The overwhelming majority of people have a slight overbite, in that their front teeth stick out in front of their bottom ones. This is perfectly natural, but you’ve known for a long time that your overbite is a little more…pronounced than those around you. Is this a problem that needs to be fixed, or should you pay it no mind? The truth is that many people in your situation could greatly benefit from orthodontic care, and to see if this might include you, keep reading.
The Potential Risks of an Overbite
While many aren’t bothered by their overbite in the slightest, some experience a myriad of issues directly associated with it. Do any of the following sound familiar?
- You feel self-conscious about smiling, laughing, or talking because of your overbite
- You frequently hit and chip your front teeth
- Your front teeth are more discolored compared to the others
- You sometimes find it hard to breathe through your nose or find yourself mouth breathing
- You experience jaw pain or headaches
- You have difficulties eating certain foods or drinking
If any of these ring a bell, then it’s probably time to consider professional treatment.
What You Can Do About Your Overbite
Fortunately, the process is essentially one step for you: call an orthodontist.
An overbite can develop due to how the teeth come in, how your jaws developed, or both. Whatever the case may be, an orthodontist is the perfect person to talk to because they have special training to address all of these concerns.
How An Orthodontist Can Help with an Overbite
Depending on the severity of your overbite, your orthodontist may recommend either Invisalign clear aligners or traditional braces. Typically, mild to moderate cases can be handled by clear aligners, while more complex ones are better left to braces. Thankfully, an orthodontist has plenty of experience using both, meaning you can trust that you’ll be in great hands and enjoy your final result either way.
About the Author
Dr. Frances Hamman earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Creighton University in 1991 and her degree in orthodontics from Case Western Reserve University in 1993. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists. Her office in Ripon, WI offers traditional braces and Invisalign, both of which she has used to help countless patients with overbites, underbites, crossbites, open bites, and other orthodontic issues. To schedule a consultation and see how she can help you get the smile you deserve, contact Dr. Hamman online or call (920) 748-7130.
