Overbite Treatment In Jacksonville, FL

An overbite is a frequent dental condition where the upper front teeth overlap too much over the lower front teeth. While a slight overlap is normal, a severe overbite can lead to various oral health problems if not treated. This complete guide aims to provide insights into the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available for addressing overbites, empowering you to take charge of your dental health.

Close-up of a person smiling, clearly showing metal dental braces on their teeth and a noticeable overbite. This image was taken in Jacksonville, FL.

Defining Overbite vs Overjet: Common Dental Misalignments

It’s important to understand the difference between an overbite and an overjet. An overbite refers to the vertical overlap of the upper front teeth over the lower front teeth, while an overjet relates to the horizontal protrusion of the upper front teeth beyond the lower ones. Distinguishing between these two conditions is crucial for determining the proper treatment approach.

Causes of Severe Overjet and Overbite

Severe overjet and overbite can be caused by various factors, including:

Skeletal irregularities in the jaw structure

Misaligned teeth

Genetic predisposition

Childhood habits like thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use

Identifying the root causes is key to creating a personalized and effective treatment plan.

A woman with braces smiles and makes an "OK" hand gesture. She is wearing a white top and a ring on her finger. The background is white, highlighting confidence after addressing causes of severe overjet and overbite in Jacksonville FL.

Close-up of a person's slightly open mouth with light pink lips, displaying metal braces on their teeth and a visible overbite. This image is from Jacksonville, FL.

Signs and Symptoms of an Overbite

Early identification of an overbite is essential for effective treatment and prevention of complications. Be aware of these potential signs:

Significant overlap of upper and lower teeth

Upper teeth protruding excessively

Trouble closing the mouth

Facial asymmetry or jaw pain

If you’re concerned, schedule a free orthodontic consultation with our orthodontists at Bold Bite Orthodontics, Dr. Marty Greenberg and Dr. Trang Cao, for personalized evaluation and advice.

Potential Health Issues from Untreated Overbite

Neglecting an overbite can have serious consequences for your oral health and overall well-being. Some potential problems that may arise include:

Jaw pain and discomfort

TMJ disorders

Tooth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

Difficulty maintaining oral hygiene

Risk of tooth decay and gum disease

Speech difficulties

Negative impact on self-confidence

A person wearing blue gloves uses a dental instrument on a model of human teeth and gums that demonstrates an overbite. This scene is set in Jacksonville, FL.

Diagnosis and Assessment of Overbite Severity

During regular dental check-ups at Bold Bite Orthodontics in Jacksonville, FL, our experienced orthodontists, Dr. Marty Greenberg and Dr. Trang Cao, will assess the alignment of your teeth and measure the extent of the overbite. Early diagnosis and accurate assessment are critical for determining the most suitable treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

Treatment Methods to Fix an Overbite

Various treatment options are available to correct overbites, depending on the condition’s severity. At Bold Bite Orthodontics, we offer the following treatments:

Orthodontic solutions such as braces or clear aligners (Invisalign) to progressively align teeth and enhance bite alignment.

For more severe cases, surgical intervention might be suggested to reposition jaw bones for optimal outcomes.

Post-treatment, custom retainers are provided to maintain the corrected alignment and prevent teeth from reverting to their original positions.

Our team will help you determine the best treatment path tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

Close-up of a person's mouth with slightly parted lips, revealing metal braces on the upper teeth and a clear overbite. This image is from Jacksonville, FL.

Braces and Invisalign Clear Aligners

Braces effectively treat overbites by aligning teeth and adjusting jaw positions. Severe cases may require extractions or additional appliances. Clear aligners are a discreet option for mild to moderate cases, offering convenience and easy care.

Surgical Intervention

Surgical treatment for severe overbites caused by jaw irregularities involves repositioning the jawbone in conjunction with orthodontic care. This comprehensive approach ensures optimal alignment and bite correction.

Prevention and Early Intervention Strategies

Early intervention is crucial for preventing severe overbites and overjets. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a child’s first orthodontic visit by age 7. Breaking childhood habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting can also help prevent these issues.

A woman with long brown hair in a striped shirt smiles and points to her teeth with both index fingers, showcasing her overbite, against a plain white background in Jacksonville, FL.

Teenager with curly hair and braces showing an OK hand gesture, smiling confidently, and standing in front of a plain blue background—perfectly capturing the journey of correcting an overbite in Jacksonville FL.

The Importance of Choosing an Experienced Orthodontist

Selecting a qualified and experienced orthodontist is crucial for achieving the best results in treating overbites and overjets. At Bold Bite Orthodontics in Jacksonville FL, Dr. Marty Greenberg, Dr. Trang Cao and our team specialize in creating tailored treatment plans that align teeth, improve bite function, and enhance overall facial harmony. With our advanced training and expertise, we ensure effective, long-lasting results.

FAQ

Is it OK to have an overbite?

A minor overbite may not necessarily require treatment, as some overlap between the upper and lower teeth is considered normal. However, if the overbite is severe, with the lower teeth becoming significantly covered or hidden, it’s recommended to consult an orthodontist for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.

What causes an overbite?

Overbites can be caused by various factors, including genetic predisposition, certain childhood habits like thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use, speech issues, and the presence of extra teeth. These factors can influence the development and growth of the jaw, leading to an overbite.

How can an overbite be corrected?

Overbites can be corrected through several methods, depending on the severity of the condition. Orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners, combined with rubber bands and bite pads, can gradually realign the teeth and improve the bite. In more severe cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to realign the jaw and achieve optimal results.