What does the orthodontist do for an overbite?

An overbite is a common orthodontic condition where the top row of teeth partially covers the bottom row. The amount of coverage is measured as a percentage. A 100% overbite means that the top row of teeth completely covers the bottom row.

It is often relatively easy to fix. Actually, most people have some percentage of an overbite. But it is usually not serious enough to need professional dental attention, so they just choose to live with it.

New innovations in dental technology like the Invisalign teeth straightening process and clear braces have increased the number of people opting to get their overbites treated. An overbite can cause several problems ranging from jaw function to the physical appearance of your teeth. Wearing of tooth enamel increases the chances of tooth decay and gum disease.

Since the lower teeth undercut the upper ones, in some cases they cut into the upper gums and palate and cause major damage. A serious overbite can even change the physical appearance of your face and may even cause a person to appear less attractive than they otherwise would. X-rays are used to evaluate your teeth and jaw alignment.

If wearing, alignment or speech impeding problems are present, you may be referred to an orthodontist. An orthodontist will treat a condition with straightening, braces or surgery, based on the percentage of overbite. Braces can take up to two and a half years to complete treatment.

Although an overbite can be corrected at any age, the best time to treat this condition is during childhood before the jaw has fully developed.