If you have upper teeth that stick out way more than your lower teeth, this means you have an overbite. So, “Do you need braces if you have an overbite?” Small overbites might not need treatment. However, serious overbites can lead to problems like jaw pain, worn-down enamel, cavities, gum disease, speech issues, and other dental concerns. Therefore, you need braces.
Mild Overbite
A mild overbite is when the upper teeth cover about 20-40% of the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. This slight overlap doesn’t cause functional issues. From the side, the upper jaw may seem a little forward. However, the difference is small and rarely affects appearance.
Severe Overbite
In a severe overbite, the overlapping difference of the upper teeth over the jaw teeth is large. This often creates the look of “buck teeth.” The side profile of people with severe overbite may have an upper jaw that sticks out more than the lower jaw. This causes an unbalanced facial profile and affects appearance. A severe overbite also triggers problems with chewing, speaking, and keeping teeth clean.
Do Braces Fix Overbite?
This query circles back to the question, “Do you need braces if you have an overbite?” Yes, because braces can fix an overbite. They are a great way to fix overbites. An orthodontist will take X-rays to see what kind of overbite you have. Once they know the best treatment, they will put on the braces. Braces use brackets attached to the teeth, and a wire connects them to small rubber bands. They are a proven and comfortable way to correct an overbite.
How Do Orthodontists Fix an Overbite with Braces?
There are different treatment options for correcting an overbite. This depends on your specific needs and how severe the overbite is. Your orthodontist can pair braces with orthodontic devices to achieve the desired results. This pairing includes:
- Braces with Rubber Bands: Rubber bands are used with braces to add extra force that helps fix bite problems. They align the upper and lower jaw to fix overbites and underbites.
- Braces with a Herbst Appliance: The Herbst appliance is a fixed device that moves the lower jaw forward. This helps in correcting overbites and aligning the teeth and jaws as they grow.
- Braces with Forsus Springs: Forsus springs are fixed devices that continuously push the upper teeth back and the lower teeth forward. This corrects severe overbites without needing the patient to do anything.
- Braces with Tooth Extractions: Sometimes, teeth need removal when there is too much crowding or big bite problems. This creates space for the remaining teeth to move into the right position.
- Braces with Jaw Surgery: Jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, fixes major jaw issues. It repositions the jaws to improve both function and appearance. Dental professionals often combine it with braces for the best results.
How Long Do You Need Braces If You Have an Overbite?
Every person’s overbite is different, so there isn’t a set time for how long braces treatment will take. In general, it can last from six months to two years. Severe overbites often take longer to fix, especially if there are other issues like crowded teeth.
Wrapping Up
Sometimes, an overbite is too apparent to spot. So, if you think you have one, you might wonder, “Do you need braces if you have an overbite?” Consulting a dental professional can help you diagnose your issue and receive the right treatment.
Visit Dr. Ayesha Muzaffar at iCare4Smiles. Our doctor is certified in nitrous oxide sedation, Invisalign, and clear aligner therapy. Call us at (732) 800-9524 for an appointment.