Searching for how to fix overbite in Overland Park, KS? Begin your journey with a consultation at Lenius Orthodontics. During your first visit, the orthodontist will check your bite alignment and create a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include braces, Invisalign aligners, or—if needed—jaw surgery. At Lenius Orthodontics, you’ll find effective treatment options to transform your smile and improve your oral health.
Fixing an overbite does more than improve your appearance. It can enhance the way you speak, solve bite issues, and help maintain healthy jaw structure. If you’re ready to improve your smile, schedule a consultation with Lenius Orthodontics today.
Understanding Overbites
What is an Overbite?
An overbite happens when the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth too much. Some overlap is normal, but when it is excessive, it can lead to problems like tooth wear, bite misalignment, and jaw discomfort. Many people in Overland Park experience overbites, and they can be corrected with the right orthodontic care, such as braces or Invisalign treatment.
What Causes an Overbite?
Overbites occur for several reasons:
- Genetics: The size and shape of your jaw structure and teeth are often inherited.
- Childhood Habits: Thumb-sucking, pacifiers, or nail-biting can cause teeth misalignment and overbites.
- Jaw Growth Problems or Injuries: Uneven jaw development can lead to bite alignment issues over time.
- Teeth Crowding or Spacing Issues: When teeth don’t align properly, an overbite may develop.
Every patient’s case is unique, but Lenius Orthodontics provides evaluation and treatment options tailored to the specific causes of your overbite.
Why Should Overbites Be Fixed?
Untreated overbites can lead to long-term oral health and bite issues. Four reasons to address an overbite include:
- Better Jaw Growth Management: Early treatment during jaw development makes overbite correction easier and more effective.
- Improved Speech and Function: Severe overbites may interfere with speech or chewing.
- Confidence Boost: An overbite may alter the way your smile looks, affecting self-esteem.
- Lower Costs Over Time: Fixing overbites early can prevent bigger problems and costly treatment later.
Correcting an overbite protects your long-term oral health and boosts your confidence.
Exam and Diagnosis at Lenius Orthodontics
What Happens During a Consultation?
At Lenius Orthodontics, you’ll start with a thorough evaluation. This includes:
- Bite and Smile Analysis: The orthodontist reviews your bite problems and tooth alignment.
- X-Rays and Imaging: Tools like digital x-rays and 3D imaging show your jaw structure and teeth alignment.
- Personal Consultation: You’ll discuss effective treatment measures, including treatment time estimates and long-term solutions.
Advanced Technology for Diagnosis
Lenius Orthodontics uses state-of-the-art technology for accurate diagnoses and treatment plans:
- 3D Photomorphometry and Cone Beam 3D CT Scans: These tools provide clear visuals of teeth, bone alignment, and jaw mechanics, helping to create detailed treatment plans.
- Bite Analysis Systems: These tests ensure bite alignment is accurately assessed.
- Digital X-Rays: Quick, clear images help identify any malocclusion, overjet, or crossbite.
These tools enable Lenius Orthodontics to design personalized treatment guidelines for every patient.
Treatment Options for Overbites
Overbites can be treated using a variety of orthodontic appliances. The best option depends on your bite misalignment and jaw development.
1. Braces
Traditional braces are one of the most common ways to correct overbites. Braces apply consistent pressure to move teeth into proper alignment.
- Metal Braces: A durable and affordable choice.
- Clear Braces: These are more discreet but still effective for bite alignment.
Braces are often used for both overbite and underbite corrections. As noted by Dr. Sam Titus, a highly recommended orthodontist in Westfield, IN,Treatment duration usually takes 18–24 months and may involve elastic bands for jaw adjustments.
2. Invisalign Aligners
Invisalign treatment is a popular alternative to braces for those seeking discreet care. These clear aligners:
- Are custom-made for your unique teeth spacing and alignment needs.
- Are nearly invisible when worn.
- Can easily be removed during meals and brushing.
Dr. Leonardo Koerich, a leading orthodontist in Charlotte, NC, advises that to achieve the best results, Invisalign aligners should be worn for 20–22 hours daily. Regular evaluations at Lenius Orthodontics track your treatment progress.
3. Jaw Expanders, Appliances, and Headgear
Other orthodontic appliances can address specific bite misalignment, including:
- Jaw Expanders: These widen the jaw to create more space for crowded teeth.
- Headgear: This device helps align the jaw structure in severe cases.
- Orthodontic Appliances: Custom devices correct overjet, crossbite, and other bite issues.
4. Jaw Surgery
For severe bite alignment problems, jaw surgery may be necessary. Surgery repositions the upper or lower jaw to fix bite problems and improve jaw mechanics. Combining jaw surgery with braces or aligners ensures the best results in complex cases.
Cost of Overbite Treatment
Treatment Costs
The cost of fixing an overbite varies based on the complexity of the case and treatment measures:
- Braces: Typically $3,000–$7,000, depending on the materials and treatment duration.
- Invisalign Aligners: Usually $3,000–$6,000, depending on the number of aligners needed.
Payment Plans and Insurance
Lenius Orthodontics offers flexible insurance plans and financing options to make orthodontic care affordable. Treatments can also be paid using HSA or FSA accounts. Early treatment often saves money, so it’s best to start as soon as possible.
Retainers: The Final Step
After correcting an overbite, retainers help to maintain the results. They prevent teeth from shifting back. Lenius Orthodontics offers:
- Fixed Retainers: Bonded retainers provide stability and long-term support.
- Removable Retainers: These are worn nightly and are easy to clean and maintain.
Your orthodontist will share care tips for retainers and oral health routines to keep your smile transformation lasting a lifetime.
Start Your Smile Journey at Lenius Orthodontics
At Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS, we provide expert orthodontic care for patients of all ages. Your first step involves:
- A full orthodontic evaluation
- Bite analysis and x-rays
- A detailed treatment plan with a treatment timeline and guidelines
Flexible scheduling makes it easy to start your orthodontic care. Call Lenius Orthodontics or visit the website today to book a consultation and begin your journey to healthier teeth alignment.
About The Authors
Dr. Granit Morina – Orthodontist in Leominster and Gardner, MA
Dr. Jason Berk – Orthodontist in New York City, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common way to fix an overbite?
The most common way to fix an overbite is usually through orthodontic treatment, specifically braces. These trusty little helpers work wonders by gradually shifting your teeth into the right position over time. It’s like giving your smile a gentle nudge in the right direction! Depending on the severity of your overbite, your orthodontist might also recommend using elastic bands or other appliances to help things along.
How much does it cost to correct an overbite?
The cost of correcting an overbite can vary quite a bit, depending on your specific situation. On average, you might be looking at anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000 for traditional braces or clear aligners. If you need more extensive treatment, like jaw surgery, the price could go up to $20,000 or more.
What is the best age to fix an overbite?
When it comes to fixing an overbite, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best age can vary depending on the individual, but generally, it’s great to start treatment during the pre-teen or early teenage years. This is because the jaw and teeth are still developing, making them more responsive to orthodontic treatment. That said, it’s never too late to address an overbite! Many adults successfully correct their overbites too.