Overbite Kingston
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An overbite is when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth too much, a type of teeth misalignment. It can be vertical, with top teeth greatly overlapping the bottom, or horizontal, where top teeth jut out over the bottom. A slight overbite is normal, but a large one can cause lower teeth wear, jaw pain, and chewing and speaking difficulties.
Many factors can cause an overbite. They include:
Two types of overbite exist. They include:
A dental overbite is when developmental issues occurs in a child, such as overcrowding and other factors, which result in the lower front teeth over erupting and increasing the overbite. A skeletal overbite occurs when the jaw bone develops abnormally.
The IOTN system classifies overbite issues in children, as shown in the table below.
| Type of overbite | Size | Cause | Surgery needed? | Braces needed? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Normal | 2 – 4mm | Usually dental-related | Unlikely | Possibly |
| Deep | 4 – 8mm | Skeletal or dental | Unlikely | Yes |
| Severe | 9mm and above | Skeletal or dental | Likely | Yes |
Treating an overbite is necessary for several reasons, as an untreated deep overbite can cause
Early overbite correction in a child is more effective than correcting this problem in adulthood. In adults, the teeth and jawbones are fully developed, which makes repositioning them more difficult.
A normal overbite is about 2 – 4mm, so you don’t need to worry about treatment if your top teeth slightly overlap the bottom teeth.
Your orthodontist may recommend different options to correct an overbite. The most suitable overbite treatment will depend on its cause and the severity of the case.
Many people with an overbite undergo braces treatment as they are effective and give a long-term result when combined with a retainer. The treatment duration may be between 1 – 3 years long depending on the other aspects of the bite that also need to be corrected.
If you opt for private treatment, you may get clear braces which are less noticeable than the traditional metal braces. Before braces treatment for an overbite, ask your orthodontist for before and after pictures of past patients. This should give you an idea of what to expect after your treatment and may motivate you to undergo yours.
Invisalign can effectively correct mild to moderate overbites. Your Orthodontist will let you know whether Invisalign is a suitable treatment option in your case.
If an overbite results from a skeletal discrepancy, jaw surgery may be necessary. This procedure is also known as orthognathic surgery. Surgery can help shape a poorly developed mandible or lower jaw. Your face may look slightly different after jaw surgery and will be more in proportion and in harmony.
If you have an overbite, our experienced orthodontists at Kingston Orthodontics can examine your bite and teeth to determine if you need treatment and recommend the right treatment option. Call us today on 0203 002 2501 to schedule an appointment with our orthodontist.
Correcting an overbite usually involves a simple procedure. Orthodontists can correct overbite with any of the following or by combining them.
An overbite cannot be corrected naturally. It requires braces or surgery.
Children below 18 years may qualify for orthodontic treatmtent to correct the overbite within the NHS. The eligibility for this treatment, like other dental and orthodontic treatments, depends on the severity of the case.
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We are here to help you achieve the perfect – and affordable – smile so please talk to us about our popular interest-free payment plans. Spread the cost and relax – secure in the knowledge that your treatment will take place on time and on budget.