Treatment for an Overbite
Patients with an overbite or other forms of malocclusion can benefit from cosmetic dentistry treatments to improve the appearance of the smile at our Charlotte, NC practice. There are two types of overbites: horizontal and vertical.
A horizontal overbite, also referred to as an overjet, is characterized by protruding upper front teeth. A vertical overbite refers to the depth of the bite, that is, the vertical overlap of the upper teeth over the lower teeth.
Here, Drs. John M. Pinnix and George A. Betancourt discuss treatment for an overbite, including Invisalign, tooth bonding, and porcelain veneers.
What Causes an Overbite?
While vertical overbites are typically genetic in nature, horizontal overbites can be hereditary and environmental.
For example, early childhood habits and behaviors, such as tongue-thrusting, thumb-sucking, or prolonged pacifier use, can cause the upper front teeth to splay outward over time.
Otherwise, if you have family members who suffer from an overbite, you are far more likely to have the condition yourself.
Treatments for an Overbite
The treatment recommended for overbite depends entirely on the nature and severity of the issue. If an overbite is due to skeletal discrepancies, then oral surgery may be necessary to correct the issue.
However, if the teeth are simply out of alignment, then the problem may be addressed with cosmetic treatments. Mild overbites may be treated with tooth bonding or porcelain veneers, while more significant malocclusion will require orthodontics.
Invisalign
A popular option among our teen and adult patients, Invisalign straightens the teeth without the need for metal braces. Instead, this system moves the teeth gradually over time using a sequence of custom-made thermoplastic trays.
Patients with moderate to severe malocclusion can benefit from this type of treatment. Because the aligner trays are virtually invisible, others will never know you are undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Tooth Bonding
Mild cases of overbite may be addressed with tooth bonding. During this procedure, your dentist applies tooth-colored composite resin to the affected teeth. By slightly altering the size and shape of the teeth, bonding can make the them appear as though they are in alignment with one another.
Porcelain Veneers
Like tooth bonding, veneers can also give the illusion that the teeth are in proper alignment. However, while bonding involves the application of composite resin, porcelain veneers are custom-crafted fabrications that are affixed to the front surfaces of the teeth.
Generally, veneers can be placed in two office visits. During the first appointment, your doctor prepares the teeth and takes impressions of your bite. Once the final restorations have been fabricated, we will schedule you for a second appointment at which your doctor will bond them into place.
The Importance of Treating Overbites
Many patients assume that an overbite is simply an aesthetic issue. However, if the condition is directly affecting the health of your smile, it is important to address the problem as soon as possible. During a consultation at our practice, our doctors can let you know if treatment is recommended for you.
Contact Advanced Dentistry of Blakeney
If you are self-conscious about the appearance of your smile, consider what cosmetic dentistry can do for you. To learn more, schedule a visit with Dr. Pinnix or Dr. Betancourt. Call our office at (704) 543-1102 or contact us online anytime.
