From understanding what a dental overbite is and the potential risks of ignoring it to contemplating different treatment options, properly managing and correcting this common dental issue is invaluable to smile aesthetics, day-to-day comfort, and the long-term health of teeth, bite, and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) that connects your lower jaw to your skull.
Today, we’re looking at dental overbites, what they are, and the various considerations and treatments involved in correcting them.
What Exactly Is an Overbite?
An overbite occurs when a person’s upper front teeth excessively overlap their lower front teeth. In severe cases, this creates a jaw misalignment, resulting in difficulty biting or chewing, speech issues, and jaw discomfort.
Risks of Untreated Overbites
Neglecting an overbite elevates the risk of myriad oral health complications. An untreated overbite can lead to issues like uneven tooth wear, dental fractures, and even tooth loss in the event of long-term neglect. Additionally, the misalignment that results from an overbite can make routine oral hygiene more challenging, resulting in an elevated risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Also, an overbite can put undue strain on jaw joints and muscles. Over time, this can result in chronic jaw pain, severe headaches, and TMJ disorders.
Common Treatments for Overbites
Orthodontic treatment, like braces or clear aligners (like Invisalign®), is often used to correct mild to moderate overbites. By gradually moving the patient’s teeth into proper alignment, these treatments alleviate the dental and jaw stress that often accompanies overbites. Another option is dental appliances like palate expanders or bite plates, which can help guide jaw growth in children or alleviate symptoms in adults.
In more severe cases, orthognathic (jaw) surgery may be necessary to reposition the jaws and create a more balanced bite.
Why Prompt Overbite Intervention Is Key
Seeking timely care from an orthodontist or dentist is essential for effectively managing overbites and preventing the potentially severe complications we discussed above. The first step to ensuring this is understanding the symptoms of an overbite and the treatments available to help you maintain a bright, balanced smile and a healthy and robust bite!
Safe, Comfortable, and Effective Overbite Care in Mitchell, SD
If you need a dentist near me Mitchel to guide you through treatment options for an overbite, including orthodontics, oral sedation, and tooth extractions, contact me, Dr. Melissa Maier, DDS, and our friendly Dental Health Partners team. Schedule a consultation today.