How to Fix Overbite in Overland Park, KS

by | Jul 31, 2025 | Smiles

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:

  1. Better Jaw Growth Management: Early treatment during jaw development makes overbite correction easier and more effective.
  2. Improved Speech and Function: Severe overbites may interfere with speech or chewing.
  3. Confidence Boost: An overbite may alter the way your smile looks, affecting self-esteem.
  4. 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.

Adult Orthodontics

by | Feb 23, 2023 | Science, Smiles

Think you're too old for orthodontics?

Think Again!

Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for children and teenagers. Recent trends have shown a tremendous increase in adult orthodontic patients. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists states that one in four patients is over the age of 21. Thinking about orthodontic treatment as an adult?  Let’s explore things a little bit deeper.

WHY DO ADULTS CONSIDER ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT

Adult patients seek treatment for a variety of reasons. Most of my adult patients are self-referred because they don’t like something with their smile. Other times they are referred by their dentist because they have teeth that are hard to clean, a bite that is causing tooth wear, or require teeth moved in conjunction with another type of dental procedure (such as dental implants). While many younger patients seek treatment primarily for cosmetic or social reasons, adult patients often seek treatment to improve function, maintain optimal oral health, and increase the longevity of their teeth. Whatever the reason for considering orthodontics, it’s never too late to love your smile.

Is Orthodontic Treatment the Same for Adults and Younger Patients?

Adult patients share a majority of the same treatment objectives as younger patients do—specifically, correcting crowded and spacing, improving an “overbite”, or fixing crossbites. Because the tissues involved in tooth movement are the same in both adults and children, the majority of orthodontic problems in adults can be improved with treatment. However, a major difference exists between these patient groups–the degree and magnitude of facial and jaw growth. Adult patients are no longer growing, which does limit how much some orthodontic conditions can be corrected. Growth is beneficial in correcting many orthodontic conditions, specifically reducing overbites, expanding the jaws to relieve crowding, and improving deep bites. Because adults are not growing, extractions and surgery are more common if full orthodontic correction is to be achieved. Since some adults don’t want to have teeth removed or jaw surgery, many are willing to accept a degree of compromise not often necessary in younger patients. Adults also have denser bone tissue and a slower metabolism than children, resulting in slower tooth movement and longer treatment times. Lastly, adults often present with a more extensive dental history (worn, missing, and/or compromised teeth), all of which can limit treatment options. 

While treatment objectives and options may be more limited in adult patients, I have found that my adult patients are some of the most educated, motivated, compliant, and appreciative patients in my practice. Since they are pursuing treatment themselves (unlike teenagers who are often compelled by their parents), adult patients usually have better oral hygiene and are more involved with their treatment decisions, all of which result in excellent patient compliance. Because of this, they are normally excellent candidates for cosmetic treatment options such as Invisalign clear aligners.

Think you’re too old for orthodontics? I often hear from adults who fear their window for a better smile has passed, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Today’s orthodontic treatment options are more “adult-friendly” than ever before, with comfortable, esthetic, and customized options available to meet the needs of adult patients and their busy lifestyles. While your treatment may be more complicated and take longer, improved appearance, better function, and improved confidence are achievable at any age!
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Dr. Jeff had braces as an adult

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Dr. Kyle Munn's Patient

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Beautiful Smile!

Invisalign. Is it for you?

by | Feb 17, 2023 | Invisalign, Smiles

Invisalign. Is it for you?

Have you been told you're not a candidate for invisible liners? Ask Dr. Jeff.

First things first – what is Invisalign? Chances are you’ve heard about Invisalign from a friend or saw something about it on social media. Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, customized aligners to straighten your teeth and align your bite. Invisalign aligners are removable so you can easily brush and floss, enjoy all your favorite foods, stay active with the activities you love, and continue to smile with your life uninterrupted.

How Invisalign Works

Invisalign uses the latest 3D computer imaging technology to create a virtual model of your mouth. In simpler terms, we use a really cool machine to take pictures of your mouth and create a digital version of your bite. Your doctor then “virtually straightens your teeth” on the computer and a series of clear aligners are made to move your teeth little by little to their final position. Each aligner is worn for about a week before progressing to the next aligner until treatment is finished.

Does It Matter Where I

Get Invisalign? Yes!

While Invisalign is the name brand behind the process, the most important factor is the skill and expertise of the doctor overseeing your treatment. What this means is that Invisalign treatment and the overall final results are drastically different from provider to provider—not everyone produces the same result. For example, how your teeth are actually positioned is determined by your provider—not by Invisalign. How your teeth are designed to actually move in the aligners is also determined by your provider—not by Invisalign. And most importantly, whether or not you are actually an “Invisalign candidate” is determined by each provider—not by Invisalign.

Think about going on a vacation. When you start to plan a vacation, arguably the most important factor is where you actually want to go –what is the final destination. With Invisalign treatment, a patient starts at the same starting point regardless of the provider, but that’s where the similarities end. Once the bite is digitized and uploaded to the computer, the differences between providers start to take over. Each provider will use his or her skill and knowledge of dental occlusion (how the teeth and jaws fit together) to create a final “destination” for your teeth. This “final tooth positioning” varies greatly from provider to provider depending on their experience and knowledge of orthodontics and facial esthetics. With Invisalign, each provider will take to you a different smile “destination” based on how they digitally position your teeth and bite.

Now that the final destination/position of your teeth is determined by your provider, we now need to decide how the teeth will actually move to this position. 

This is where the knowledge of biomechanics and moving teeth with clear aligners is critical. Teeth move when a force is applied to them. The size and direction of these forces are created and determined by your provider and built into each aligner. Incorrect forces will result in non-ideal tooth movements and less-than-ideal results. Your provider not only designs how your teeth are to be positioned and moved, they must also anticipate how your teeth and jaws will respond during the course of treatment and make the necessary adjustments.
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Invisalign Treatment

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Dr. Jeff's Patient

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Beautiful Smile!

Lastly, whether or not you are actually an “Invisalign candidate” is determined by each provider—not by Invisalign. Invisalign expertise is gained through experience and a prolonged dedication and commitment to learning and mastering the biomechanics of moving teeth with clear aligners. Each Invisalign provider possesses a different skillset, knowledge, expertise, and overall ability to treat with Invisalign. While many dentists and orthodontists may offer Invisalign services, they all do so in different capacities and each provider produces different results. Think about getting a painting of yourself – every painter uses the same tools (brush, paint, and canvas) to paint the picture, but the skill and experience of the painter ultimately determines the end result. 

Dr. Jeff Lenius is an Elite Invisalign provider – among the top 5% of orthodontists in the United States who have treated the highest number of patients using Invisalign.

Leonardo Di Vinci would paint a much better portrait than Greg from poker club (and also charge significantly more for it). Same paint…Different skill and experience… Dramatically different results. It is the same with Invisalign – all Invisalign providers use the same Invisalign tool, but the treatment quality and outcome are ultimately determined by the knowledge and experience of the provider – how they use the tools. Because of this, many orthodontists and dentists avoid recommending Invisalign as an option, or cut corners on esthetic and functional goals to make Invisalign less complicated for them to use.

As an Elite Invisalign provider, Dr. Jeff Lenius is among the top 5% of orthodontists in the United States who have treated the highest number of patients. Because of his experience, he is able to treat even the most complex orthodontic cases, having personally treated over 800 patients with Invisalign. You’ve come to the right place!
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Invisalign Treatment

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Dr. Jeff's Patient

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Beautiful Smile!

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Kansas City Here We Come!

by | Nov 20, 2022 | New location, Smiles

Kansas City Here We Come!

The Lenius family moved to Kansas City in 2019. They were excited to make their home in Overland Park. With the many parks, trails, and activities, plus the outstanding schools, it’s the perfect place to raise a family.

As an orthodontst, trained at the University of Iowa Dental School and the school in Colorado for residency, Jeff gained valuable experience in St. Louis working for one of the most successful Orthodontic practice groups in the U.S.  When the family moved to Kansas City, Jeff put his dream of opening his own practice on hold while Melanie started her new position at University of Kansas Medical Center and the family settled in.

EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENT!

 

Lenius Orthodontics

Newly Open in Overland Park!

8764 W151st Street  •   Overland Park, Kansas

“We’re excited about the new practice, and the chance to serve our friends and neighbors in the community.”

Dr. Jeff Lenius

When I grew up our family was very engaged in our local community and I think that’s one of the most attractive things about Overland Park. It is a large metro, but people still say hello when they see you in the grocery store or at a ballgame. I like that. I want my patients to see me out in the community and recognize that this is my home, too.

Like everything, Orthodontics has changed immensly since I finished residency. Today, there are the more traditional options including metal braces and invisable liners, and both have really improved in technology. The challenge is still to create beautiful smiles! I feel lucky to have experienced working with thousands of patients. I’ve improved my skills and formed some personal thoughts about the art and science of Orthodontics.

Your smile is so important. Some people want to gain an overall change and others want to fix that one crooked tooth that has bothered them when they look in the mirror. It’s my job to understand their goals and desires and show them how we’ll get there.

One of my favorite things about Orthodontics is that it is so fun to see the results. I admit, I have been accused of being a bit of a perfectionist, but while it’s many patients for me – it’s your one smile. I have to give each one my best!

 

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beautiful smiles

The art and science of orthodontics can improve your dental health and your beautiful smile!

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expertise

Dr. Jeff brings more than 10 years of experience in Orthodontics to our new practice in Overland Park.

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Home

First visit or a regular treatment, this beautiful new space helps patients and parents feel right at home.

Space designed to perform

The Lenius family is super busy at work and at play, just like their neighbors and friends, and all of us! This is why it was so important to create a space for Lenius Orthodontics with the latest state-of-the-art equipment and amenities that feel comfortable and easy.

Fresh. Clean. New. Everything is set up to allow patients to relax and staff to work efficiently and comfortably.

We can’t wait for you to see it!