An overbite is a common condition where the upper jaw is incorrectly aligned with the lower jaw. This causes the upper front teeth to overlap the lower front teeth. Discover more information about overbites and how getting braces from Hess Orthodontics can help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Schedule an appointment today!
If you have an overbite, do you need braces?
Braces don’t just improve your appearance — they also improve your overall dental health! While minor overbites may not require treatment, severe overbites can cause jaw pain, enamel wear, tooth decay, gum disease, speech interference, and other dental problems. People with significant overbites should get orthodontic treatment as soon as possible to prevent these issues.
How do braces fix an overbite?
Braces are an effective method for correcting overbites. During your complimentary consultation, we take X-rays to determine what type of overbite you have. After we ascertain what braces treatment will be most effective going forward, we will install them. Braces work with a system of brackets that adhere to the teeth and are connected to an archwire with small elastic bands. They are a tried and tested way to correct an overbite comfortably and efficiently.
Can you fix an overbite without braces?
A minor or moderate overbite can also be corrected with Invisalign®, an alternative treatment that corrects misalignments over time using a series of custom-made clear aligners that are switched out every week. Depending on the severity of the overbite, you may need elastic bands to bring your teeth and jaw into the right alignment. These attach to tiny buttons on the aligners, near the upper teeth and the lower molars.
Sometimes, if an overbite is very severe, your orthodontic treatment may require tooth or jaw surgery. An overbite may be caused by the jaw not being large enough to contain all of the teeth, leading to overcrowding as well as jaw misalignment. In this situation, teeth may need to be removed to create space for all remaining teeth to shift into the proper position. It is common for all of these surgical methods to be followed up with braces.
Hess Orthodontics can help you determine the best treatment for your overbite. Schedule a consultation today!
How long do braces last for an overbite?
Since every person’s condition is unique, there is no hard and fast rule for how long braces treatment will be for an overbite. Usually, treatment can last anywhere between six months and two years. Severe overbite cases often require more time as they are commonly combined with other dental problems like overcrowding. If your orthodontist prescribes a retainer following braces treatment, it is important to wear it diligently to keep your teeth from shifting out of place. Taking good care of your braces during your treatment helps you achieve beautiful and long-lasting results!
Schedule an initial consultation to see if braces are right for you
If you think you have an overbite, don’t wait to start your journey to a better smile! Make an appointment for a complimentary consultation at any one of our convenient locations.
Hess Orthodontics proudly serves Riverview, Lithia, Apollo Beach, Parrish, Sarasota, Winter Haven and surrounding communities. Hess Orthodontics over 15 years of experience beautifying smiles across the Greater Tampa area. Glow up your smile at Hess Orthodontics today!