When you close your mouth, your teeth fit together to help you chew efficiently and speak clearly. Most healthy smiles have a small overbite — which means your upper front teeth slightly overlap your lower front teeth — but a more severe overbite could mean problems for your oral health.
And if you’re worried about your overbite, we’re here to help. Walied Touni, DDS, MSD, and our team at Touni Orthodontics specialize in straightening teeth and fixing bite problems in Sunnyvale, California.
Understanding the signs of an overbite and knowing when to seek orthodontic treatment is the first step to maintaining optimal dental health.
An overbite happens when your upper teeth extend over your lower teeth. Most people have a slight overbite, which is completely normal. However, when the overlap becomes excessive, it can lead to a variety of dental and health issues.
Severe overbites can affect the appearance of your smile, but the real concern lies in the potential health complications they can cause. A few signs that you might have an overbite problem are:
A significant overbite can make it challenging to bite into foods and chew properly. This can be uncomfortable and could lead to digestive issues because you can’t fully chew your food before swallowing.
Severe overbites can strain your jaw muscles and joints, leading to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Symptoms include jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty opening or closing your mouth.
An overbite can interfere with normal speech patterns, causing a lisp or other speech difficulties. This can affect communication and self-esteem, especially in children.
When your upper teeth overlap excessively, they can wear down your lower teeth over time. This can lead to enamel erosion, increased tooth sensitivity, and even tooth fractures. Overbites can also create pockets where food particles and bacteria accumulate, increasing your risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
If you or your child are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it may be time to consider overbite treatment. As a board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Touni specializes in diagnosing and treating dental issues related to the alignment of your teeth and jaws.
He develops customized orthodontic treatments for children, teens, and adults to fix bites and straighten teeth. Depending on your needs, he might recommend traditional braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic appliances.
Traditional braces are one of the most effective methods for correcting overbites. They gradually shift your teeth into their proper positions using brackets and wires. Clear aligners are an increasingly popular alternative, and they are virtually invisible. In some cases, we may use other appliances, like rubber bands or palatal expanders to correct your bite.
Correcting a severe overbite isn’t just about improving the appearance of your smile — it’s about preventing long-term dental and health issues.
Orthodontic treatment can make a significant difference, and we’re ready to help you find the best treatment options for your needs. Book a consultation at Touni Orthodontics today by calling our office or booking online.
