How to Fix an Overbite: Treatment Options Explained
How to Fix an Overbite: Treatment Options Explained
An overbite is one of the most common orthodontic issues and one of the most
treatable. If you have noticed that your upper teeth sit noticeably in front
of your lower teeth when you bite down, you may have an overbite. The good news
is that modern orthodontic treatments can make correcting an overbite more
comfortable, effective and discreet than ever.
At
Westside Orthodontics
,
our team specializes in diagnosing and treating different types of bite
problems. We create personalized treatment plans to help children, teenagers
and adults achieve healthier, more balanced and confident smiles.
by tooth position, jaw development or a combination of both. Understanding the
cause helps the orthodontist recommend the most appropriate treatment.
What Is an Overbite?
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth
more than they should. A small amount of overlap can be normal. However, when
the overlap is excessive, it may affect the appearance, comfort and function
of your smile.
An untreated or severe overbite may contribute to:
- Jaw pain or temporomandibular joint discomfort
- Uneven or premature wear on the teeth
- Difficulty biting or chewing certain foods
- Speech-related challenges
- Gum irritation or recession
- Concerns about smile appearance or facial balance
Overbites may be influenced by genetics, jaw growth, thumb-sucking, tongue
thrusting or prolonged pacifier use during childhood. Regardless of the cause,
an orthodontist can evaluate your bite and create a customized plan to correct
the problem effectively.
How Orthodontists Fix an Overbite
There is no single treatment that is appropriate for every overbite. The best
option depends on the patient’s age, tooth alignment, jaw relationship and the
severity of the bite problem. Your orthodontist will examine your teeth and
jaws before recommending treatment.
1. Traditional or Ceramic Braces
Traditional braces are one of the most reliable options for correcting an
overbite. Brackets are attached to the teeth and connected with an
orthodontic wire. The braces apply controlled pressure to gradually move
the teeth and improve how the upper and lower arches fit together.
Ceramic braces work in a similar way but use tooth-coloured or clear
materials to create a less noticeable appearance. Braces may also be used
with elastics or other appliances when jaw-position changes are required.
Typical treatment time: Approximately 18 to 24 months,
depending on the complexity of the case
2. Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, including Invisalign and similar systems, can correct many
mild to moderate overbites. Treatment uses a planned series of transparent,
removable trays that gradually move the teeth into better positions.
Clear aligners are popular among teenagers and adults who prefer a more
discreet orthodontic option. Because they are removable, patients can take
them out when eating, brushing and flossing. However, the trays must be worn
for the recommended number of hours each day to achieve predictable results.
Primary benefit: Nearly invisible and removable for meals
and oral hygiene
lower front teeth.
3. Orthodontic Elastics
Elastics, also called orthodontic rubber bands, are commonly used with
braces or clear aligners. They connect selected upper and lower teeth and
create gentle pressure that helps improve the relationship between the
jaws.
Consistent wear is essential. Patients who follow their orthodontist’s
instructions closely are more likely to keep treatment progressing on
schedule.
How they work: Small elastics connect the upper and lower
teeth to guide bite correction
4. Orthodontic Appliances
For growing children and teenagers, specialized orthodontic appliances may
help guide jaw growth and tooth eruption. Bite plates, expanders and
functional appliances can sometimes correct developing bite concerns
before they become more complicated.
The
American Association of Orthodontists
recommends that children receive an initial orthodontic evaluation by
approximately age seven. Early evaluation does not always mean immediate
treatment, but it allows an orthodontist to monitor development and choose
the most effective time to intervene.
Potential benefit: Early guidance of jaw development and
tooth positioning
5. Jaw Surgery for Severe Cases
In rare situations, an overbite may be caused primarily by significant
skeletal differences rather than tooth position. For an adult with a severe
jaw discrepancy, orthognathic surgery may be recommended in combination
with orthodontic treatment.
Surgical treatment repositions the jaw to improve function, facial balance
and bite alignment. This option is generally reserved for cases that cannot
be fully corrected with braces or aligners alone.
Treatment approach: Coordinated orthodontic treatment and
jaw surgery
Why Is It Important to Treat an Overbite?
An overbite is more than a cosmetic concern. When the teeth and jaws do not fit
together properly, certain teeth may experience excessive pressure. Over time,
this can contribute to enamel wear, damaged teeth, jaw discomfort and gum
problems.
Correcting an overbite may improve chewing, tooth protection, jaw comfort and
smile confidence. Treatment can also make it easier to clean crowded or poorly
positioned teeth, supporting better long-term oral health.
General information about orthodontic treatment and bite correction is also
available from the
Canadian Dental Association
.
Can Adults Fix an Overbite?
Yes. Orthodontic treatment is not limited to children and teenagers. Healthy
teeth can be moved at almost any age. Many adults choose braces or clear
aligners to correct an overbite that was not treated earlier or to address bite
changes that developed over time.
Adult treatment may require a different approach because jaw growth is
complete. However, many adult overbites can still be improved successfully
through orthodontic treatment.
Book an Orthodontic Consultation
The best way to determine how to fix your overbite is to schedule a professional
orthodontic consultation. At Westside Orthodontics, our team will examine your
teeth, assess your bite and explain the treatment options that are most
appropriate for your needs.
Visit our
orthodontic website
to learn more about our services and approach to personalized orthodontic care.
Take the First Step Toward a Healthier Bite
Schedule a consultation with Westside Orthodontics to learn which overbite
treatment option may help you achieve a healthier, more comfortable and
confident smile.
