Achieve a Balanced, Healthy Smile with Effective Treatment
At Hwang Orthodontics, we understand the impact that an overbite can have on both the function and appearance of your smile. An overbite occurs when the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth excessively, which can lead to a variety of issues such as difficulty chewing, jaw discomfort, and an imbalanced smile. Fortunately, with the right orthodontic treatment, we can help correct an overbite and restore the alignment of your teeth and jaw.
What is an Overbite?
An overbite is a common orthodontic issue where the upper front teeth extend over the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. While a small overbite is normal, an excessive overbite can lead to problems like tooth wear, gum damage, jaw pain, and difficulty chewing or speaking clearly. An overbite may be caused by factors such as genetics, thumb-sucking in childhood, or misaligned teeth.
Why Should You Correct an Overbite?
Correcting an overbite is important for both aesthetic and functional reasons. Addressing an overbite can help improve the appearance of your smile, as well as prevent or alleviate related dental problems. By aligning the teeth and jaw properly, you can enjoy better oral health, improved speech, and increased comfort while chewing.
Benefits of Overbite Correction
- Improved Function: Correcting an overbite can make it easier to chew, speak, and maintain proper oral health.
- Prevention of Tooth Damage: An overbite can lead to excessive wear on the teeth, but treatment can help prevent further damage.
- Relief from Jaw Pain: Overbites can cause jaw strain, but correction can relieve discomfort and prevent issues like TMJ.
- Aesthetic Improvement: By improving the alignment of your teeth and bite, treatment can enhance the overall appearance of your smile.
Signs of an Overbite
You may have an overbite if you experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- The upper teeth cover a large portion of the lower teeth when you bite down.
- Difficulty chewing or discomfort while eating.
- Jaw pain or stiffness, especially after eating or talking.
- Increased wear on the teeth, particularly the front teeth.
- A noticeable “buck-tooth” appearance.
How is an Overbite Corrected?
Overbite correction typically involves a combination of orthodontic treatments that work to align the teeth and jaws properly. At Hwang Orthodontics, we offer several treatment options to address overbites, depending on the severity of the issue:
Braces
Braces are one of the most common ways to correct an overbite. They consist of brackets, wires, and sometimes elastics that work together to move the teeth into proper alignment. Braces can help shift the position of the upper or lower teeth to improve the bite.
Invisalign®
For those who prefer a more discreet option, Invisalign® clear aligners offer a nearly invisible alternative to traditional braces. These removable aligners gradually shift your teeth into the desired position, and they are ideal for mild to moderate overbites.
Elastics (Rubber Bands)
In some cases, your orthodontist may recommend elastics to help align the teeth and jaw properly. Elastics are attached to the braces or aligners and can help adjust the bite, including an overbite, by applying gentle pressure on the teeth and jaw.
Jaw Surgery (for Severe Cases)
In rare cases, when the overbite is caused by significant jaw misalignment, jaw surgery may be recommended to reposition the upper or lower jaw. This procedure is usually only necessary for severe overbites that cannot be corrected with braces or aligners alone.
Start Your Overbite Correction Journey Today
If you’re ready to address your overbite and improve your smile, we’re here to help. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about how we can correct your overbite and restore your dental health. Let Hwang Orthodontics help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted!
