Around 22% of people have an overbite. It’s super common, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with it forever! Besides traditional braces, the question of how to fix an overbite has brought many innovative, effective solutions to the dental chair. Here’s what our practice of general dentistry in Charlotte, NC, can do to bring your bite (and confidence) back in line.
Traditional braces are a common choice for fixing an overbite, but they’re far from being the only solution. Clear aligners, like OrthoFX, are just as effective, especially for those seeking a removable and less visible solution. The ideal solution depends on the severity of the overbite and individual needs.
What Is an Overbite Exactly?
An overbite is what we professionally call malocclusion, also known as a “bad bite,” characterized by the upper teeth overlapping the lower set. So, it’s a dental condition that affects the vertical teeth alignment.
Truth be told, all of us have a slight overbite – it’s what enables us to chew correctly. Anything more than 2-4 millimeters, and it’s considered an overbite. According to the National Library of Medicine, around 8% of the population is dealing with such complex cases.
What Does Perfect Teeth Alignment Look Like?
As we’ve just mentioned, having a slight overbite is completely normal. But what other features make a smile “perfect,” medically speaking?
In a perfect bite, the back teeth, or molars, should sit snugly into the grooves of the opposite jaw. Meanwhile, the front teeth, known as incisors, should line up evenly between the top and bottom set. Altogether, this creates a balanced, comfortable bite with no discomfort on the jaw.
What Are the Risks of Ignoring an Overbite?
Overbite, as well as underbite, crowded teeth, and other misalignments, can make it hard to keep up with a proper oral hygiene routine. This, along with excessive wear and tear on specific areas, can cause a whole lot of trouble in the long run, including the following:
- Discomfort while chewing,
- Tooth decay,
- Breathing issues,
- Speech impediments,
- Temporomandibular jaw disorder (TMJ).
How to Get Rid of an Overbite
When it comes to fixing an overbite, braces have been the go-to approach for a while now. If you’re wondering whether your child needs them, the American Association of Orthodontists suggests making a dentist appointment as early as their 7th birthday. That’s because the teeth are still growing, and they’ll be easier to correct.
Braces, with their brackets and wires, apply consistent, gentle pressure on specific areas to literally move the teeth. It’s a slow, steady process that can result in a serious smile makeover. However, braces can be pretty tricky to get used to.
How to Fix an Overbite Without Braces – Yes, It’s Possible!
Both kids and adults can wear braces, but they’re far from being the only orthodontic treatment available. Clear aligners can also be effective, and they’re much more comfortable to wear.
On top of that, you don’t wear them all the time – they’re entirely removable, and the overall treatment is shorter. There are even nighttime aligners, which help to straighten up your smile from the coziness of your own bed.
How Long Does It Take to Fix an Overbite?
The time needed to correct an overbite depends on the exact orthodontic treatment, which, in turn, depends on the severity of the misalignment. Braces are usually worn for one to three years, while clear aligners can be used for as short as half a year in certain cases.
Aspire Dental Wellness Offers a Comfortable Way to Perfect Your Smile
Our team, led by Dr. Sladjana Bjelac, is committed to the practice of a holistic approach and providing treatments as unique as our patients’ smiles. We prioritize your overall comfort from the moment you enter our office until the day you leave with the smile you’ve always been dreaming of.
Your Charlotte dentist in SouthPark offers a wide range of high-quality aligners, including OrthoFX and Spark™. Together, we’ll find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and those pearly whites!
Overbite, Underbite, Every Bite – OrthoFX Can Fix It!
One standout option we just have to highlight is the OrthoFX aligners. They are nearly invisible and custom-fitted to hug your smile perfectly, making them a comfortable and subtle choice for both straightening and whitening teeth.
They’re crafted from a special 3-layer polymer called FXTetra Bright™, and each aligner features an elastomeric later for extra comfort. Effective for a wide range of misalignments, this is, without a doubt, the top pick for transforming your smile with style and ease!
Let’s Work Together to Bring the Best Out of Your Smile
Dealing with an overbite can be tricky, but the treatments for it are anything but. From clear aligners to even nighttime-only solutions, our cosmetic dentist in Charlotte, NC, offers a variety of treatments to suit your needs and lifestyle. We’ll guide you through each step, all the way to achieving a beautifully aligned smile. Contact us today – let’s bring your bite into balance!
