An overbite is not just a cosmetic issue. It negatively affects the function of the mouth, jaw and airway causing a host of health concerns such as reduced oxygen supply, snoring and sleep apnea.

Bite misalignment often results from certain habits such as thumb sucking, chewing on hard objects and teeth grinding (bruxism). Some people also have a naturally smaller lower jaw.

Causes

An overbite happens when the lower jaw is smaller than the upper jaw, causing the front teeth to overlap each other. If this condition goes untreated it could lead to a variety of serious dental issues, including irreparable damage to the teeth and possible temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain. Severe overbites can also dramatically alter the facial structure and cause psychological problems like low self-esteem.

The most common cause of an overbite is genetics. This is because the size and shape of a person’s jaw and teeth are often determined at birth. Other causes of an overbite include thumb sucking as a child, the overuse of a pacifier and the early loss of baby teeth. Bruxism (teeth grinding) can also lead to an overbite, especially if it is done on a regular basis.

Overbites can affect people of all ages, although it’s usually easier to treat an overbite in children than in adolescents or adults. This is because children’s teeth are still growing, and a braces treatment can help to straighten the smile.

Symptoms

If left untreated, overbite can cause a variety of oral health problems. The most obvious symptom is that the upper and lower teeth overlap, which some people refer to as “buck teeth.” This overbite can also make chewing and speaking difficult. It can lead to jaw pain like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder and increase tooth decay and gum disease. It can also cause facial pain, a lisp, and an uneven appearance.

An overbite can often be treated with braces or clear aligner therapy. Children with severe overbites may need a palate expander, an orthodontic device that gradually widens the roof of the mouth. An overbite can be corrected in adults, too, using braces or a retainer to slowly shift teeth into a more even position and jaw alignment. In rare cases, surgery is necessary. The recessed mouth and jaw caused by overbite can obstruct the airway while sleeping, leading to sleep apnea. This can lead to extreme fatigue, poor cognitive function, and depression.

Treatment

Overbites can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues that require expensive treatment. They can also make it harder to smile and speak, which can impact social relationships and rob you of the feel-good endorphins that come from laughing and smiling.

If left untreated, an overbite can lead to jaw pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. It can also cause loose teeth, which damage soft tissue and expose sensitive nerves.

There are a variety of treatment options for overbites, from traditional braces to Invisalign and clear aligners. For severe overbites that are caused by skeletal problems, surgery is sometimes necessary. An experienced orthodontist can recommend the best option for your situation, taking into account your age and the severity of the overbite.

Prevention

Generally, it is best to address overbites early. This can minimize complications such as jaw pain, overcrowded teeth and headaches while also promoting oral health. In addition to orthodontic treatments like braces and clear aligners, patients can make lifestyle changes that promote healthy teeth and a strong jaw such as maintaining good posture and avoiding chewing on hard objects.

Additionally, children should be weaned off thumb sucking and pacifier use by the age of three. This can help to prevent an overbite by preventing the tongue from pushing back against the front teeth.

Adults should avoid habits that can lead to an overbite such as clenching and grinding the teeth and schedule regular dental checkups to spot any problems and correct them promptly. If you have a skeletal overbite or a bite that is out of alignment, surgery may be needed to correct the problem. This can offer a permanent solution to severe overbites while offering the added benefit of an improved smile and overall self-esteem.