There Are Solutions to Overbites: Learn Three Options That Could Make Your Life More Comfortable
Very few people are born with perfectly straight teeth. Some people have crooked teeth, some have overbites, and some have underbites. While you might think your overbite is something you must learn to live with, there might actually be a solution. Keep reading to learn about three of the potential options and then contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to learn more.
There Are Actually Two Type of Overbite
First, let us consider what an overbite is. There are two types, the first of which is horizontal. This involves the teeth sticking out in front of a person’s bottom teeth. The second type, the vertical overlap, involves the top teeth overlapping the bottom teeth. Note that most people will have a slight overbite or underbite – the issue is if it is a significant amount below or above the teeth.
- Invisalign is a Solution to a Mild Overbite
- Braces is a Solution for a Moderate Overbite
- Surgery is a Solution for Extreme Cases of Overbite
Invisalign is one of the most common solutions to an overbite. It is a treatment option that involves the patient wearing a clear aligner most of the day. The purpose is to straighten the teeth. Every two weeks or so, the retainers are switched out. The treatment takes several months to two years, but it can provide a great option for many people. If the overbite is not severe, then it can shift your teeth and/or jawline to repair the overbite.
For many years, braces were the most common solution to treat overbites, and that is still true for moderately serious overbites. There are two stages to braces. First, we work on straightening the teeth. Once that is done, we begin to focus on fixing the overbite. This involves using braces and rubber bands to pull back the top teeth. This can take months or years. The more severe the overbite is, the longer the process will take.
The main downside to braces is that they make it harder for the patient to keep their teeth and gums clean and well cared for. As a result, they are at a higher risk of tooth decay and gum issues including gum disease.
great solution for a more severe overbite. The downside of braces is the fact that they make oral hygiene more difficult, and patients are at a much higher risk for tooth decay and gum problems.
In the event that a patient has very extreme overbite, and the issue is skeletal, surgery might be the only solution. This is more common in adults because the jaws of children continue to shift as they age. For this reason, surgery is not generally recommended until the jaw has stopped growing, which happens in the late teens or early 20s.
If you have an overbite, or your child does, and you want to find out the best solutions for your unique needs, contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to make an appointment.
