How to Fix an Overbite

Posted on 5/26/2015 by Robert Leale

Throughout life there are going to be many problems that require you to consult a professional. Many of these problems can be solved. However, some of them if not caught in time can start to affect the way you live everyday life. An overbite is one of those problems that could cause a significant change in your daily life. Fixing an overbite can be done with several trips to the dentist and working side by side to help correct what it is that needs fixing to give you a beautiful, bright smile.

What is an Overbite?

An overbite is where your teeth may protrude out of their intended position and create an awkward looking bite pattern. This can lead to low self-esteem or being self-conscious about your appearance. There are two different types of overbites, horizontal and vertical. When the top teeth overlap the bottom it is considered to be a vertical overbite. The horizontal overbite is also called an overjet. When this happens, the top teeth are protruding beyond the bottom. A patient can have aspects pertaining to both of the types of overbites, but are normally diagnosed with having either a vertical or horizontal overbite.

You can inherit an overbite, but it can also be caused by having a jaw that is malformed. If the jaws have grown unevenly it can cause one set of teeth to be further out than the other. Overbites can also be caused from nail biting or chewing on objects such as pencils. People who were known to suck on their thumb when they were little are at higher risk of developing an overbite than those who did not suck their thumb. An overbite can also happen when children are not taken off the bottle or pacifier within the recommended time.

Consult Your Dentist or an Orthodontist

Your dentist can help figure out the correct procedure needed to fix your overbite. It is best to consult with your dentist or an orthodontist that can give you the correct information on what their facility fixes and how the procedures are done. The dentist has convenient tools that can help in fixing your overbite.

•	Aligners: Some top named aligners, such as Invisalign, are used to fit over the teeth and to help move them slowly into a more desirable place. Many people believe that the taste of food and beverages changes when these aligners are in. This may be true, but the entire time while you are eating and drinking, your teeth are shaping up and your appearance is being altered.
•	Braces: There are two types of braces that you can have inserted into your mouth to help correct the positioning of your teeth. The first time is the outside set, which can be seen by anyone who looks at the person. Hidden, or lingual braces, are not visible for others looking at your smile. They are set behind the teeth and help to slowly move the teeth into the best possible position for realignment.
•	Clear Braces: Some people opt into getting the clear braces because not only do they serve the purpose of correcting what is wrong in how the teeth are positioned, but it also provides a clear view of the teeth without metal being seen. The side teeth will have regular outer braces while the front of the teeth, the ones seen regularly, have an invisible bar across them that is unlikely to show to those standing in front of you.

An overbite can be fixed. If you or a loved one suffers from an overbite, or any other dental problems, contact our office at (509) 590-1763. We are ready to help you with all of your dental needs.

Location

Northview Family Dental
1121 E. Westview Ct.
Spokane, WA 99218-1319

Hours

M, W, TH: 7am-6pm
T, F: 7am-4pm

Phone

(509) 590-1763

Email

appointments@northviewsmiles.com

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Robert Leale DDS, 1121 E. Westview Ct. Spokane, WA 99218 \ (509) 590-1763 \ northviewfamilydental.com \ 9/14/2024 \ Associated Words: dentist Spokane WA \