An overbite is a common dental misalignment where the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth when the mouth is closed. While a slight overlap, typically 2 to 4 millimeters, is considered normal and even necessary for proper dental function, a severe overbite goes beyond this healthy range. In such cases, the upper teeth extend considerably past the lower ones, sometimes completely concealing them. This condition is a type of malocclusion, which is the medical term for an incorrect bite or misalignment of the teeth.
Understanding Severe Overbites
Severe overbites can arise from genetic predispositions, such as a family history, influencing jaw shape and size. Certain childhood habits also play a role, such as prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use past the age of three, excessive nail biting, or persistent tongue thrusting, where the tongue pushes too far forward against the teeth. Issues with jaw growth and development, where the upper and lower jaws grow at different rates, can also contribute to a significant overbite.
A severe overbite can lead to various functional problems and discomfort. Individuals may experience difficulties with chewing and biting when teeth do not meet correctly. Speech impediments can also develop due to misalignment affecting the ability to pronounce certain sounds.
Excessive overlap can cause uneven tooth wear, potentially leading to chipping, cracking, or enamel erosion. Physical discomfort is another common impact, including jaw pain, headaches, and earaches, often relates to TMJ strain.
An overbite can also increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay due to challenges in maintaining proper oral hygiene. In some severe instances, an overbite can contribute to breathing issues, including obstructive sleep apnea, where the airway is partially blocked during sleep.
Correction Methods for Young Patients
Overbite correction in children and adolescents leverages their ongoing growth and development, allowing for adaptable treatment. Traditional braces, with metal or ceramic brackets and wires, gradually move teeth into proper alignment. They can also incorporate rubber bands or springs to guide the jaw.
Palatal expanders are frequently used for younger patients with narrow upper jaws. These devices widen the upper jaw over time, creating space for teeth and improving the bite.
Functional appliances guide jaw growth and reposition the lower jaw. Examples include the Herbst appliance, which encourages the lower jaw to move forward, and removable appliances like the Twin Block or Bionator. These appliances harness natural forces from muscle activity and jaw development to align the bite, often worn for several months to a year. In some cases, primary (baby) teeth removal may also be necessary to create space for adult teeth and facilitate bite correction.
Correction Methods for Adult Patients
Adult overbite treatment is more complex than for younger patients because their bones are fully developed, limiting growth modification options.
Traditional braces remain highly effective, using brackets and wires to move teeth and adjust the bite. Adult treatment duration might be longer than for adolescents, typically 12 to 36 months, depending on severity.
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, offer a less noticeable alternative for many adults. These custom-made, clear plastic trays gradually shift teeth and are removable for eating and oral hygiene. While effective for many dental overbites, clear aligners may have limitations in correcting severe skeletal overbites involving significant jaw misalignment.
For severe overbites that stem from an underlying skeletal discrepancy, orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery) may be necessary with orthodontic treatment. This procedure involves repositioning the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both, for proper alignment. Orthodontics typically precedes surgery to align teeth and continues afterward to finalize the bite.
Maintaining Your Corrected Bite
Maintaining a corrected bite after active orthodontic treatment is important for long-term success.
Teeth have a natural tendency to shift back towards their original positions, known as relapse. Retainers prevent this by holding teeth in their new, aligned positions while surrounding bone and tissues stabilize.
There are two main types of retainers: fixed and removable. Fixed retainers consist of thin wires bonded to the back surfaces of teeth, providing continuous support. Removable retainers, such as clear plastic trays or Hawley retainers, offer flexibility as they can be taken out for eating and cleaning.
Your orthodontist will provide specific instructions on how long and how often to wear your retainer, often including consistent use for a period, followed by nighttime use for many years, sometimes indefinitely.
Consistent retainer wear is important, as neglecting them can lead to gradual shifting and undo treatment. Alongside retainer use, maintaining diligent oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, is important. Routine follow-up appointments monitor bite stability and address concerns.
Selecting Your Orthodontic Specialist
Selecting the right professional for overbite correction is a significant step toward achieving a healthy, aligned bite.
It is beneficial to seek care from a certified orthodontist, as they possess specialized training beyond general dentistry. After dental school, orthodontists undergo an additional two to three years of focused residency training in diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities, including misaligned teeth and jaws. This extensive education equips them with a deeper understanding of tooth movement, jaw development, and complex bite corrections.
While some general dentists offer orthodontic services, an orthodontist’s practice is entirely dedicated to orthodontics, providing a higher level of experience and expertise.
When choosing a specialist, consider their experience with overbite cases similar to yours and review patient testimonials or before-and-after photos. Many orthodontists offer initial consultations, providing an opportunity to discuss treatment options, assess their approach, and ensure comfort with their team and the proposed personalized treatment plan.