An overbite is a dental condition where the upper front teeth extend beyond the lower front teeth.
While some overlap between the upper and lower teeth is normal, a pronounced or deep overbite can lead to various issues.
Overbites can impact not just the alignment of your teeth but also your overall oral health, causing discomfort and even long-term problems if left untreated.
This article explores the causes, effects, and treatment options for overbites. It will also explain how Smilelign clear aligners can help correct the condition and improve your smile.
What causes an overbite?
There are several reasons why an overbite might develop, and they can vary from person to person. The most common causes include:
Genetics
Your genetics play a major role in determining the size and shape of your jaw and teeth. For some, a naturally small or narrow jaw can result in overcrowding, which pushes the teeth out of alignment, leading to an overbite.
Childhood habits
Thumb-sucking, prolonged dummy use, or extended bottle-feeding can all put pressure on the teeth and jaw, altering their alignment over time.
Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Habitual grinding or clenching of the teeth can wear down the enamel and force teeth to shift out of place, worsening an overbite.
Missing or misaligned teeth
When teeth are missing or improperly aligned, the remaining teeth may drift into the empty spaces. This can then disrupt the natural bite and sometimes creating or worsening an overbite.
How does an overbite impact your teeth and well-being?
While an overbite may seem like a cosmetic issue, it can have significant effects on your oral health and overall well-being:
- Excessive wear on teeth by applying uneven pressure, leading to enamel erosion, chipping, or fractures
- Strain on the jaw and surrounding muscles which can lead to jaw pain and headaches
- Difficulty eating and speaking if an overbite is severe
- Increased risk of gum disease as misaligned teeth can be difficulty to properly clean
Can an overbite be corrected?
The good news is that overbites are treatable. There are several options available depending on the severity of the condition.
In some cases, braces or surgery may be recommended. However, for many patients, clear aligners like Smilelign offer a non-invasive and highly effective solution.
Correcting an overbite with Smilelign
Smilelign clear aligners are designed to not only straighten teeth but also address bite alignment issues like overbites.
The treatment process is designed to straighten teeth while improving overall bite alignment. Smilelign aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth, gently moving them into the desired position over time.
The clear, removable aligners are comfortable to wear. Unlike traditional metal braces, they don’t have brackets or wires that can irritate the gums.
You can also remove the aligners when eating, drinking, or cleaning your teeth, which makes maintaining good oral hygiene much easier.
The Smilelign Process
With Smilelign, the journey to correcting an overbite is simple and straightforward:
Meet your Smilelign dentist: At your first appointment, your dentist will take impressions or a 3D scan of your teeth to create your custom treatment plan.
We’ll create your treatment plan: Smilelign’s treatment planners use advanced software to map out your teeth’s movement step by step, ensuring a precise and predictable outcome.
Follow-up appointment: During a follow-up appointment, your dentist will review your treatment plan with you, including costs, duration, and expected results.
Start correcting your overbite: Once approved, your custom aligners will be produced and sent to your dentist, ready for you to begin your journey toward a healthier smile.
Ready to correct your overbite?
If you’re concerned about an overbite and how it affects your teeth, now is the perfect time to take action.
Book a consultation with your closest Smilelign provider today to explore how clear aligners can transform your smile and restore your confidence!
