Are you worried that the overbite you’ve been dealing with since childhood might be too much? Or perhaps you’re just curious if this is normal? We understand that feeling.
Wondering, “Is overbite normal?” is an instinct to have. Humans always strive to learn more about the human body and why we do what we do.
We aim to put your questions about your mouth to rest. Keep reading to find out whether or not you have a normal overbite.
Identifying an Overbite
An overbite smile is a dental condition in which the top teeth overlap the bottom teeth. If you’re concerned that you may have a mild to moderate overbite, it is essential to have it identified by a qualified dental professional. Overbites can indicate malocclusion, resulting in poor oral hygiene and health.
Breathing is your best bet for identifying a severe overbite. Visit your dentist or orthodontist for an exam and discuss the issue with them in detail. Be honest and thorough when explaining any signs or symptoms you are having.
This will help the professional accurately diagnose the severity of the overbite. Doing so will aid in developing an effective treatment plan should there be a need.
When to See a Professional
Overbites can vary in severity and can be hereditary, developed from thumb-sucking or premature loss of baby teeth. Generally speaking, a slight overbite that does not cause other issues, such as difficulty speaking, eating, or impacting orthodontic treatment, may not need treatment.
However, if the overbite is severe, treatment should be considered to prevent future dental problems. Seeing a professional will ensure that the overbite is correctly diagnosed and, if necessary, the proper treatment plan is implemented to help correct the problem.
Orthodontists and dentists are the ones to visit in these cases, and they can best judge whether treatment is necessary for an individual patient.
Snow Family Dentistry offers a range of options for its patients. They treat every patient who enters their office, giving them access to top-notch dental care, plenty of comfort and convenience, and warm, welcoming service.
Treatment Options
Treatment options for overbites depend on the severity and range from simple lifestyle changes. To determine the best option, an orthodontic consultation should be done to evaluate the individual case and decide the best solution.
Ultimately, seeking the opinion of an experienced orthodontist is the best way. This is to gain insight into the severity of the issue and find the most suitable treatment option. Here are some of the treatment options:
Braces and Clear Aligners
Straight talk about overbite normalcy regarding braces and clear aligners is that an overbite is considered normal. Braces and clear aligners can help correct an overbite by bringing the lower teeth up and in line with the upper teeth. The length and the type of treatment will vary from person to person, depending on the severity of the overbite.
Invisalign
Invisalign is an excellent option for straightening your teeth and correcting your overbite. Invisalign utilizes custom-fitted aligners to move your teeth into the desired position gradually. Unlike most traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are practically invisible.
Plus, this process will help them determine whether or not Invisalign can help you achieve the desired results. So don’t be afraid to speak to an Invisalign provider and have a direct and honest conversation about your overbite.
Palate Expanders
Palate expanders are great for helping to correct an overbite. These are devices that are inserted into the mouth and expanded. The erupting teeth will then naturally move outward as the jaw widens to create a more excellent room in the mouth’s arch and eventually guide teeth into position.
Using a palatal expander is not instant and will take some time, but if done correctly, it can correct an overbite and improve the position of the teeth.
Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery is a procedure to correct a malocclusion or misalignment of the teeth and jaw. It is often used to treat TMJ issues, correct severe overbites, or fill the space created by missing teeth.
The jawbone is reshaped during the surgery, and the teeth are repositioned. The process can be quite involved and may require several visits to complete.
Causes of an Overbite
An overbite can lead to various issues, such as difficulty speaking and eating, and cosmetic problems, like a protruding jaw. Speaking candidly with your dentist is essential to determine if your overbite is normal. They will be able to evaluate the severity of the bite and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Depending on the root cause of your overbite, it may require one or more treatments to correct it. Thus, considering the cause and severity of the overbite, it is best to consult a dentist to determine if your overbite is in the normal range.
Oral Hygiene Routine
Taking proper care of your oral hygiene routine is essential in providing your teeth with a lifetime of healthy wear and tear. Maintaining a regular schedule of brushing, flossing, and rinsing helps to diminish plaque buildup and promote healthy gum tissue.
When you ensure that your teeth and gums are clean, your dentist and orthodontist can begin to assess the condition of your teeth and bite.
Understanding the alignment of your teeth and bite when brushing or flossing allows your orthodontist to compare your progress and make the necessary adjustments. This ensures that your overbite is normal by providing advice and feedback.
The Psychology of an Overbite
Although it is not always a cause for concern, an overbite can psychologically impact individuals. Those affected by this issue will often feel embarrassed or have low self-confidence. They may also think that they have fewer opportunities to be socially accepted and will often feel avoided.
Therefore, it is essential to talk openly and honestly with individuals suffering from this condition and offer encouragement that it is possible to seek treatment. People should be aware that they are not alone and an overbite is not something that needs to be shameful or embarrassing.
Understanding the Question, “Is Overbite Normal?”
Is overbite normal? Most people develop an overbite to some degree, but if yours is severe, it’s eager to be corrected. Speak to an orthodontist for a comprehensive assessment and treatment plan to learn if your overbite requires correction.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions – take control of your dental health and get the answers you need!
