We tell all our patients who come to our office worried about their overbite that this is one of the most common orthodontic problems we see. When the upper front teeth cover the lower front teeth too much, this is called an overbite. A little bit of overlap is natural and healthy, but too much can make it hard to chew, talk and potentially cause jaw pain over time. The good news is Braces for Adults and people of all ages can fix this problem and make your smile healthier and more beautiful.
Patients feel more comfortable with their treatment when they know what causes an overbite. Genetics can sometimes cause overbites, which means they run in families. In some cases, habits from childhood, like sucking your thumb or using a pacifier for too long, can make the problem worse. The upper jaw can stick out more than the lower jaw in some cases because the jaw bones mature at different speeds. Whatever the reason, we have tried and true ways to fix overbites and move teeth into place.
At Specialty Smiles, we see patients with different levels of overbite. Some have slight overbites that don’t bother them much, while others have more severe ones that do. At our Miami Lakes office, we take precise measurements and pictures during the first visit to see how bad the overbite is. This information helps us create a personalized treatment plan that fits each patient’s needs and goals.
Traditional braces are still the best way to fix overbites. The brackets and wires work together to slowly move teeth into place and fix the way the upper and lower jaws fit together. We use braces and elastics together to fix the bite. These little rubber bands connect the upper and lower braces and put gentle, steady pressure on the jaws to get them to line up. Patients wear these elastics as recommended and they are crucial to get the results they want.
The length of time it takes to fix an overbite depends on how bad it is and how old the patient is. In most cases we see big improvements in 18 to 24 months, but other cases may take more or less time. Younger patients whose jaws are still growing often respond to treatment faster, that’s why early intervention can be helpful. But we can fix overbites in people of all ages so adults should never feel like they’ve missed their chance to get it fixed.
A lot of people are worried if fixing an overbite would hurt. Braces can be uncomfortable when they are first put on or after modifications, but most people find that the pain is bearable and doesn’t last long. We can help you with any pain or discomfort you may be feeling and we’re always here to answer any questions you may have during treatment. The short term trouble is worth it for the long term benefits of a bite that’s in the right place. Retainers help maintain your beautiful new smile by keeping teeth aligned after orthodontic treatment. Wearing retainers as recommended ensures your results remain consistent and long-lasting.
Fixing an overbite has many benefits that go beyond how it looks. When the upper and lower teeth fit together well it’s easier and more comfortable to chew. This greater function can help with digestion because it breaks down food better. Many patients find that the clicking or soreness in their jaw that they had before treatment goes away or gets better once their bite is fixed. Some people also notice that headaches they didn’t know were caused by their bite get better too.
In our Miami Lakes office we often use extra gadgets with braces to fix overbites more efficiently. Braces can help with teeth alignment, while devices like forsus springs or herbst appliances can help move the jaw into place. These technologies sound complicated but they work in the background while patients go about their daily lives. We explain how each one works and why it’s important to get the best results.
Another reason to fix overbites is to prevent future dental problems. Some teeth may wear down faster than others when they don’t fit together right because of uneven pressure. If your front teeth are always under a lot of pressure they can get damaged over time. Fixing an overbite spreads the stresses of biting more evenly across all of your teeth keeping them safe for years to come.
If you have an overbite we recommend you schedule an appointment with Specialty Smiles. During this visit we’ll look at your bite, talk about your concerns and go over the different treatment options available. We take pride in creating personalized plans for each patient based on their individual situation. Fixing an overbite is good for your teeth and your self esteem and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Dr. Eddy J. Sedeño III, DMD, MS, is a board-certified orthodontist proudly serving his hometown of Miami Lakes. A graduate of the University of Florida, he earned both his Doctor of Dental Medicine and Master of Dental Sciences degrees. Recognized for excellence in orthodontics, Dr. Sedeño has contributed to research on Invisalign® treatment and co-authored a leading dental reference chapter. He also serves as a Courtesy Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Florida, reflecting his dedication to both patient care and education.