What is an overbite and how is it treated?

Dental clinic in Houston

An overbite is a malocclusion where the upper front teeth protrude excessively over the lower teeth.

This type of malocclusion is often hereditary. Jaw shape, like other physical characteristics, can be passed down from generation to generation. Childhood habits, such as thumb sucking and the use of pacifiers, are other possible causes of an overbite.

child habits

Thumb sucking is known as non-nutritive sucking behavior, which means that the sucking motion does not provide any nutrition as it would with nursing. When this habit continues beyond age 3 or 4 or when the permanent teeth come in, the pressure created by sucking and fingering can cause the permanent teeth to come in at an abnormal angle.

Pacifier use is another form of non-nutritive sucking. You can cause an overbite in the same way as thumb sucking.

tongue thrust

Tongue thrust occurs when the tongue presses the front teeth forward. While this usually results in a malocclusion known as an open bite, it can sometimes cause an overbite as well.

The condition is more common in children, but it can continue into adulthood. It can be caused by a number of things, including chronically inflamed tonsils and poor swallowing habits. In adults, stress can also trigger it, and some adults push their tongue out during sleep.

Problems Caused by Overbite

An overbite can cause health problems depending on its severity. Among them are:

Speech impediments.

Respiratory problems.

Chewing deficiencies.

Damage to other teeth and gums.

Pain when chewing or biting.

Alterations in the appearance of the face.

Overbite Treatment: Orthodontics

Unless the overbite is severe and causing serious problems, treatment is not medically necessary. If there is a problem with the aesthetics and appearance of the smile, it will be necessary to visit the orthodontist who will determine the best treatment plan according to the situation.

treatment with brackets

Orthodontic treatment with brackets is the most common treatment, gradually moving the teeth over time and obtaining a more harmonious smile.

Sometimes when the maxilla is too small to accommodate the permanent teeth, the palate needs to be expanded. This procedure is performed with a special device that consists of two pieces that are attached to the upper molars and an expansion screw that gradually separates the two pieces to widen the palate.

Source: adeslasdental

Prestigious Smiles Dentistry: When it comes to finding the best dental practice in Houston, Prestigious Smiles Family Dentistry is the right place. Your Dentist in Houston, Tx, is dedicated to delivering high-quality dental care using advanced technology and state-of-the-art equipment.

Dental clinic in Houston

Dentist office in Houston, Dentist near me in Houston, Emergency dentist in Houston, Family dentist in Houston, Dental clinic in Houston, Dental service in Houston, Dental care in Houston, Dental problems in Houston, Dental Implants in Houston, Dental practice in Houston, Family Dentistry in Houston, General Dentistry in Houston, Cosmetic Dentistry in Houston, Dental Crowns in Houston, Emergency Dental Care in Houston, Restore Implant Crowns in Houston, Zoom Whitening in Houston, Composite Fillings in Houston, invisalign in Houston, Occlusal guards in Houston, Sedation Dentistry in Houston, Pediatric Dentistry in Houston, Laser Dentistry in Houston, Prophy Basic Cleaning in Houston, Scaling and Root Planning in Houston, Oral Surgery in Houston, Root Canals in Houston, Orthodontics in Houston, Prosthodontics in Houston, Dental Crown Porcelain in Houston, Teeth straightening in Houston