Overbite in Overland Park: Causes, Consequences and Treatment Strategies

Smiling together near a tree, a man show overbite with a teenage boy and young girl pose outside at Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS.
Smiling woman with long brown hair and Overbite in a white t-shirt points left; Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS.

An overbite occurs when the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth. While a small overlap is normal, a large overbite can lead to dental health problems if left untreated. This guide provides an overview of the causes, symptoms, and treatment options to help you better manage your dental health.

Showing misaligned, crowded teeth and a noticeable overbite, treated by Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS.

Defining Overbite vs Overjet: Common Dental Misalignments

It’s essential to know the distinction between an overbite and an overjet. An overbite refers to how much the top front teeth vertically overlap the lower front teeth, whereas an overjet pertains to how far the upper front teeth stick out horizontally beyond the lower front teeth. Knowing these differences helps in choosing the appropriate treatment.

Causes of Severe Overjet and Overbite

Severe overjet and overbite can arise from various factors, including:

Skeletal irregularities in the jaw structure
Misaligned teeth
Genetic predisposition
Childhood habits like thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use

Understanding the underlying causes is essential for developing an effective treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

A smiling woman with light hair and metal braces for fix overbite, wearing a light blue top at Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS.
Smiling person with braces correcting an overbite at Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS, chin on hand, light features.

Signs and Symptoms of an Overbite

Early detection of an overbite is essential to prevent potential complications and achieve successful treatment results. Some key signs to watch for include:

Upper teeth significantly overlapping the lower teeth
Excessive visibility of the upper teeth compared to the lower teeth
Difficulty in closing the mouth properly
Potential a facial imbalance or jaw discomfort

If you notice any of these signs, it’s advisable to seek professional evaluation from an orthodontist.

Potential Health Issues
from Untreated Overbite

Ignoring an overbite can lead to significant oral health challenges and impact overall well-being. Some potential issues that may develop include:

Jaw pain and discomfort

TMJ disorders

Tooth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

Difficulty maintaining oral hygiene

Risk of tooth decay and gum disease

Speech difficulties

Negative impact on self-confidence

Smiling young woman with wavy hair and red nails shows metal braces for fix overbite at Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS.

Diagnosis and Assessment of Overbite Severity

At Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, Dr. Jeffrey Lenius, a highly experienced orthodontist, performs detailed evaluations during routine dental visits. He thoroughly assesses your teeth alignment and determines the severity of any overbite. Early detection and accurate assessments play a crucial role in developing a customized treatment plan designed to meet your specific needs.

At Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS, a masked dental professional examines a reclining patient overbite with sunglasses.

Treatment Methods to Fix an Overbite

There are various effective ways to treat overbites depending on their severity. Options available at Lenius Orthodontics include:

Orthodontic treatments using Invisalign, clear aligners, metal braces, and ceramic braces to realign teeth and adjust your bite properly.
In severe cases, surgical procedures may be recommended to correct irregularities in the alignment of the jaw.
After treatment, orthodontic appliances like retainers maintain the new alignment to prevent teeth from shifting back.

Our team will guide you through every step and recommend the most suitable options for your comfort and lifestyle.

Braces and Invisalign Clear Aligners

Braces are an effective solution for straightening crooked teeth and fixing overbites. In more severe cases, additional tools such as rubber bands, bite pads, or even tooth extractions may be utilized alongside braces to enhance results. For patients looking for a less conspicuous alternative, options like clear braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign clear aligners are excellent choices for treating mild to moderate overbites.

Surgical Intervention

When overbites are caused by structural issues in the jaw, surgical intervention may be required. This procedure involves correcting the jaw’s alignment in conjunction with orthodontic treatment to deliver optimal results. Post-surgery, patients typically need some recovery time away from work or school to allow for healing and adjustment.

Prevention and Early Intervention Strategies

Early action is essential for avoiding severe overbites and overjets. The American Association of Orthodontists advises that children see an orthodontist by age 7 to detect and treat any emerging problems early. Moreover, correcting childhood habits such as thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting can significantly help in preventing these conditions.

Smiling with braces fix Overbite from Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS, a person with long curly hair winks and rests their chin on their hands.
Smiling with a charming overbite, a woman poses outdoors in white lace near Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, KS.

The Importance of Choosing an Experienced Orthodontist

Choosing a skilled and experienced orthodontist is essential for achieving optimal results in addressing overbites and overjets. At Lenius Orthodontics in Overland Park, Dr. Jeffrey Lenius and his dedicated team excel in crafting personalized treatment plans designed to straighten teeth, enhance bite functionality, and improve facial balance. With their expertise and advanced techniques, they deliver effective solutions that ensure lasting outcomes.

FAQ

Is it OK to have an overbite?

A small overbite is normal and may not require treatment, as some overlap between the upper and lower teeth is natural. However, a severe overbite, where the lower teeth are extensively covered or hidden, can lead to dental health issues. In such cases, consulting an orthodontist for a thorough evaluation and a customized treatment plan is highly recommended.

What causes an overbite?

Overbites can result from various factors, including genetics, childhood habits like thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use, certain speech-related issues, or the presence of extra teeth. These factors can affect jaw development and teeth alignment, contributing to the formation of an overbite.

How can an overbite be corrected?

The correction method for an overbite depends on its severity. Orthodontic solutions such as braces or clear aligners, often combined with tools like rubber bands and bite pads, can gently realign the teeth and correct the bite over time. In more serious cases, surgical intervention may be required to reposition the jaw and achieve the best possible outcome.