What is OverJet

When the upper teeth stick out past your lower teeth, this is known as overjet. A common dental condition, overjet can be fixed with a variety of treatments, helping you to achieve a straight, aligned smile.

Skip to:

• Overjet: The Causes
• What’s The Difference Between Overjet & Overbite?
• Treatment Options
• Do I Need To Fix Overjet?
  

Overjet: The Causes

This form of malocclusion (misalignment) has multiple causes. For example, it may be hereditary. Childhood habits also play a role in how your jaw and mouth develops. If you used to suck your thumb growing up or used a dummy excessively, this continuous pressure on the teeth can lead to the development of an overjet.

Tongue thrust is another contributing factor. This is when the tongue presses too far forward in the mouth. Tongue thrusting may be caused by stress, poor swallowing habits and allergies.

What’s The Difference Between Overjet & Overbite?

Both are a type of malocclusion – however, there is a difference. This is simply the direction of the overlap.

• Overbite: A vertical misalignment where the upper front teeth overlap the bottom teeth more than normal.
• Overjet: A horizontal misalignment where the upper front teeth protrude outward and sit over the bottom teeth.

Treatment Options

Dependent on the severity of the overjet, your dentist will recommend different procedures.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are a great option for mild to moderate overjet cases. These thin, transparent trays gradually move teeth into their correct position, all while remaining ultra-discreet in the mouth. Plus, unlike braces, aligners can be removed before eating.

Fixed Braces

Braces for your teeth are generally used for more severe cases. It attaches a thin wire and small brackets to each of your teeth to correct overjet. Unlike clear aligners, they cannot be removed without the help of your dentist.

To aid the success of the treatment, some individuals with teeth crowding need to have a tooth extraction prior to having their braces fitted. Or you may need to wear elastics with your braces to help with the alignment of your jaw.

Jaw Surgery

Also known as orthognathic surgery, jaw surgery is often carried out when there is a large asymmetry between the upper and lower jaws. This treatment corrects your overjet and make the face appear more symmetrical.

Do I Need To Fix Overjet?

While many have no issues with their overjet and can live as normal, others may experience health issues, as well as a loss of confidence in their smile.

• Difficulty when biting and chewing
• Jaw pain
  
• Headaches
  
• Accidental tongue and cheek biting
  
• Dry mouth due to an inability to close lips properly
  
• Worn teeth

Conclusion:

Overjet is a common malocclusion found in childhood and adulthood. If you are looking to fix your overjet, book an appointment with a Smile White clinic to discuss your treatment options and perfect your smile.