Most people’s upper front teeth slightly overlap their lower front teeth. In most cases, it’s so slight that it’s not noticeable. Even when the upper teeth overlap more than usual overbite, it’s usually a minor issue that doesn’t need treatment.
However, It’s a different case for a child with excessive overbite or overjet. That is why these conditions cause concerns.
What Are Overbites And Overjet?
- An overbite refers to vertically misaligned teeth. The top front teeth overlap the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. Some people refer to this as a deep bite.
- While an overjet is a horizontal misalignment of teeth, the upper front teeth are pushed far forward, extending ahead of the bottom teeth. Some people call these buck teeth.
However, the difference between these two bite problems is that an overbite focuses on how deep the bite is while an overjet focuses on how far the upper front teeth jut forward.
What Causes These Conditions?
Heredity is the most common cause of an overbite or overjet. That’s because you inherit the shape and size of your jaws and teeth. For instance, a small lower jaw, influenced partly by genetics, can result in an overbite.
Although childhood behaviors can also cause overbites and overjets, including:
- Thumb sucking or pacifier above three years.
- Tongue thrusting is where the tongue moves too far forward when swallowing and speaking.
- Prolonged use of a baby bottle.
- Excessive nail biting.
- Teeth grinding.
Problems Overbites And Overjets Create
- Gum disease.
- Difficulty biting, chewing, and swallowing.
- Tooth decay in hard to clean areas.
- Jaw issues or temporomandibular disorders (TMD).
- Difficulty fully opening or closing the mouth.
- Damage to the teeth, gums, and palate.
- Crowded or crooked teeth.
- Speech issues.
- Breathing difficulties.
- Social concern with appearance.
What Sort Of Treatments Are Available?
Take your child to the skilled dentist at Bayside Dental Group and Orthodontics when teeth first appear.
The dentist will monitor your child’s smile for alignment issues during regular visits.
Around age 7, if an issue is detected, the dentist will likely refer your child to an orthodontist, a dentist who specializes in tooth and jaw alignment.
The severity of the condition and how the child’s permanent teeth, jaws, and face develop will determine the recommended treatment and how soon the procedure will begin.
How Can An Overbite And Overjet Be Aligned?
Overbites and overjets are corrected during puberty while facial bones grow. This is most often accomplished with:
1. Traditional braces
They consist of metal brackets placed on teeth and connected by wire.
2. Invisible aligners
A replaceable clear plastic retainer that moves teeth like conventional braces.
3. Dental appliances
A palatal expander is used to widen the roof of the mouth to make room for all teeth.
Final Note
While an overbite or overjet can’t always be prevented, you can lower your child’s risk of developing these conditions by curbing the above behaviors.
For further information, visit our page Bayside Dental Group and Orthodontics and contact us at (979) 330-4113.