An overbite describes a dental flaw where your upper front teeth significantly overlap your lower front teeth when your jaws are closed. This common dental issue can affect both the aesthetics of your smile and your oral health.
For adults and children with an overbite, visiting an orthodontist is the best place to start in finding an effective solution. Walied Touni, DDS, MSD, and our team at Touni Orthodontics in Sunnyvale, California, are devoted to excellence in orthodontic care.
Fortunately, there are various ways to treat an overbite, depending on its severity and the patient’s age. Read on to learn some of the most effective ways to address this common dental issue.
Traditional braces are one of the most common and effective ways to correct an overbite. Braces work by applying constant pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into their proper positions. Over time, this can help correct your overbite and align your teeth and jaws correctly.
In some cases, removable appliances like headgear or retainers may be used along with braces to further address overbites. The duration of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the severity of your overbite, but it typically ranges from several months to a few years.
Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Clear aligners are a more discreet alternative to traditional braces for correcting overbites. They use a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move your teeth into the desired position. Clear aligners are often preferred by adults and teenagers. However, it's important to note that they may not be suitable for all cases of overbites, especially severe ones.
For individuals with severe overbites that can’t be fully corrected through orthodontic treatment alone, orthognathic surgery may be recommended.
This surgical procedure involves repositioning your upper or lower jaw to improve the alignment of your teeth and correct your overbite. While it may sound intimidating, orthognathic surgery can be a highly effective solution for significant overbite issues.
Functional appliances are often used to correct overbites in children. These devices work by guiding the growth and development of their jaws to achieve a better bite alignment. Examples of functional appliances include twin-block appliances and Herbst appliances.
Early intervention with functional appliances can help prevent more severe overbite problems in the future.
In some cases, lifestyle factors and habits may contribute to or worsen an overbite. For instance, habits like thumb-sucking or prolonged use of pacifiers in childhood can affect the development of their teeth and jaws. Encouraging children to break these habits early on can help prevent or reduce overbite issues.
You’re in highly capable hands when you choose Touni Orthodontics for your overbite correction. Rest assured that Dr. Touni and our team will recommend the most appropriate treatment approach following a thorough evaluation.
To get started, schedule a consultation with Dr. Touni by calling our office today or booking online any time.
