Bite the Bullet: Correct Your Overbite

An overbite, or maxillary protrusion, is a common orthodontic condition where the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth. It can affect a person’s appearance, speech, and chewing ability.

Types of Overbites

There are three main types of overbites:

• Deep overbite: The upper teeth overlap the lower teeth by more than half the height of the lower teeth.
• Horizontal overbite: The upper teeth overlap the lower teeth horizontally but not vertically.
• Vertical overbite: The upper teeth overlap the lower teeth vertically but not horizontally.

Causes of Overbites

Several factors can contribute to the development of an overbite, including:

• Genetics: Inherited traits can play a role in the development of an overbite.
• Habits: Thumb-sucking or pacifier use can contribute to an overbite.
• Mouth breathing: Mouth breathing can alter the position of the tongue and jaw, leading to an overbite.
• Injury or trauma: An injury to the jaw or teeth can cause an overbite to develop.

Effects of Overbites

An overbite can have several adverse effects, including:

• Difficulty chewing: An overbite can make it difficult to chew food correctly, leading to digestive problems.
• Jaw pain: The strain on the jaw joints caused by an overbite can lead to pain and discomfort.
• Speech problems: An overbite can affect your speech, making it difficult to pronounce certain sounds.
• Self-consciousness: An overbite can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance.

Orthodontic Treatment for Overbites

Orthodontic treatment is the most effective way to correct an overbite. The type of treatment will depend on the severity of the overbite and the patient’s needs.

• Braces: Traditional metal braces are often used to correct overbites. They apply gentle pressure to the teeth to move them into the correct position.
• Invisalign: Invisalign is a transparent aligner system that uses a series of custom-made aligners to straighten teeth gradually.
• Headgear: In some cases, headgear may be used with braces to help correct an overbite.

Orthodontist in Prairie Village and Lenexa

If you or your child has an overbite, Toombs Orthodontics can help. Our experienced orthodontists can provide the treatment you need to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.

Schedule an appointment today to learn more about overbite treatment.