Can Braces Fix an Overbite?

When your upper dental arch rests significantly in front of your lower dental arch, this is known as an overbite. Overbites are one of the most common types of misalignment. Fortunately, a very mild overbite can be corrected with clear aligners, and traditional braces alone can correct almost all other overbites.

About Overbites

An overbite can be caused by a child’s genetics or their environment. Environmental causes include prolonged thumb-sucking, bottle-feeding, or pacifier use.

Adults can also develop an overbite because of:

• Smoking cigars

• Biting fingernails

• Chewing on ice

• Grinding teeth

A significant overbite can cause other problems, such as:

• Increased risk of gum disease

• Increased risk of tooth decay

• Weak enamel

• Headaches

• Jaw pain

• Slurred speech

• Changes in facial structure

Treating an Overbite with Braces

For children, teens, and adults with overbites, it is best to start treatment as soon as possible. It is generally easier to fix an overbite in a child or a teenager, because their jaws are still developing.

To determine whether treatment is necessary, your orthodontist will conduct X-rays of your or your child’s teeth. Then he or she will attach braces to the upper and lower teeth, or, for very mild cases, you will be given clear aligners to wear.

The first stage of treatment is when your braces will slowly shift your teeth into proper alignment. During the second stage, your orthodontist will provide you with small rubber bands to attach to the upper and lower teeth, which will slowly shift the teeth and/or jaw into the correct bite position. You should wear these rubber bands at all times, only removing them to eat, drink, or brush your teeth.

For more information on using braces to fix an overbite, don’t hesitate to call our office or stop by Ridge View Dental. Our staff are happy to answer your questions!