Categories: Braces

Corrective Braces For an Overjet

Many of us have likely had or know someone who has had corrective braces for crooked or misaligned teeth. However, there are many more types of teeth-related issues that braces may treat. 

 

Let’s examine how braces can be used to correct an alignment issue known as an overjet, including what exactly an overjet is, how it can affect your oral health, and how braces can help.

What is an overjet?

An overjet is a term many may not be familiar with. Typically most people are familiar with the term overbite, a spacing issue between the top and bottom rows of teeth that causes a person’s bite to be misaligned. While an overbite is characterized by the vertical spacing between the top and bottom teeth, an overjet is very different. 

On the other hand, an overjet refers to the protrusion of the top row of teeth, specifically them sticking out further than the bottom teeth. This is colloquially known as “buck teeth” and can have severe consequences if left untreated.  

An untreated overjet can cause the lower jaw to rest uncomfortably and unnaturally, leading to other dental issues, possibly even TMJ (lockjaw). 

Causes of an overjet

Several factors can cause an overjet. Genetic factors may cause minor overjets, but more severe overjets are likely caused by behavior in childhood that affects the position of the front teeth. 

Excessive thumb sucking, pacifier use, bottle suckling, and even pressing against the front teeth with the tongue can all shift the position of the front teeth and cause an overjet. It’s best to correct these behaviors as soon as possible to prevent severe dental complications from occurring. 

While there are many options to repair an overjet, if the overjet happens in adulthood or remains untreated into adulthood, then the scope of the damage may require oral surgery before the overbite can be corrected using corrective braces

How corrective braces can help an overjet 

If caught early, one of the best ways to correct an overjet is with braces. Most overjets can be corrected using standard metal or ceramic braces or even clear plastic aligners. The best time to correct the issue is in early childhood before the condition can become severe or create other dental issues. 

Braces and aligners work by gradually shifting the teeth into position over time until they are straight. Typically, braces are installed over the teeth and are adjusted manually by your dentist at regular intervals in order to safely and effectively move the teeth into the proper position. 

This is often why parents of children with an overjet will choose to get braces over other options so that spacing issues can be corrected over time. This way, the entire smile can be straightened out at one time, especially if the overjet has caused crowding or shifting for the other teeth. 

Request an appointment here: https://hwangorthodontics.com or call Kathleen C. Hwang Orthodontics at (626) 425-9986 for an appointment in our Monrovia office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Corrective Braces in Monrovia, CA.

 

Recent Posts

Why Clear Braces For Teens Are Recommended

Clear braces for teens are recommended when a dentist notices that your child is developing teeth or jaw alignment issues. The American Association of Orthodontists advises taking your child for orthodontic assessment once they reach the age of 7.At this point, their smile should be fully developed and developing issues can be detected. Appliances like…

Traditional Braces Vs. Clear Braces For Teens

Clear braces for teens and traditional braces are two popular options for teenagers who need teeth straightening treatments. Braces are the first effective procedure for straightening teeth and have been used since the 1800s.Virtually everyone on the planet grew up with someone who wore braces, and that is a testament to how effective these devices…

Transform Your Smile Today With Orthodontic Treatment

Curious about orthodontic treatment? Read on to learn more. Straight teeth and properly aligned jaws make for a healthy and functional smile. Many people are lucky to have naturally straight teeth, but others require orthodontic intervention to correct overcrowding, gaps, or misalignment. In some cases, orthodontic therapy can extend far beyond repositioning the teeth in…

How Retainers Keep Your Smile Aligned

Wondering whether wearing retainers is really necessary? Read on to learn more. You know braces and aligners can help you get those straight teeth you desire, but retainers are the next step. These little devices will keep your teeth aligned and your smile beautiful for years.Retainers are custom orthodontic devices that help keep the teeth…

Dr. Hwang

Share
Published by
Dr. Hwang

Recent Posts

Transform Your Smile Today with Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment involves the use of specialized devices to move teeth gradually and precisely in…

2 weeks ago

How Retainers Keep Your Smile Aligned

Retainers are custom orthodontic devices that help keep the teeth straight after braces or aligners…

2 months ago

Braces Specialist: Your Path To Straighter Teeth

Orthodontists treat many different types of dental problems, including misaligned teeth, crowded teeth or gaps…

2 months ago

6 Benefits of Invisalign®

Although lots of individuals are aware of the aesthetic advantages of Invisalign®, like a straighter…

4 months ago

3 Teeth Straightening Treatments or a Beautiful Smile

Nowadays, multiple options exist for those looking to realign their teeth, but it may be…

5 months ago

Orthodontist Near Me: Your Path to a Confident Smile

If you are looking for "an orthodontist near me," choose one who actively engages with…

6 months ago