An overbite is a common dental alignment issue where the upper front teeth extend noticeably over the lower front teeth. This condition, a type of malocclusion or “bad bite,” can range from mild to severe, affecting both aesthetics and oral function. While a slight overlap of 2 to 4 millimeters is considered normal for proper bite function, anything beyond this range is classified as an overbite and often requires treatment.
Understanding Overbites
Overbites stem from various causes, broadly categorized into skeletal and dental factors. Skeletal overbites arise from an inherited imbalance in jawbone size or position, often where the lower jaw is smaller than the upper jaw.
Dental overbites are influenced by external factors and habits. Persistent behaviors like thumb-sucking, prolonged pacifier use, or excessive bottle feeding beyond age three can affect developing teeth and jaw structures, leading to misalignment. Tongue thrusting, where the tongue pushes against the front teeth during swallowing or speaking, also contributes to this condition.
Professional Treatment Options
Correcting an overbite involves various professional orthodontic treatments tailored to the individual’s age and the severity of the condition. For children and adolescents whose bones are still developing, early intervention can be highly effective. Functional appliances, like the Herbst appliance, guide the growth of the jawbones by posturing the lower jaw forward, helping to correct the discrepancy. Palate expanders can also be used to widen the upper jaw arch.
Traditional metal or ceramic braces are widely used for correcting overbites in adolescents and adults, working by gradually shifting teeth into proper alignment through a system of brackets and wires. Rubber bands, or elastics, are often used with braces to apply continuous force, pulling the upper teeth back and the lower teeth forward to achieve the correct bite. This process can take one to three years, depending on the complexity of the case.
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, offer a more discreet and removable alternative to braces, suitable for mild to moderate overbites. These custom-made plastic trays are worn for 20 to 22 hours daily and are swapped out every one to two weeks, with each new tray applying subtle pressure to gradually move the teeth. For teenagers, some clear aligner systems include precision wings designed to advance the lower jaw.
In severe cases, especially those with significant jawbone misalignment, orthognathic surgery may be necessary. This procedure repositions the jawbones to improve alignment and bite function, often with orthodontic treatment to prepare the teeth. Tooth extractions can also be considered in severe crowding cases to create space for teeth to move into proper alignment.
Preventing Overbites
Proactive measures can help prevent the development or worsening of overbites, especially in children. Addressing detrimental oral habits early is a primary focus. Discouraging thumb-sucking and prolonged pacifier use, particularly after age three or four, is recommended, as persistent sucking can alter tooth position and jaw development. Parents can use positive reinforcement, distractions, or alternative comfort objects to help children break these habits.
Limiting prolonged bottle feeding can also mitigate potential issues. For habits like tongue thrusting, early detection by a dental professional is beneficial. Orthodontic appliances or speech therapy can be recommended to retrain the tongue muscles and prevent misalignment. Regular dental check-ups starting at a young age allow dentists to monitor oral development and intervene early if concerning habits or signs of an overbite appear.
When to Consult a Professional
Seeking timely advice from an orthodontist is beneficial if concerns about an overbite arise. A professional evaluation is warranted if there is a visible and significant overlap of the upper front teeth over the lower teeth, especially if it exceeds 2 to 4 millimeters. Difficulty chewing food, speech impediments, or persistent jaw pain and discomfort also suggest a misaligned bite. Other symptoms include uneven wear on teeth, headaches, or difficulty fully opening or closing the mouth.
The American Association of Orthodontists suggests that children should have their first orthodontic evaluation around age seven or eight, even if no obvious problems are present. Only a qualified orthodontist can accurately diagnose the type and severity of an overbite and recommend the most suitable course of action for correction.