Overbite: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Cost

An extensive overlap between the upper and lower front teeth is known as an overbite. Other names for it include 'buck teeth' and 'deep bite.' A normal bite is when the upper and lower front teeth meet at the same time. However, an overbite causes problems with chewing, speaking, and jaw pain because the upper front teeth cross the lower front teeth too far.

There are two main types of overbite: horizontal and vertical.

Overbite can be caused by a variety of factors, that may include;

• Genetics: Overbite can be inherited from parents, and certain genes may predispose a person to this condition.
• Childhood Habits: Habits such as thumb sucking or the use of pacifiers for an extended period of time can cause an overbite.
• Poor Oral Posture: Poor oral posture, such as mouth breathing, can lead to an overbite.
• Loss of Baby Teeth: The loss of baby teeth too early can result in a shift of the remaining teeth, causing an overbite.
• Improper Tooth Eruption: If the permanent teeth do not come in properly, it can lead to an overbite.
• Misaligned Jaw Development: Misaligned jaw development can cause the upper and lower jaws to grow in different directions, leading to an overbite.
• Orthodontic Problems: Orthodontic problems, such as missing or impacted teeth, can cause an overbite.

An overbite can cause a variety of symptoms that affect a person's oral health and quality of life. The following are some of the most common symptoms of overbite;

• Difficulty Biting and Chewing: Overbite can make it difficult to properly bite and chew food, leading to discomfort and digestive problems.
• Jaw Pain: Overbite can put extra pressure on the jaw joint (TMJ), causing pain and discomfort.
• Speech Difficulties: Overbite can affect a person's speech and make it difficult to articulate certain sounds properly.
• Tooth Wear: Overbite can lead to excessive wear on the front teeth, causing them to become short and rounded.
• Chipping of Teeth: Overbite can also cause the teeth to chip or break more easily.
• TMJ Disorder: TMJ disease, a condition that affects the jaw joint and produces pain, can be brought on by overbite.

There are a number of things that can make someone more likely to get an overbite. These include;

• Family History: Having a family history of overbite can increase a person's risk.
• Thumb Sucking or Pacifier Use: Prolonged use of a pacifier or thumb sucking during childhood can increase the risk of developing an overbite.
• Mouth Breathing: Mouth breathing can alter the development of the jaw and teeth, increasing the risk of overbite.
• Early Loss of Baby Teeth: Losing baby teeth too early can result in a shift of the remaining teeth, increasing the risk of overbite.
• Improper Tooth Eruption: If permanent teeth do not come in properly, it can increase the risk of overbite.
• Misaligned Jaw Development: Misaligned jaw development can increase the risk of overbite.
• Orthodontic Problems: Orthodontic problems, such as missing or impacted teeth, can increase the risk of overbite.

The severity of an overbite can be determined by measuring the width of the overbite and assessing its underlying cause. The explanation below provides a good understanding of the different types of overbite and their severity;

• Type of Overbite: Normal
• Width of Overbite (mm): 1 to 3 mm
• Cause: Usually dental
• Percentage Severity: 30%
• Requires Orthodontic Intervention: Possibly
• Type of Overbite: Deep
• Width of Overbite (mm): 4-8 mm
• Cause: Dental or Skeletal
• Percentage Severity: 50%
• Requires Orthodontic Intervention: Likely
• Type of Overbite: Severe
• Width of Overbite (mm): 9mm or more
• Cause: Dental or Skeletal
• Percentage Severity: 100%
• Requires Orthodontic Intervention: Yes

As the severity of the overbite increases, so does the likelihood of needing orthodontic intervention. It's crucial to treat the condition as soon as possible in order to achieve the best results.

An overjet and overbite are two distinct orthodontic conditions that are frequently mistaken with one another. The horizontal space between the top and bottom front teeth is referred to as an overjet. People sometimes refer to this as 'buck teeth.' On the other hand, vertical overlay of the top front teeth over the bottom front teeth is referred to as an overbite.

It is possible for a person to have both an overjet and an overbite, and in these cases, the overjet is often excessive. While both the conditions are related, they are distinct in their basic structure and require different treatments. An experienced orthodontist can treat both the conditions simultaneously to achieve optimal results.

Preventing an overbite can be challenging, as it often stems from genetic and growth factors that are beyond our control.

However, there are certain things you can do to reduce your risk of developing an overbite or minimize its severity;

• Regularly floss and brush your teeth, and go to the dentist for cleanings and examinations
• Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks
• Wear a mouthguard while participating in sports or other high-impact activities
• Consult an orthodontist or dentist if you notice any changes in your bite or teeth alignment

• Avoid excessive thumb-sucking, pacifier use, and prolonged bottle feeding in children
• Don't grind or clench your teeth, especially at night. This can be addressed with a night guard or other treatments
• Don't use your teeth as tools, such as biting your nails or opening packages with your teeth

Diagnosing overbite usually involves a comprehensive oral examination, including an assessment of the bite, tooth position, and jaw alignment by a dentist or orthodontist. They may take X-rays, digital scans, and photographs of your teeth and bite to get a better understanding of the underlying issues.

• An overbite may be determined by the following tests;
• Bite analysis
• A bite analysis is a diagnostic tool used to assess the way a person's upper and lower teeth come together when biting. The dentist or orthodontist will observe the patient's bite and determine if there are any problems, such as an overbite or underbite. A bite analysis can also be used to determine whether orthodontic treatment is necessary and to determine the position of the jaw and teeth.Dental X-rays
• This is an essential diagnostic tool for assessing a patient's oral health and identifying the root of any dental issues. Dental X-rays can provide detailed images of the teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures, which can help the dentist or orthodontist identify any issues that may be contributing to an overbite.Orthodontic models
• Orthodontic models are physical replicas of a patient's teeth and jaws. They can be made from dental impressions and used to study the patient's bite and determine the best course of treatment. Orthodontic models can also be used to plan and design orthodontic appliances, such as braces or clear aligners.Panoramic X-rays
• A panoramic X-ray is a type of dental X-ray that provides a broad, detailed view of the patient's mouth and jaw. This type of X-ray is useful for evaluating the entire jaw and dental arch and can help the dentist or orthodontist identify any issues that may be contributing to an overbite. Panoramic X-rays can also be used to assess the growth and development of the jaw and teeth and determine the need for orthodontic treatment.
• Your doctor may also ask about your medical and dental history, as well as any symptoms you may be experiencing. With this knowledge, they can identify the kind and degree of the overbite and create a treatment strategy.

Several issues, such as the following, can result from an overbite;

• Pain and discomfort in the jaw, neck, and face
• Tooth sensitivity and damage
• Difficulty speaking, eating, and swallowing
• Psychological and emotional impact from self-consciousness about appearance
• Jaw joint problems (TMJ)
• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)
• Increased chance of dental decay and gum disease
• Speech impediments

While home remedies can help alleviate some of the symptoms of an overbite, they cannot correct the underlying issues. Here are some home remedies to help relieve discomfort and improve oral health:

• Saltwater rinse: rinse your mouth with saltwater several times a day to reduce inflammation and promote healing
• Warm compresses: apply warm compresses to your jaw to relieve pain and tension
• Ice packs: apply ice packs to your jaw to reduce swelling and discomfort
• Take care of Oral hygiene: maintain proper oral hygiene and limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks
• Do not promote: excessive thumb-sucking, pacifier use, and prolonged bottle feeding in children
• Use an orthopedic pillow: to reduce tension on the jaw while sleeping

To support oral health and overall well-being, it's important to eat a balanced diet that includes;

• Fruits and vegetables: they are rich in vitamins and minerals that support oral health
• Dairy products: milk, cheese, and yogurt are excellent dairy items that are calcium-rich, promoting strong teeth and bones
• Whole grains: provide essential vitamins and minerals for overall health and well-being
• Lean proteins: fish, chicken, and lean meats provide essential nutrients for oral health.
• Nuts and Seeds: almonds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, peanut, hazelnut for they are rich in magnesium
• Chewing gum: It is sugar-free and promotes saliva production

To avoid exacerbating symptoms of an overbite and promoting optimal oral health, it's best to limit or avoid foods and drinks that are;

• High in sugar: sugary drinks and snacks such as candy, and fruit juice can contribute to tooth decay
• High in acid: acidic foods and drinks such as soda, vinegar, and alcohol can erode enamel and increase tooth sensitivity
• Sticky or chewy: these foods such as bread and dried fruit can get stuck in teeth and contribute to tooth decay
• Hard or crunchy: these foods such as ice and popcorn can put pressure on the jaw and exacerbate symptoms of an overbite
• Tobacco: Chewing tobacco can also contribute to tooth decay

The underlying cause and severity of an overbite determine the appropriate course of treatment. Some common treatments include orthodontic treatment, surgery, and medications. Here are some of the remedies that could be suggested;

Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment is the most common method used to correct overbites. To reposition the teeth into a more acceptable position, braces or transparent aligners are used. Depending on the severity of the overbite and the patient's response to treatment, the course of treatment may last anywhere from six months to two years.

Braces: Traditional metal braces use brackets and wires to apply pressure to the teeth and slowly move them into the correct position.

Contrarily, clear aligners are made-to-order trays that fit over the teeth and are switched out every two weeks as the teeth gradually shift.

Jaw Surgery

In more severe cases of overbite, jaw surgery may be necessary to correct the bite and reposition the jaw. Although this technique is more intrusive and needs a longer recovery period, it may produce a more long-lasting recovery.

Combination Treatment

In some cases, a combination of orthodontic treatment and jaw surgery may be necessary to achieve the desired result. This can be recommended when the overbite is caused by both dental and skeletal issues.

Behavioral Modification

Changing one's behavior is another way to stop overbites. This involves changes in habits that may be contributing to the overbite, such as thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, or nail-biting.

Retainer Use

After orthodontic treatment, the use of a retainer is often recommended to help maintain the new position of the teeth. Retainers can be worn full-time for a period of time, then gradually phased out to nighttime-only wear.

For overbite treatment, it is important to consult a specialist. An orthodontist or a maxillofacial surgeon would be the best doctors to consult for overbite. An orthodontist is a specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating bite problems, such as overbites. On the other hand, a maxillofacial surgeon specializes in treating complex jaw and facial problems, and may be required in cases of severe overbites.

The discomfort and swelling that are caused by overbite may be treated with medication. Anti-inflammatory medications and painkillers might be suggested.

Depending on the type of treatment used and the severity of the illness, the recovery period for overbite treatment varies. Orthodontic treatment may take several months to several years, while surgery may require a few weeks to several months of recovery time.

The results of overbite treatment can be permanent, but in some cases, the condition may return over time. Maintaining the effects of the therapy might be facilitated by routine dental exams and good oral hygiene habits.

Anyone experiencing an overbite is eligible for treatment. Treatment for overbite can help children, teenagers, and adults alike.

There may be certain medical conditions that make someone ineligible for overbite treatment. An orthodontist or dentist can evaluate a person's medical history to determine their eligibility for treatment.

After undergoing overbite treatment, it's important to follow some guidelines to ensure a successful recovery and prevent any potential complications. Here are some post-treatment guidelines to follow;

• Follow instructions from your orthodontist: Follow the advice of your orthodontist: After the treatment, your orthodontist will provide you detailed instructions on how to take care of your teeth and mouth. To guarantee proper recovery and avoid any issues, be sure to strictly adhere to following guidelines
• Keep your mouth clean: Brush and floss your teeth regularly to remove any plaque or food particles that can cause infections. Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and promote healing
• Avoid hard, crunchy or chewy foods: Stay away from hard, crunchy or chewy foods for a few days after the treatment to avoid any damage to the teeth and gums. Stick to soft foods like scrambled eggs, soup, and pudding
• Wear protective gear if necessary: If your orthodontist recommends wearing a mouthguard or other protective gear, make sure to wear it as directed to protect your teeth and mouth
• Attend follow-up appointments: It's important to attend your follow-up appointments as scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure that the treatment is working as expected. If necessary, your orthodontist may need to modify the recommended course of action
• Avoid smoking or using straws: Smoking might delay recovery and raise the possibility of problems. Similarly, using straws can put extra pressure on the teeth and gums, which can also slow down the healing process.

By following these post-treatment guidelines, you can help ensure a successful recovery from overbite treatment and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile.

On average, orthodontic treatment can cost anywhere from 20,000 to 1,00,000 rupees. The price of treatment of overbites in India goes up to Rs. 2 lakhs or more depending upon the type of treatment, the severity of the condition, and the location of the clinic.

Side-effects of overbite treatment may include;

• Pain
• Swelling
• Discomfort

There may also be more severe adverse effects, such as;

• Infection
• Nerve damage

An orthodontist or dentist can discuss the potential side-effects of overbite treatment before starting the treatment.

The outcome of overbite treatment varies based on several factors, including the severity of the overbite, the underlying cause, and the type of treatment used. In many cases, overbite treatment can improve the appearance of the teeth and bite, leading to improved oral health and self-esteem.

However, it is important to maintain proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups to ensure the long-term success of the treatment. Additionally, orthodontic treatment may need to be adjusted or readjusted over time as the teeth and jaws continue to develop. It's crucial to follow your orthodontist's recommendations to ensure the best outcome.