Are you self-conscious about your smile? Do you feel that your teeth don’t fit together quite right? Malocclusion can lead to several oral health concerns, including tooth decay, gum disease, and erosion, among many other things. If you are considering overbite correction in Sacramento, CA, Dr. David Markham can help you determine a treatment option that will work effectively for you. Today, we will explore what causes an overbite as well as different methods used to treat the condition.

Overjet vs Overbite: What is the Difference?

Overjet and overbite are two terms that are commonly confused. Before we discuss ways to treat an overbite, we will discuss the differences between these two types of malocclusion. Simply stated, an overbite has to do with the depth of the bite, and an overjet has to do with the protrusion of the teeth. Did you know that even patients with a typical bite have a slight overbite? In fact, it is normal for the upper teeth to overlap the lower teeth by about one to two millimeters. However, when the teeth overlap more than that, the lower teeth can actually touch the roof of the mouth. This is referred to as a deep vertical overbite. In contrast, an overjet is present when the upper front teeth “stick out” or protrude. Many patients prefer this condition as “buck teeth”. It is possible to have one or both conditions. In either case, malocclusion of any type can impede your oral health as well as compromise your confidence.

What Causes an Overbite?

There are a few different factors that can contribute to an overbite. For example, genetics, bruxism (teeth grinding), and TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder) can all potentially increase the risk for developing an overbite. More often than not, childhood habits such as prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use can exacerbate the problem.

If left untreated, an overbite can result in more serious dental complications, such as jaw pain, chronic headaches, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, sleep apnea, and more. Therefore, it is important to have this issue addressed by an orthodontist to prevent the condition from worsening over time.

What are My Treatment Options?

At Markham Orthodontics, we offer several treatment options. The appropriate solution for you will depend on your particular situation. Overbites can successfully be addressed with:

• Traditional metal braces: It’s hard to compete with this tried and true orthodontic correction option. Traditional metal braces can address several different kinds of malocclusion and offer predictable treatment. Today’s braces are far more comfortable and sleeker than their older counterparts.
• Ceramic Braces: Quite similar to metal braces, the primary difference with the ceramic option is that the braces are less noticeable. The brackets are crafted from ceramic and the wires are frosted so they are less visible.
• Invisalign®: In some cases, Invisalign can be used to correct an overbite. However, if your case is more complex, traditional orthodontics may be recommended.
• Headgear: When more anchorage is required, headgear can be used to correct an overbite. In most cases, headgear is worn by children. However, in some instances, adults can benefit as well.
• Elastics: Who would have known that tiny rubber bands can make a big difference? Elastics are an excellent and effective way to correct the way your teeth fit together.

Most patients will not require all of these treatments for overbite correction. These are simply some of the methods used to achieve a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile. During an initial consultation with Dr. Markham, he can help you determine which treatment options will work for you.

Learn More about Overbite Correction

If you think you may require overbite correction in Sacramento, CA, schedule a consultation at our practice. You can call us at (916) 924-8970 or contact us online anytime.