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What Is An Overbite?

By January 30, 2024March 24th, 2024Walt Ortho Information, What's New

When reviewing possible orthodontic conditions, one common term that often comes up is ‘overbite.’ At Walt Orthodontics, we frequently encounter patients curious about what an overbite is and how it can be addressed. This article aims to demystify the concept of an overbite and explore the treatment options available.

 

What Does An Overbite Look Like?

An overbite is a dental condition where the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth. It is a type of malocclusion, which means the teeth are not aligned properly when the mouth is closed. Overbites can be vertical, where the top teeth overlap the bottom teeth more than usual (also called a deep bite), or horizontal, where the top teeth jut out in front of the bottom teeth (also called overjet).

 

Causes of Overbites

Several factors can contribute to the development of an overbite. These include:

1. Genetics: Like many dental conditions, genetics play a significant role in the development of an overbite. If parents have overbites, there’s a higher likelihood their children will too.

2. Habits in Childhood: Certain childhood habits like thumb sucking, prolonged use of a pacifier, or extensive bottle feeding can influence the development of an overbite.

3. Jaw Development Issues: Sometimes, issues in the development of the jaw bone can lead to an overbite. This can be due to genetics or external factors affecting jaw growth.

 

Impacts of an Overbite

An overbite can affect both oral health and aesthetics. If left untreated, it can lead to:

  • Difficulty in cleaning teeth properly, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
  • Jaw pain and temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ).
  • Challenges with speech and eating.
  • Self-esteem issues due to the appearance of the teeth.
  • Accelerated wear of teeth.

 

Treatment Options

The good news is that overbites can be effectively treated, and several options are available, depending on the severity and cause of the overbite:

1. Braces: The most common treatment for an overbite is braces, which slowly move the teeth into the correct position. Walt Orthodontics offers various braces options, including LightForce custom braces and clear aligners like Invisalign. We previously addressed the question about whether Invisalign can fix an overbite.

2. Surgery: In severe cases, especially when the overbite is due to jaw misalignment, orthognathic surgery may be recommended.

3. Removal of Teeth: Sometimes, removing one or more teeth can create the necessary space to realign the remaining teeth and correct an overbite.

4. Growth Modification Devices: These are typically used in children and teenagers to guide the proper growth of the jaw. We most often use a Carriere appliance.

 

Consultation and Personalized Treatment

Every overbite case is unique, and Dr. Walt believes in a personalized treatment approach. We invite you to schedule a consultation with our team, where we can assess your specific situation and recommend the most effective treatment plan. Visit our Contact Us page to book an appointment.

 

Conclusion

Understanding overbites is crucial in recognizing the need for orthodontic treatment. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and effective solutions for overbite correction. Our goal is to ensure every patient achieves not just a corrected smile but also long-term oral health.

For more detailed information on overbites and orthodontic health, the American Association of Orthodontists offers a wealth of resources and guides.

In-Person Consultation

Use our handy online scheduler below to choose the date and time that works best for your initial complimentary consultation appointment!

Please note that while initial orthodontic consultations are complimentary, if you recently completed orthodontic treatment or currently are in active appliances with another provider, seeking a replacement/repair for a retainer, or looking to schedule a second consult after your initial one there is a fee for the consultation. Please contact us for more information.

Alternatively, please contact our office directly by phone/text if you are trying to book multiple consultations at the same time or are seeking consultation further out than 12 weeks.

Please note – If none of the available times on our online scheduler work for you we do have other consultation times available. Please contact us directly for more information.

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When it comes to financing there’s no one size fits all solution. Likewise, there is no singular solution when it comes to financing. At LendCare, we get that and go deeper to understand your unique story and offer flexible options that work best for you, given your current financial situation. That means you get affordable financing, even if your credit is anything but top-tier.

Walt Orthodontics is pleased to offer interest-free payments up to 30 months. If you require payments over 30 months we are happy to offer the LendCare solution.

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DR. WALT’S DECISION TO BECOME AN ORTHODONTIST WAS INSPIRED BY HIS OWN DIRECT PERSONAL EXPERIENCE.

Dr. Walt received his dental (DDS) degree from the University of Western Ontario, graduating first in his class and receiving the Gold Medal as well as numerous awards recognizing his scholastic and clinical achievements, leadership and character. He then completed his orthodontic training at the University of Colorado, where he received both his Specialty Certificate and Master of Science Degree. During his residency, he was awarded the Rocky Mountain Orthodontics Scholarship for overall excellence.

After graduating from residency and opening Walt Orthodontics in 2013, Dr. Walt committed himself to applying his traditional orthodontic education into the digital world to improve clinical outcomes and patient experience. He currently serves as a Faculty Member, Key Opinion Leader, and Advisory Board Member for Align Technology which involves traveling around the world to teach other orthodontists about Invisalign. Being at the forefront of digital orthodontics, Dr. Walt was invited to be the first orthodontist in Canada to use custom LightForce braces. He also serves as an Orthodontic Coach/Mentor for other orthodontists looking to improve their knowledge of digital orthodontics.

In addition to practicing orthodontics, Dr. Walt is a “die-hard” Blue Jays fan and enjoys working out in his spare time.

DR. GROSSMAN STRIVES TO PROVIDE THE HIGHEST STANDARD OF ORTHODONTIC CARE FOR HER PATIENTS.

Dr. Stephanie Grossman pursued her dental degree in sunny South Florida at Nova Southeastern University. She graduated with honours, at the top of her class, and was inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi Honour Society. She then completed her orthodontic training at the University of Detroit Mercy, where she received both a Specialty Certificate in Orthodontics and a Master of Science degree. She is both a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada.

Dr. Grossman strives to provide the highest standard of orthodontic care for her patients. She attends numerous hours of continuing education and utilizes the latest advancements in orthodontics. Dr. Grossman is licensed to practice in both the United States and Canada.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Grossman enjoys spending time with her friends and family and traveling the world. She is a self-proclaimed foodie and loves trying new restaurants!

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