Have you noticed a larger overlap of your top teeth? Is there a protruding gap? If so, you may want to consider orthodontic treatment to correct an overbite. An overbite is identified by the extent to which your upper teeth protrude and overlap your lower teeth. Ideally, your upper teeth should overlap the lower ones by 1-2 mm. But if the gap is 4 to 10 mm, it is considered a malocclusion that requires treatment.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
Overbites are a hereditary problem that occurs naturally as your teeth erupt. However, some habits such as thumb sucking and tongue thrusting can contribute to the malocclusion because the thumb pushes the front upper teeth and bone forward. Bad bites can be corrected by a dental specialist known as an orthodontist.
Some of the likely treatments for an overbite include:
- Invisalign clear aligners – to slowly and discreetly move the teeth and jaw to their correct position
- Braces – to slowly move the teeth and jaw to the correct position
- Teeth removal for children and tweens to create room for the adult teeth to grow in straight
- Oral Surgery – to correct severe jaw problems in adults
Although malocclusion can be corrected at any age, it is recommended that bad bite problems be corrected as early as possible to reduce the risk of severe physical implications of having an untreated overbite. Children should visit an orthodontist by the age of 7 years for early intervention.
Schedule Your Consultation
To find out if orthodontic treatment is right for you, contact your orthodontist in Bellflower, CA to schedule your consultation today.