If you have overlapping teeth, you know how difficult it can be to feel self-confident with your smile. From avoiding the camera to low self-esteem, this issue can start to impact every area of your life.
Thankfully, braces can help. By properly angling your teeth, they can fix an overbite and bring your teeth into perfect alignment.
Imagine being able to smile with confidence and spread those beautiful pearly whites! Continue reading to learn more about teeth overlap and how to fix them.
Contents
What Is an Overbite?
An overbite, also known as an excessive overjet, refers to when the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth to an excessive degree. An adult may have an overbite if their front teeth overlap by more than 3 millimeters when their front jaw is closed.
The Causes and Symptoms of Overbite
A variety of factors can cause an overbite. This may include the following:
- genetics
- missing teeth
- thumb or finger sucking
- the structure of the jaw
The most visible symptom of an overbite is when the top teeth significantly overlap the bottom teeth. This can cause difficulty with eating and speaking as the teeth are misaligned.
Another symptom is a buckle or spacing between the two rows of teeth. In extreme cases, it can shift the bottom row of teeth backward, and in rare cases can even require self-to-withdrawal.
How Braces Can Help Correct an Overbite
Braces can help correct an overbite when teeth overlap. Braces help to separate and realign the teeth to the correct position and reduce the overlap.
To fix an overbite, the braces will use slow, gentle, and continuous pressure to straighten and realign the teeth and jaw over time. The dentist or orthodontist might also use other treatments, such as rubber bands, headgear, and other appliances, to get the teeth into the proper position.
With regular visits to the orthodontist during treatment, patients can expect to see results in about six months. It’s important to watch out for signs you need braces so you can fix any problem immediately.
How Long Will It Take to Fix Overbite With Braces
The amount of time it takes to fix an overbite with braces depends on the severity of the teeth overlap. Mild misalignments between the front teeth may only require a few months to treat.
Severe overbites, however, can take as long as two years to entirely correct. If braces are projected to fix an overlap in teeth, the patient will need to wear braces for the entire treatment time.
During treatment, regular check-ups with the orthodontist will be required to monitor the progress and adjust the braces as needed. Typically, the patient may also need to wear some retainer or appliance at night to ensure the teeth stay aligned.
With consistent treatment and regular adjustments, patients can expect an improved overbite within six months to a year or more.
Choosing the Right Braces for Overbite Treatment
When choosing the right braces for overbite treatment, there are several factors to consider. Orthodontists often use a variety of different types of braces for overbite treatment.
This ranges from traditional metal brackets and wires to clear aligners. Carefully evaluate your lifestyle to determine the best option for your needs.
Metal Brackets and Wires
Metal brackets and wires are a popular choice for overbite treatment. They are affordable, versatile, and customizable. Your orthodontist can adjust the size and shape of the brackets, as well as the wire size and shape. This is to provide the most comfortable treatment.
Metal brackets are also designed to be discreet and fit close to the mouth. This makes them ideal for adults who want their braces to be as discreet as possible.
Metal brackets and wires are also effective in correcting overbites and can give you a beautiful smile in no time. The downside to metal brackets and wires is that they can be uncomfortable, difficult to clean, and can make speech difficult.
If you are looking for a more comfortable option, you could consider ceramic or lingual braces. They may be more expensive but provide a more comfortable experience.
Clear Aligners
When considering treatment for an overbite, clear aligners can be a viable option. Clear aligners are custom-made from clear, removable plastic trays. They are specifically designed to fit comfortably in the mouth.
The aligners can be worn all day, but removed for eating and drinking, which makes them an attractive option. Clear aligners work by gradually shifting the teeth one step at a time into the desired position.
This corrective process usually takes one to two years to complete. This depends on the severity of the overbite. While clear aligners are an effective form of treatment, the patient’s commitment to wearing them is essential for treatment to be successful.
Clear aligners take dedication and consistency in order to obtain the desired results. Careful consideration should be taken when selecting a treatment option for an overbite. Clear aligners may be just the right choice for some.
Estimating the Total Cost of Orthodontic Treatment to Fix an Overbite
Generally, the cost of orthodontic treatment will depend on the severity of the overbite and the type of braces used. In addition to the cost of the braces, there may also be a need for additional treatments, such as bonding or space maintainers, to be performed for the overbite to be corrected correctly.
Factoring in all the required treatments, a patient can typically expect to spend anywhere from $2,500 to $8,000 to fix an overbite with braces.
Learn How to Fix Teeth Overlap
Braces are an effective way to fix an overbite. The process takes time and commitment, but in the end, the result will be a healthy, straight smile.
Speak with your dentist for more information on how braces can help fix your teeth overlap and improve oral health. Take the first step towards a confident smile today!
Visit our blog today for more articles.
