eating and oral hygiene.
Functional Appliances
Functional appliances are used in children and adolescents whose jaws are still developing. These devices, including Twin Blocks or Herbst appliances, guide jaw growth and encourage a harmonious relationship between the upper and lower jaws. While often perceived to “grow” jaws, research suggests they primarily work by tipping teeth and influencing dental alignment.
Retainers
After active orthodontic treatment, retainers are an important part of the overall process. These custom-made devices, which can be removable or fixed, maintain new tooth positions and prevent shifting. Retainers allow surrounding bone and tissues to stabilize around the newly aligned teeth, safeguarding long-term results.
Jaw Surgery
In severe overjet cases, especially with significant skeletal discrepancies, orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery) may be recommended. This surgical procedure typically works with orthodontics to correct underlying jaw misalignment, providing a comprehensive solution.
What to Expect During Treatment
The journey to correcting an overjet begins with an initial consultation with an orthodontist. During this first visit, the orthodontist conducts a thorough examination of the teeth, jaws, and facial structure, often including X-rays and digital scans or impressions to create a detailed picture of the bite. This comprehensive assessment allows the orthodontist to diagnose the specific type and severity of the overjet and discuss the patient’s goals and concerns. Based on this information, a personalized treatment plan will be presented, outlining the recommended appliances and estimated duration.
Treatment duration for an overjet varies considerably depending on the complexity of the case and the chosen method, typically ranging from several months to a few years. Throughout the treatment, patients can expect some level of discomfort, particularly after initial appliance placement or adjustments. This usually manifests as soreness in the teeth and gums, which generally subsides within a few days as the mouth adjusts. Temporary dietary modifications, such as eating softer foods, may be recommended to alleviate discomfort, and over-the-counter pain relievers or saltwater rinses can also help manage any soreness. Maintaining diligent oral hygiene becomes even more important during treatment, as braces or aligners can create new areas where food particles and plaque may accumulate.
The cost of correcting an overjet can vary widely, influenced by factors such as the severity of the condition, the type of treatment selected, and the overall duration. During the initial consultation, the orthodontist’s office will typically provide a breakdown of estimated costs and discuss available payment options, including potential dental insurance coverage. After the active phase of treatment is complete and appliances like braces or aligners are removed, post-treatment care is crucial for maintaining the achieved results. This phase involves consistent wear of retainers, which prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Regular follow-up appointments with the orthodontist ensure the stability of the new alignment and address any concerns as the teeth settle into their corrected positions.