The overbite is the most common dental disorder in children. The term describes an abnormal overlap of the upper teeth over the lower teeth. An overlap of three to five millimeters is considered normal, while an overlap greater than five millimeters is considered an overbite. When it comes to braces for overbites, there are a few important things to take into consideration.
What is the Difference Between an Overbite and an Overjet?
An overbite describes the vertical overlap of the upper teeth over the lower teeth, while an overjet describes the horizontal distance between the front teeth of the upper and lower jaws. In an overjet, the upper front teeth stick out way beyond the lower front teeth; in the worst cases, the top front teeth angle away from the lower teeth and can even make it hard for the patient to close their mouth properly.
Both conditions can be caused by dental problems or skeletal problems affecting the jaw. Patients with severe overbites caused by skeletal problems may need surgery, especially if they are adults. Most patients, however, can get aligners or braces for overbites.
What are Aligners?
Aligners are removable braces; Invisalign® is the best-known type. Aligners are transparent devices that the patient wears over their teeth for at least 22 hours every day. Like regular braces, the aligners work by gradually shifting the teeth into their proper positions and straightening them. If you are considering this option, we are proud to report that Dr. Lach is a top 1% provider for Invisalign® and the number one provider in Orlando for Invisalign®.
Regarding Braces for Overbites
Braces are the most common treatment for overbites. Treatment with braces is typically a two-stage process. During the first stage, the orthodontist’s goal is straightening the patient’s teeth; during the second, they correct the overbite. The orthodontist will use elastics during the second stage.
Metal braces are still the most common type of braces for overbites. They are very effective and have the added advantage of still being widely accepted. Furthermore, advances in technology have made them somewhat less visible that they used to be.
Damon braces are a variation of metal braces that have a slide mechanism that attaches wires to brackets. The slide mechanism serves the same purpose as the elastics in conventional braces and, thus, replaces them. Ceramic braces resemble the traditional metal braces, but they are made of ceramic alloys designed to be the same color as the patient’s teeth.
Make an appointment at Lach Orthodontic Specialists in Oviedo or Lake Nona to learn more about our available options for treating overbites. After your orthodontic treatment is complete, you can take advantage of our teeth whitening services to really perfect your smile. Contact us today to schedule your orthodontic appointment.