Overbites are teeth alignment problems where the upper teeth protrude over the lower set. The difference in proportion can be as high as fifty perfect, which can lead to a problem known as malocclusion. It is essential for you not to confuse overbites with crooked teeth. This is a much more complicated problem than just a tooth looking out of place. An overbite implies that your teeth and jaw are not in proper alignment.
This problem can occur due to genetics, as some individuals are born with a malformed jaw that does not line up correctly with the upper teeth. The overbites can be of two main types - vertical overbites (the frontier teeth significantly overlap the lower set) and horizontal overbites (the upper teeth protrude over the lower set).
You can experience symptoms of two different types of malocclusion. The problem of overbites can be further categorized into skeletal overbites and dental overbites. As the name suggests, the term “dental overbites” is used when your teeth are primarily responsible for the overbite. In contrast, skeletal overbites refer to the problem being caused due to your jaw.
What Are The Causes Of An Overbite?
The size or shape of your teeth and jaw are the main reasons that can lead to an overbite. It can ultimately result in your mouth not having enough space to accommodate all the teeth or having too much space in the jaw area. You can face the problem of teeth crowding or crooked teeth if the overbite is not fixed properly on time.
Children and infants are more susceptible to overbites. Habits like the constant use of a pacifier and sucking a thumb can contribute to the chances of having an overbite. The American Dental Association says that almost seventy percent of in the United States show signs of having an overbite.
Some of the other causes that can lead to overbites are:
- TMJ disorders
- Teeth grinding
- History of overbites in your family
How To Treat Overbites?
Most dentists recommend consulting an orthodontist if you suffer from an overbite problem. This problem can be easily resolved in the case of children as the jaw is still in the development phase at that stage. Many individuals who have overbites first have the problem as children, frequently resulting in more complicated situations.
Your dentist will evaluate your situation during the appointment and suggest the most suitable course of action. Remember that the overbite treatment can take up to two years to complete. Some of the treatments that can be recommended by a dentist to treat overbite are:
- Braces
- Surgery
- Porcelain veneers
- Dental implants
- Removal of permanent teeth
Can Porcelain Veneers Be Used To Treat Overbites?
Porcelain veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures used in today’s time. This treatment involves the usage of thin porcelain shells that are applied to the outer surface of the teeth. The enamel (outermost layer of the human teeth) is slightly shaved off to attach the porcelain veneers.
The porcelain veneers can be used to treat minor overbites where the margin is not beyond the scope of cosmetic dentistry.
If you suffer from an overbite problem, do not hesitate to get in touch with a dentist near you. Consulting a dental professional will help determine which treatment is perfect for an overbite.