How Can I Fix Overbite Issues Without Using Metal Braces?

Fix Overbite

An overbite is one of the most noticeable dental issues that require orthodontic treatment in Charlotte. If left untreated, it can cause severe dental and even psychological problems, so it’s best to treat it earlier rather than later.

Orthodontists and dentists will typically recommend metal braces to treat the issue. However, some patients don’t find that procedure appealing and want something else. Thankfully, there are alternate options on how to fix overbite concerns without the need for metal braces.

If you want to learn more about overbites, what causes them, how to fix them besides getting braces, and much more vital information, then keep reading ahead!

What is an Overbite?

An overbite is a type of malocclusion wherein the top set of teeth overlaps with the bottom set in a much more noticeable way than what’s considered normal. 

Depending on one’s teeth, an overbite may manifest either horizontally or vertically. A horizontal overbite is when the top set of teeth protrudes over the bottom set of teeth. A vertical overbite is where the top set of teeth overlaps the bottom ones.

Besides horizontally and vertically, an overbite can also be categorized as either skeletal or dental. A skeletal overbite occurs when it’s the structure of the jaw that causes the overbite whereas a dental overbite are when the teeth are not in the correct position.

What Causes an Overbite?

In certain instances, overbites can be hereditary. It may be embedded as a genetic trait wherein the structure of your jaw affects the alignment of your teeth. The other causes of an overbite are:

  • Teeth grinding
  • Excessive nail biting
  • Thumb sucking
  • Long-term pacifier use 
  • Pushing the tongue against the back of the teeth
  • Other childhood habits that involve teeth
  • Having spaced-out or crowded teeth 
  • Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ)

According to the American Dental Association, about 70% of children show signs of having an overbite. If you have any children, it’s best to take them to the orthodontist in order to examine their bite and treat it as early as possible.

Signs You Have an Overbite

Having an overbite is pretty common, and some overbites don’t need immediate correction. However, when an overbite is either too big or too small, then that’s when issues may arise.

You are considered to have an overbite when the top teeth overlap the bottom set of teeth by more than three millimetres, according to dental experts.

For a more accurate diagnosis, it’s best to consult with a dental professional so they can inspect your bite and give you the proper treatment for it.

Why It’s Important to Fix Overbite Issues

Orthodontists strongly urge to have one’s overbite corrected, depending on the severity of the bite. If your overbite is more on the extreme side, then your bottom teeth can irritate the palate or the roof of your mouth.

Having an overbite can make it difficult for you to clean your teeth due to the structure of your mouth. The difficulty of practising good oral hygiene can lead to neglecting one’s set of teeth, resulting in cavities, enamel erosion, and even tooth decay. A severe case of overbite may require braces or dental surgery. 

Problems Cause by an Overbite

As mentioned, leaving the overbite untreated for so long can lead to several issues, like difficulty speaking and chewing. Additionally, neglecting to fix overbite issues can also result in the following:

  • Gum disease
  • Cavities
  • Jaw problems
  • Facial pain
  • Loss of teeth 
  • Breathing difficulties

And many more.

Having an overbite will complicate simple tasks and will continue to worsen over time. Treatment costs will be much pricier if you wait until the last minute to push through with it. 

Get it treated as early as possible, as untreated overbites can cause significant health complications and cause irreparable damage to the teeth from irregular positioning.

Fix Overbite

How to Fix Overbite Issues Without Metal Braces

So you want to fix overbite issues but don’t want to go through the trouble of getting metal braces? We get it. Traditional braces are not everyone’s cup of tea. It’s too obvious, it can obstruct one’s smile, and sometimes you can get cuts from the wires from time to time. Not to mention you need to follow certain food restrictions because getting food particles stuck in between the braces is not a pretty look.

Here are some alternative options that can also help fix overbite issues for those who don’t want traditional braces. However, having a one-on-one consultation with your orthodontist will help pinpoint which method would work best for your overbite.

#1 – Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces are quite similar to traditional metal braces. However, the component is different as they use ceramic instead of metal. They are also known to treat severe teeth misalignment issues, including overbites. The great thing about ceramic braces compared to metal ones is that they’re less noticeable because they use tooth-coloured brackets that blend well with teeth.

Ceramic braces cost more than traditional metal braces, but it’s still an affordable option that can help fix overbite concerns.

#2 – Clear aligners (Invisalign)

Clear aligners, also commonly known as Invisalign in Charlotte, is yet another popular treatment that many dental patients get because it can also treat mild to moderate overbite issues. Clear aligners are removable and virtually transparent, making it difficult for others to see you’re wearing them.

Invisalign is not exactly a cheap treatment, so try to consult your healthcare provider or insurance company for ways to decrease the total amount to be paid if you want to undergo this treatment.

#3 – Overbite correction surgery (jaw surgery)

Orthognathic surgery is the term used for surgeries that correct severe overbite conditions. It fixes the irregularities of the jaw’s structure, realigning both the jaw and the teeth in order to enhance the way that they work.

This surgery is only recommended for those with extreme overbites. So if your overbite is mild, then the orthodontist will most likely recommend you the other options.

Let Webb & Goldsmith Orthodontics Help Fix Overbite Issues That You Have

Here at Webb & Goldsmith Orthodontics, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. Our team of dental experts will make sure that you’re overbite is treated properly and give you a comfortable and pleasurable experience at the same time. Book an appointment today!