They often say, “don’t bite off more than you can chew,” and it can be taken as practical advice; especially when it comes to your oral health. But for people with an overbite, it often can’t be helped.
An overbite, which can affect both children and adults, can result in misaligned teeth and other issues if not corrected. It’s critical to take action and address your overbite as soon as you can. However, a lot of people may not be aware of the best way to treat an overbite, leading them to put off treatment.
In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about overbites, and whether or not you should get treatment for it.
What is an Overbite?
An overbite is when the top teeth protrude past the bottom teeth. This can range from a slight overlap to a large amount of overlap. In most cases, the amount of overlap between the upper and lower teeth is minimal and helps with activities such as smiling and chewing.
An overbite can be mild or severe, depending on the amount of overlap. Mild overbites are common in children, and can often be corrected with dental appliances such as braces or Invisalign. Severe overbites, on the other hand, may require more extensive treatment, such as jaw surgery.
Skeletal vs. Dental Overbite
There are two types of overbites: skeletal and dental. A skeletal overbite is caused by an imbalance in the jaw structure, while a dental overbite is caused by misaligned teeth. Skeletal overbites can only be corrected with jaw surgery, while dental overbites can be treated with braces or Invisalign.
Overbites can be inherited, caused by genetics, and can also form from certain habits, such as thumb-sucking, that push the jaw and teeth back. It is possible to develop an overbite from multiple sources.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge that connects the jawbone and the skull and when it does not function properly, it can cause various issues. Many people are familiar with the pain that a weak TMJ can cause, but it can also lead to an overbite.
Should You Correct an Overbite?
Having unprotected lower teeth can be dangerous. If a tooth is broken or lost, it can make it difficult to communicate or eat properly. Additionally, an overbite can cause sleep apnea, which stops air from flowing properly, depriving your body of oxygen and potentially leading to sleep deprivation and heart problems.
Correcting an Overbite with Invisalign
Invisalign is a discreet, comfortable, and effective way to correct an overbite. The aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth and gradually shift them into the correct position. The aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating and brushing.
Conclusion
The decision to correct an overbite should be based on the severity of the problem and the impact it has on your quality of life. If the overbite is causing pain or difficulty in speaking, eating, or smiling, then it is likely worth pursuing treatment. Treatment options depend on the severity of the overbite and can include braces, surgery, or a combination of both.
If you want to correct your overbite, Galleria Dental of Alexandria can help you out. We are a cosmetic dentist in Alexandria, VA that will offer solutions such as Invisalign to treat your overbite. Get in touch with us today to learn how.