An overbite is one of the most common dental issues people face, yet it’s often misunderstood. Whether you’re a parent noticing changes in your child’s smile, or an adult curious about your own bite, understanding overbite can be important when considering taking steps toward a healthier, more confident smile.
In this article, we’ll explore what an overbite is, what causes it, how it’s treated, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about overbite in Zionsville, IN.
What is an Overbite?
An overbite is a common condition where your upper front teeth overlap with your lower front teeth. In other words, if you close your mouth and see that your top teeth cover up a lot of your bottom teeth, you have what’s called an overbite. It’s completely normal to have a slight overbite, but if it’s too large, it might cause some issues like gum recession or discomfort while eating or speaking. When this overlap is excessive, overbite is also referred to as a deep bite, meaning there is too much vertical overlap of your front teeth. Excessive overbite can range from mild to severe.
A normal overbite (of 1 to 3 millimeters) is protective, but when that overlap exceeds 3 millimeters, it can become harmful to teeth, gums, and jaw joints. Overbite is also a condition that tends to worsen over time and with age. Overbite treatment often requires dental or orthodontic intervention.
Overbite vs. Overjet
Sometimes overbite is confused with overjet. An overjet is a horizontal issue, where the upper teeth protrude outwards too far, sticking out further than the bottom teeth. Both conditions have different causes and treatments.
What Causes Overbite?
Overbite can be influenced by a variety of factors. For starters, it can be genetic, meaning if your parents or grandparents have an excessive overbite, there’s a chance you might develop one too. Certain habits, such as clenching or grinding, can also contribute to an excessive overbite. And let’s not forget about the role of natural aging. As we grow older, our teeth and jaw structure gradually change, which can sometimes leads to an increase in overbite.
Several factors can contribute to an overbite, including:
- Dental overbite – Caused by tooth position (teeth erupting too far) rather than bone structure.
- Skeletal (Jaw) Overbite – Caused by the way the jaw bones have grown and developed.
- Genetics – The shape of your jaw and positioning of your teeth can be inherited.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism) – Can wear down teeth unevenly, sometimes leading to a deep bite.
- Missing teeth – May cause shifting of teeth and increased overlap of front teeth.
What are the Risks of an Overbite
A severe overbite or deep bite can cause your lower front teeth to bite into the roof of your mouth, or upper front teeth to bite into the gums in front of the lower teeth. This often causes discomfort and potential damage to the gums and bone surrounding the teeth. It may also cause misalignment of your teeth and jaw, making it hard for you to chew or speak properly. Essentially, deep bites can have significant impacts on your tooth alignment and bite function, in addition to your smile. So, it’s best to consult with your dentist or orthodontist if you’re dealing with either of these conditions.
Left untreated, a severe overbite can lead to:
- Tooth wear
- Jaw pain or TMJ disorders
- Chewing difficulty
- Speech issues
- Gum recession
- Lower self-confidence
Treatment Options for Overbite
Orthodontic treatments for overbite are tailored to each individual’s unique needs. For deep bites, orthodontists can use braces, clear aligners, or growth modification devices to gradually move the teeth and correct the bite. It’s important to note that the effectiveness of these treatments varies from person to person. That’s why a personalized treatment plan is important. An orthodontist will consider factors such as age, oral health, and the severity of the bite problem to craft a plan that gives you the best, most predictable results. Remember, the goal is not just to give you a beautiful smile, but also to improve your overall oral health and functionality.
Can clear aligners treat overbite? Absolutely! Let’s learn more about orthodontic treatment options.
Treatment Options for Overbite
Fortunately, overbites or deep bites are very treatable. Treatment depends on your age, oral health, cause, and severity of the overbite.
1. Braces
Traditional braces and clear braces are a very effective tools for correcting overbites. They gradually move the teeth and jaw into better alignment. They can be used along with palatal expanders and bite correcting appliances.
2. Invisalign (Clear Aligners)
Aligners are a popular option for teens and adults who want a less noticeable treatment. When engineered by an orthodontist, clear aligners can even treat severe overbites. Treating an overbite with clear aligners is absolutely possible, but it requires time, precision, and careful planning by an experienced orthodontist.
Clear aligners like Angel Aligner, Clarity, or Invisalign can effectively guide the teeth into better positions over time using a series of clear trays. However, the key to successful overbite correction lies in the orthodontist’s treatment plan and the patient’s dedication to wearing the aligners. Treatment with aligners may include strategies like bite ramps, attachments, elastics, or other accessories. Aligners can be used alongside palatal expanders and bite correcting appliances.
With consistent wear and expert oversight, clear aligners can deliver a functional bite and a beautiful smile—even in cases with significant overbite.
3. Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery
In severe skeletal cases, especially in adults where jaw growth is complete, surgery may be required to reposition the jaw.
4. Growth Modification Devices
Bite correcting appliances aimed at promoting growth and aligning the jaws are often used in children and teens whose jaws are still growing.
How Long Does it Take to Treat Overbite?
Treating an overbite, especially a severe deep bite, can require a significant amount of time. It can sometimes involve the relationship between the jaws. Because every case is unique, treatment duration can vary, often taking 14 to 24 months depending on severity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is an overbite normal?
Yes, a small overbite (1-3 mm) is normal. It only becomes a concern when there is excessive overlap or significantly affects function or health of the teeth and gums.
Q: Can overbites correct themselves?
Mild overbites in children can sometimes improve as permanent teeth come in. However, most cases do not self-correct and will require some form of orthodontic treatment.
Q: How long does it take to fix an overbite?
Fixing an overbite can vary depending on the severity and the treatment method used. Treatment of mild to moderate overbite cases often takes 1 to 1.5 years on average. Moderate severe overbite cases often take 1.5 to 2 years on average.
Q: Does Invisalign work for overbites?
Yes, clear aligners such as Invisalign can be effective for overbites, only when engineered and planned by an experienced orthodontist.
Q: Is fixing an overbite just cosmetic?
Not at all. While appearance can be a big factor, correcting an overbite can also prevent jaw problems, tooth damage, gum recession, and speech difficulties.
Q: What age is best for overbite correction?
Early intervention (around age 7–10) can be ideal for severe or symptomatic overbite. However, most are treated in the teenage years. Adults can still see successful overbite correction with orthodontic treatment.
Final Thoughts
If you or your child has an overbite, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. Thanks to modern orthodontics, there are now more comfortable, discreet, and effective treatments than ever before.
Whether you’re considering braces, clear aligners, or just starting your journey to understand options, a consultation with an orthodontist can help you understand your unique bite and find the best path forward. Our team at Godley Family Orthodontics in Zionsville, IN can help provide a smile and bite evaluation and review your options.
Your smile matters. And treating an overbite isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about function, health, and confidence.
