Overbite Teeth Braces

A type of malocclusion (misalignment), an overbite is where the upper front teeth extend beyond the lower front teeth. While some overlap is common, if the misalignment is 2 to 4 mm, it is considered an overbite. Cases that exceed 4 mm are called a deep overbite, whereas 9 mm and over is classed as severe.

If left untreated, this dental condition may lead to oral health issues such as tooth erosion and gum disease. Overbite teeth braces are the perfect solution – whether you opt for clear aligners or fixed wires, they help you to achieve a perfectly straight smile.

What Are The Causes Of Overbite?

Your overbite can be hereditary. This is because the size and shape of your jaw is largely influenced by your genetics. So, if you have family members with an overbite, you are more likely to have one.

Childhood habits also play a part in the formation of an overbite, including thumb sucking and extended dummy use. The pressure placed on the teeth and jaw may cause the teeth to shift out of alignment. If you also grind your teeth (bruxism) or bite your nails, an overbite can form.

Do I Need To Fix My Overbite?

Overbites, for many people, do not cause any issues or pain. Some on the other hand may experience side effects that impact their confidence and quality of life.

• Excessive wear on the tooth, which can lead to loss
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, causing jaw pain and headaches
• Difficulty chewing and biting
• Speech impediments
• Snoring
• Gum disease
• Visible asymmetry in the face

Treatment Option 1: Clear Aligners

Clear aligners a great way to quickly straighten your smile. Available at Smile White, the transparent, ultra-discreet trays move teeth without the help of wires.

With treatment times as little as four months or less, this treatment can provide rapid results. Something to note is that clear aligners are not available on the NHS – our prices vary between £1,895 and £3,795.

Treatment Option 2: Fixed Braces

Working similarly to clear aligners, fixed braces exert pressure on the teeth to move them gradually into their correct position. The average treatment time is 18-24 months; however, for those with more severe overbites, your treatment could last up to three years.

Prices for fixed braces vary greatly. After the age of 18, they are no longer available on the NHS, unless your dentist decides they are needed for health reasons.

Clear Aligners Vs. Fixed Braces

So, which treatment is best to fix my overbite? If you have a complex or severe overbite, fixed braces are ideal. They are very effective and widely available across the UK. On the other hand, if you are looking for quick results, opt for clear aligners. This treatment option also tends to be generally cheaper in price compared to fixed braces.

Something else to take into consideration is the aesthetic. Clear aligners are almost imperceptible in the mouth, whereas metal braces are less discreet. However, many fixed braces are now designed to be much sightlier, such as ceramic or lingual braces.

Finally, clear aligners require a lot of dedication and commitment from the patient. You are required to wear the aligners 20-22 hours of the day, removing the trays while you eat. As they are removable, you are more likely to damage or misplace your aligners. Comparatively, fixed braces are attached to teeth and cannot be removed without the help of your dentist.

Conclusion:

Teeth braces can fix your overbite and align your smile, no matter the severity of your case. Looking to quickly and discreetly address your misalignment? Choose Smile White clear aligners for a confidence-boosting transformation.