Overbites and underbites are two of the most common orthodontic problems. If you have been diagnosed with either of these issues, you might wonder exactly what that means and what may be involved in getting your smile into proper alignment. In this succinct blog post, Dr. Ben Youel of Grayslake Orthodontics explains what you should know.
What Are Overbites and Underbites?
An overbite is the term that describes a bite wherein the upper front teeth rest in front of the bottom teeth. Orthodontists refer to this as “excess overjet,” but lay people typically prefer the term “overbite.” Ideally, everyone should have a small amount of overbite. However, this term is usually used when the gap between the top and bottom teeth exceeds 2 – 3 millimeters.
An underbite is the opposite problem. It is when the bottom front teeth rest in front of the top teeth.
Overbites and underbites can develop for various reasons, with genetics being a common reason. Other contributors to these issues can include overuse of pacifiers, improper tongue positioning, trauma, and abnormally shaped teeth.
How Can an Overbite or Underbite Affect You?
It is best to correct overbites and underbites as soon as possible. Left untreated, they might contribute to a range of problems, including:
- Speech difficulties.
- Uneven wear and tear on your tooth enamel.
- An undesirable facial profile.
- Breathing problems, particularly during sleep.
- Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), which can cause headaches, facial pain, and other symptoms.
Fixing Overbites and Underbites
Overbites and underbites can be corrected at almost any age. However, it is easier to do so in children whose jaws and teeth are still developing.
Correcting these issues might involve the use of braces, which may work alongside elastics (small rubber bands) to bring the jaws into alignment. For teens and adults, invisible clear aligners are sometimes used instead of traditional braces.
In some cases, other accessories are used in the treatment of overbites and underbites in kids, such as:
- A Herbst appliance. A Herbst appliance is attached to the upper back molars. Its job is to move the lower jaw forward in order to correct an overbite.
- A MARA appliance. A Mandibular Anterior Repositioning Appliance can also be used to guide the lower jaw forward and correct an overbite.
- A protraction facemask. The facemask helps direct the growth of the upper jaw forward in a situation where there is an underbite.
When an overbite or underbite is particularly severe, surgery might be the best treatment option. These jaw surgeries are known as orthognathic surgeries.
Overbites and underbites can wreak havoc on your oral health! Fortunately, treatment options are available that can correct these issues and provide long-term protection for your smile.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Ben Youel is an accomplished orthodontist. He has completed extensive training that has equipped him to take on even complex and severe cases of dental misalignment. If you are concerned about how an overbite or underbite might be affecting your oral health (or that of your child), Dr. Ben and our team would be pleased to speak with you. Contact our Grayslake, IL office at 847-548-4330.
