What is an overbite, and how can it be treated?

A common problem that those who wear braces can experience is an overbite. This is most commonly seen in children, but it can happen after a stroke or tumor, during pregnancy, or as a result of certain other health problems.

Overbites are more common in boys than girls and usually go away on their own by the time they reach 6 years old. They also can be corrected with orthodontics and other procedures such as surgery.

Results from a 2009 study by the American Academy of Orthodontics (AAO) show that almost 50 percent of teens who were referred for orthodontic work were assessed for their overbite by an evaluator trained to detect overbites.

What are the treatment options available?

An overbite that is caused by problems with the jaw (palate) can be corrected with a bite splint or surgery by an orthodontist in Middletown. However, some people require orthodontic treatment to correct the problem.

Treatment options for overbite in children

• • Braces: This is the most common treatment for children. Clear braces, ceramic braces, and metal braces are the most popular types.

• • Retainers: A retainer is a removable plastic device that is worn after braces are removed. Made of acrylic or metal, it keeps your teeth from moving back to their original positions. This ensures that the bite correction you worked so hard for stays in place.

• • Tooth extraction: Some orthodontists may also suggest tooth extraction as the best option for specific cases.

• • Mouthguards: Worn at night, these can be effective in correcting severe overbites.

Of course, if there is a severe overbite, a medical condition such as Crohn’s disease or inflammatory bowel disease may require treatment for the cause of the overbite. Braces are the most effective method for correcting an overbite because they subtly correct short facial structures during daily life that lead to correction when you look in a mirror.

Treatment options for overbite in adults

For adults, it is a different case than with a child. Hence, you should know about distinct treatment options available specifically for adults. Some viable options include the below:

• • Braces: If you have a jaw that is too small for your teeth, the orthodontist may suggest braces. If your overbite is severe, you may need to wear a brace for a year or longer.

• • Tooth extraction: This will be more difficult than for children because the face is taller, the teeth are not as prominent, and the jaw muscles are stronger.

• • Surgical correction: This option is mainly used to correct severe overbites that cannot be corrected with braces.

To sum it all up

Overbite can be an uncomfortable dental experience. Make sure to consult with an orthodontist if you feel problems of overbite affecting you or your loved ones. The Orthodontist in Monroe, NY will propose the most suitable treatment option.

Stuart James is the author of this article. For more details about Braces in Middletown please visit our website: ocortho.net