How Do Dentists Fix an Overbite/Underbite?
It’s quite common to have misaligned teeth and a bite that doesn’t line up. Sometimes your mouth can be too small for your teeth and they become overly crowded. In several cases, a person’s upper and lower jaw bones aren’t the same size or are misaligned.
Whatever the underlying reason, misalignments like an overbite or an underbite can cause a variety of issues, such as popping and pain in the jaw, sore facial muscles, speech difficulties, problems properly chewing, and an increased risk of decay, cavities, and broken teeth. Read on to learn about treatment options for an overbite or underbite!
Orthodontic Consultation
When it comes to any type of misalignment, including for an overbite or underbite, it’s best to visit a dental professional for an orthodontic consultation. A visual examination and dental X-rays will be needed to determine the cause of your misalignment and which treatment will be the most beneficial for your specific bite issue. Additionally, underlying oral health issues (such as tooth decay, gum disease, infection, or bone loss) will need to be addressed before proceeding with any orthodontic treatment.
Treatment Options
Treatment for each patient’s unique situation will entirely depend on the severity of their bite misalignment, in addition to their oral health history, budget, and smile goals. Together, you and our expert dentists can find a permanent solution for your overbite or underbite.
- Jaw Surgery
- Traditional Braces
- Clear Retainers
For very complex and severe cases, jaw surgery is required to correct an overbite or underbite. Keep in mind that this is more of a last resort option, as conservative treatments will be considered first.
Metal or ceramic braces under the supervision of an orthodontist may be the best solution for you, since braces are an effective treatment for a wide range of mild to severe alignment issues, especially if your jaw needs correction.
However, if your misalignment is only mild to moderate, you may qualify for clear aligner therapy. Here at Three Creek Dentistry, we offer both Invisalign® and ClearCorrect®. These smooth plastic retainers are clear and virtually undetectable. Moreover, they are relatively easy to care for since you remove them when you clean your teeth, drink anything other than water, and eat.
Consult with Our Team!
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, whether due to overcrowding, gapping, or an misaligned bite, schedule a consultation here at Three Creek Dentistry. We can help direct you toward the best treatment option for your dental needs. We look forward to hearing from you.