An overbite is a common dental condition where the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth when you bite down, but what actually causes it?
If not addressed, it can cause discomfort and even lead to other dental issues.
Wondering what you can do to fix an overbite? In this article, we’ll explore what an overbite is, its causes, and how it can be corrected using Smilelign clear aligners.
What is an overbite?
An overbite occurs when the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth more than what is considered ideal. This condition can vary in severity, and there are two types:
- Vertical Overbite: This is when the upper teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth vertically.
- Horizontal Overbite: In this case, the upper teeth jut out further than the lower teeth horizontally.
Overbites are often classified as mild, moderate, or severe, with more significant cases potentially leading to jaw discomfort, difficulty chewing, and wear on the teeth.
Causes of an overbite
An overbite can be caused by a number of factors, many of which are hereditary or related to childhood habits. Here are some of the main causes.
- Genetics
- Thumb sucking
- Jaw growth issues
- Teeth misalignment
If you’ve noticed your teeth overlap more than you’d like or feel discomfort when chewing, it’s worth looking into treatment options sooner rather than later.
Why should you fix an overbite?
While an overbite may not always cause immediate pain, it can lead to several long-term issues if left untreated. Therefore, correcting an overbite will not only improve the appearance of your teeth but also enhance your overall dental health and comfort.
Wear on teeth
The excess overlap can cause the upper and lower teeth to rub against each other more than normal, leading to tooth wear, chips, and sensitivity.
Jaw pain
Misalignment of the bite can put additional strain on the jaw muscles, potentially causing discomfort or even headaches.
Difficulty chewing
A severe overbite may make it harder to chew properly, which can affect your eating habits and overall comfort.
Speech challenges
In some cases, an overbite can affect speech, making it difficult to pronounce certain sounds clearly.
How can Smilelign help?
Smilelign clear aligners are a modern, discreet way to straighten your teeth and correct bite issues like overbites.
The transparent trays made from a high-quality plastic material gradually moves your teeth into position.
Unlike traditional metal braces, Smilelign aligners are virtually invisible, so you can go about your daily life without drawing attention to your treatment.
What makes Smilelign clear aligners stand out?
1) More movement per aligner
Smilelign aligners move your teeth 0.3mm per stage, which means fewer aligners are needed to complete your treatment compared to other options on the market. This not only makes Smilelign more efficient, but it can also save you money in the long run.
2) No dietary restrictions
Unlike traditional braces, Smilelign aligners are removable, giving you the flexibility to take them out when eating, drinking, brushing, or flossing. This means you can enjoy your favourite foods without worrying about wires or brackets, and maintaining good oral hygiene is a breeze.
3) Comfortable
Smilelign aligners are made from smooth, medical-grade plastic, designed to fit snugly and comfortably on your teeth. Without wires or brackets to cause irritation, you can enjoy a more comfortable experience while your teeth are gradually aligned.
4) Discreet
Smilelign aligners are virtually invisible, allowing you to straighten your teeth without drawing attention to your treatment. Whether you’re at work, socialising, or going about your daily routine, you can feel confident knowing that your aligners are discreet and effective.
5) Free goodies!
When you begin your Smilelign journey, you’ll receive a free goody bag filled with helpful essentials to kickstart your treatment. This includes a Smilelign mirror, a lip balm, and a handy cleaning spray.
Want to correct your overbite?
Don’t let an overbite impact your comfort or confidence. Take control of your dental health today by finding a Smilelign dentist near you. You could be in treatment in as little as 10 days!
