A person in a blue hooded jacket with an orange lining smiles warmly against a light blue background, revealing braces that align their overbite perfectly in Greenville, SC

Overbite in Greenville SC: Causes, Consequences, and Treatment Strategies

An overbite is a common dental condition where the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth. While a slight overlap is entirely normal, a pronounced overbite can lead to various health issues over time if left untreated. This guide provides essential information about the causes, symptoms, and available treatments to help you make informed decisions about your dental care.
Close-up of a person smiling with metal braces correcting their overbite. Brown hair frames their face in Greenville, SC

Defining Overbite vs Overjet: Common Dental Misalignments

Understanding the distinction between an overbite and an overjet is vital. An overbite refers to the vertical overlap where the upper front teeth overly cover the lower front teeth. On the other hand, an overjet relates to the horizontal protrusion of the top front teeth past the lower teeth. Knowing this difference ensures the correct treatment plan is chosen for your condition.

Causes of Severe Overjet and Overbite

Severe overjet and overbite can arise from several factors, including:

Skeletal irregularities in the jaw structure
Misaligned teeth
Genetic predisposition
Childhood habits like thumb-sucking or 
prolonged pacifier use

Understanding the specific cause of your condition allows for a treatment plan customized to your needs.

Close-up of a person smiling with orthodontic braces on their teeth, effectively correcting an overbite with both metal and ceramic brackets gleaming in Greenville, SC
Close-up of a person smiling, showcasing metal braces designed to correct an overbite in Greenville, SC

Signs and Symptoms of an Overbite

Recognizing an overbite early can prevent complications and increase treatment success. Symptoms include:

Upper teeth significantly overlapping the lower teeth
Excessive visibility of the upper teeth compared to the lower teeth
Difficulty in closing the mouth properly
Potential facial imbalance or jaw discomfort

If any of these apply, it’s recommended to consult with orthodontists or dental professionals.

Potential Health Issues
from Untreated Overbite

Neglecting an overbite can have serious consequences for your oral health and well-being. Some possible issues that may arise include:

Jaw pain and discomfort

TMJ disorders

Tooth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

Difficulty maintaining oral hygiene

Risk of tooth decay and gum disease

Speech difficulties

Negative impact on self-confidence

A dentist in a mask and gloves prepares to examine a smiling patient with an overbite, sitting in a dental chair and holding dental tools, in a brightly lit clinic in Greenville, SC

Diagnosis and Assessment of Overbite Severity

Routine check-ups at Tollison Orthodontics with Dr. Blake Tollison include examining teeth alignment and documenting the extent of an overbite. Early and precise diagnosis ensures the most appropriate, personalized treatment plan can be created for you.

Treatment Methods to Fix an Overbite

A variety of strategies exist to correct overbites based on their severity. Several options offered at Tollison Orthodontics include:

Orthodontic treatments such as braces or clear aligners (Invisalign) to gradually align the teeth and improve the bite
In severe cases, surgical interventions may be needed to realign the jaw bones and achieve optimal results
After treatment, retainers are recommended to maintain the corrected alignment and prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original positions

Dr. Blake Tollison and his dedicated team provide expert advice to select the best route for your individual goals and preferences.

Close-up of a person with long brown hair, showcasing metal braces as they slightly smile, gently addressing their overbite in Greenville, SC

Braces and Invisalign Clear Aligners

Traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear braces, all actively treat overbites. These orthodontic tools will guide teeth and adjust jaw position. Alternatives like Invisalign or other clear aligners are excellent options for mild and moderate overbites, offering a discreet appearance while straightening your smile.

Surgical Intervention

Severe overbites caused by skeletal issues may need orthodontic appliances combined with jaw surgery. Surgical treatment focuses on repositioning the jaw for optimal alignment and function. The recovery period may involve time away from routine activities for bone healing and adjustment.

Prevention and Early Intervention Strategies

Early prevention is crucial for avoiding severe overbites. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends scheduling visits to an orthodontist around age seven to address misalignments while a child’s jaw is developing. Avoiding habits like thumb-sucking can also play a role in prevention.

A person with dark hair and an overbite is smiling warmly in a blue shirt against a matching blue background in Greenville, SC
Person sitting in a dental chair gives two thumbs up while wearing a dental bib, relieved after their successful overbite correction, with dental equipment visible in the foreground in Greenville, SC

The Importance of Choosing an Experienced Orthodontist

Selecting a skilled orthodontist is critical for effective results. At Tollison Orthodontics in Greenville, Dr. Blake Tollison and his experienced staff carefully design treatment plans to align teeth, restore proper bite function, and enhance overall facial harmony. Their advanced tools and techniques ensure precise, lasting outcomes tailored to every patient.

FAQ

Is it OK to have an overbite?

A minor overbite might not always require treatment, as some overlap between the upper and lower teeth is normal. However, when a severe overbite causes the lower teeth to be disproportionately covered, it’s important to consult an orthodontist such as Dr. Blake Tollison for a professional assessment.

What causes an overbite?

An overbite can result from factors like hereditary traits, prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use, speech issues, or overcrowded teeth affecting jaw growth.

How can an overbite be corrected?

Overbite can be corrected but it depends on the severity of the condition. Orthodontic solutions, including braces, clear braces, and Invisalign, work with appliances like rubber bands or bite pads to shift teeth and improve alignment. Severe cases might require surgical realignment of the jaw for the best results.