What is an overbite>What is underbite>Overbite vs underbite
Simply put an overbite is the overlapping of the lower teeth over by the upper teeth. Conversely, an underbite is when as you close your mouth the lower front teeth are in front of your upper teeth. An overbite can be caused by the eruption of teeth and over the development of the upper jaw and or underdevelopment of the lower jaw. Rarely do people have the perfect best bite for their face because teeth erupt at random events. Overbites may also be a result of hereditary and genetics so they cannot be prescreened. It is important to treat overbites because if left untreated can lead to developmental problems which can also potentially damage the teeth.
Read the brief in detail Overbite vs Underbite and what’s the difference?
Normal overbite>Severe overbite>Overjet teeth
You will be surprised to learn that there is such a thing as a normal overbite which commonly exists when the degree of overlap is between one or two millimeters and is not considered as a malocclusion. A deep or severe overbite also known as vertical overbite can be anywhere between four to ten millimeters in the overlap. Related but not the same an overjet is the condition when the top front teeth point outwards and protrude over the bottom teeth also known as “protrusion”.
How to fix an overbite>Overbite correction>Overbite treatment
Invisalign can be used to treat overbite and consists of a treatment plan of wearing clear aligners which are replaced typically every 2 weeks. Similar to braces, and also depending on the complexity of the overbite, treatment can take months to years. Invisalign is the best solution when applied to mild or moderate overbite conditions.
Braces are very popular in the correction of overbite by first straightening teeth then pulling the top teeth back. Depending on the severity of the overbite the treatment time can vary from months to years. Deep overbites are the best candidates for braces however the downside is that it makes oral hygiene a little more challenging.
Surgery should be reserved for extreme cases where the overbite is skeletal. This specific procedure will help reposition the jaw. Since children’s jaws are still under development and continuously shifting it is recommended that overbite is treated when the child stops growing usually in late teens.
How can Smile Studio Orthodontics help?
If you have further questions please contact our Smile Studio Orthodontics Richmond Tx. Our office staff will be more than happy to speak with you about your concerns.