If your top teeth stick out further than they should, you’re not alone. Overbites are one of the most common dental concerns, and the good news is, they’re treatable.
This guide will help you understand how overbites are fixed, what treatments are available, and what to expect during your journey to a more balanced bite.
Whether you’re considering braces, clear aligners, or exploring other options, knowing what causes an overbite and how to correct it is the first step to a healthier smile. At The Tooth Experience in Edmond, we’re here to help you feel confident every step of the way.
What Is an Overbite?
An overbite happens when your upper front teeth overlap your lower front teeth more than normal. This can be mild or very noticeable and may affect how you bite, chew, and even speak.
Different types of overbites exist, and they can have several causes and health effects you should know.
Types of Overbites
There are two main types of overbites: normal overbite and excessive overbite (also called deep bite).
A normal overbite means your upper teeth slightly cover your lower teeth. This is common and usually not a problem.
An excessive overbite happens when the top teeth cover too much of the lower teeth or even the gums. This can cause problems with jaw movement and tooth wear.
Open bite is another related issue where the upper and lower teeth don’t touch when you close your mouth. Though less common, it can affect chewing and speech.
Knowing which type you have helps guide how your dentist or orthodontist at The Tooth Experience will help fix it.
Common Causes of Overbites
Overbites often come from genetics, meaning they run in families. If your parents had an overbite, you might have one too.
Other causes include:
- Thumb sucking or pacifier use during childhood
- Tongue thrusting habits
- Teeth crowding or missing teeth
- Abnormal jaw growth or alignment problems
Sometimes, overbites develop over time if these issues aren’t treated early. That’s why kids and adults alike benefit from regular dental checkups to spot these signs early.
Potential Health Impacts
An overbite can cause more than just cosmetic worries. When untreated, an excessive overbite may lead to:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Tooth wear and enamel damage
- Difficulty chewing or biting food properly
- Speech difficulties
- Gum irritation or damage
If you notice these signs or are worried about your smile, professional care can help prevent these issues.
Diagnosis and Assessment
To fix an overbite, the first step is understanding how serious it is and what effects it has on your mouth. This means looking closely at how your teeth line up and checking if any damage or discomfort is happening.
The right diagnosis helps your dentist choose the best treatment for you.
Identifying Symptoms
If your upper front teeth cover your lower teeth more than usual, you might have an overbite. You can notice this by looking carefully in the mirror or feeling your bite when you close your mouth.
Signs include uneven wear on your teeth and sometimes jaw pain or difficulty chewing. Other symptoms to watch for are tooth erosion, which happens when the teeth rub against each other too much.
You might also notice speech challenges or discomfort in your jaw joint. These problems can get worse if the overbite is left untreated.
How Dentists Evaluate Overbites
Your dentist at The Tooth Experience will start with a detailed exam. They will check how your teeth meet and how your jaw moves.
They might take digital x-rays or 3D scans to see all parts of your bite clearly. This helps spot problems that you can’t see, like uneven bone structure or tooth positioning.
Your dentist will also ask about any pain or issues you feel. This full picture guides them in suggesting options like braces, aligners, or other treatments to fix your overbite safely and comfortably.
Braces for Overbite Correction
Fixing an overbite often starts with braces, which gently move your teeth into the right position. Different types of braces can be used depending on what fits your lifestyle and how severe your overbite is.
The time it takes to see results also varies with the treatment method and your unique case.
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most common choice for overbite correction. They use metal brackets and wires that apply steady pressure to shift teeth over time.
These braces are very effective for correcting even serious overbites. You will visit your orthodontist regularly to adjust the wires.
Those visits keep your treatment on track. Metal braces are durable and tend to work faster than other options.
However, they are more visible when you smile. If you want a reliable, proven method, metal braces are a strong option.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work like metal ones but use tooth-colored or clear brackets. This makes them less noticeable while still helping correct your overbite.
Ceramic braces are a popular choice if you want a more discreet option. These braces do need gentle care since the ceramic material is more fragile.
Avoid hard or sticky foods to protect them. Ceramic braces may take a little longer to correct an overbite compared to metal ones because they apply gentler pressure.
You can expect a balance between effectiveness and appearance with ceramic braces. They fit well if you want the benefits of braces but prefer a subtler look.
Treatment Duration
How long braces take to fix an overbite depends on several things like its severity and your age. On average, most people wear braces between 18 months and 3 years.
Minor overbites might require less time, while more significant issues take longer to correct. Your orthodontist will create a personalized timeline based on your needs.
Regular checkups and following care instructions help speed up treatment. At The Tooth Experience, we make sure you understand each step to keep your progress steady and comfortable.
Clear Aligners for Overbite Treatment
Clear aligners offer a modern way to fix overbites by gently moving your teeth into better positions. They work without metal braces and can fit your lifestyle with less hassle.
You’ll find the process comfortable, discreet, and designed to fit your unique needs.
How Clear Aligners Work
Clear aligners use a series of custom-made trays that fit snugly over your teeth. Each set gently pushes your teeth into place over a few weeks.
You’ll switch to a new set regularly until your overbite improves. The process starts with a 3D scan to create aligners just for you.
Aligners must be worn about 22 hours a day to work well. Removing them for eating and cleaning keeps your teeth healthy during treatment.
They work best for mild to moderate overbites caused by tooth position. Severe jaw misalignment might need more advanced care.
Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign, a popular brand of clear aligners, offers a few key advantages if you want to fix your overbite without traditional braces.
- Almost invisible: Clear aligners are hard to notice.
- Comfortable: No metal wires or brackets to poke your mouth.
- Removable: Take them out when eating or brushing.
- Improved hygiene: Easier to keep your teeth clean.
- Predictable results: Advanced software maps out your treatment.
These benefits make Invisalign a great option for many people.
Suitability of Clear Aligners
Not all overbites can be fixed with clear aligners alone. If your overbite is caused mainly by crooked teeth, aligners usually do the job well.
However, if your overbite is due to jaw bone issues, like a skeletal overbite, you might need other treatments first. Sometimes surgery or braces will be part of the plan.
Your dentist will evaluate your bite, teeth, and jaw to decide if clear aligners are right for you. Commitment is key—wearing the aligners as directed will affect the success of your treatment.
If you want a modern, comfortable way to correct your bite, clear aligners might be the answer.
Other Orthodontic Appliances
Some orthodontic appliances work by gently adjusting your bite in ways that braces alone might not. These help widen your upper jaw, keep your teeth in place after treatment, or fine-tune your bite with small devices.
Using these tools properly can improve your results and comfort during treatment.
Palatal Expanders
A palatal expander gently widens the roof of your mouth. This is helpful if your upper jaw is too narrow, which can cause or worsen an overbite.
Expanding your palate makes more room for your teeth to fit properly. You wear the expander for several months, and it applies light pressure to slowly move the bones apart.
This helps balance your bite and prevents crowding. It is usually fixed to your upper molars, so it works all the time, even when you’re not thinking about it.
Retainers for Bite Correction
Retainers are often used after braces to keep your teeth from moving back to their old spots. But some types of retainers can also help with mild bite corrections.
They work by holding your teeth and jaw in a better position while your bones settle. You might wear a removable retainer or one that’s fixed behind your teeth.
Your orthodontist will tell you how long and when to use it. Using retainers exactly as directed helps maintain your new bite and protects your investment in your smile.
Elastics and Rubber Bands
Elastic bands are small rubber bands that connect braces on your upper and lower teeth. They apply steady pressure to move your jaw into a better position and fix overbites.
You’ll need to change these bands every day because they lose strength. Putting them on your braces as your orthodontist shows you is important.
While they might feel a bit tight at first, using them consistently helps speed up your treatment and improves your bite.
Surgical Options for Severe Overbites
When an overbite is severe, simple braces might not be enough to fix the problem. Surgery can help realign your jaw and improve how your teeth fit together, making it easier to eat, speak, and smile comfortably.
This involves careful evaluation and a step-by-step process to ensure the best results for your health and appearance.
When Surgery Is Needed
Surgery is usually recommended when your overbite is caused by jaw misalignment that braces or aligners alone can’t fix. You might notice problems like jaw pain, trouble chewing, or speech difficulties.
If your upper and lower jaws are seriously out of balance, surgery could be the right choice. Your dentist or orthodontist will check your jaw structure and bite with scans and X-rays.
This helps decide if surgery is needed. Sometimes, surgery is combined with braces for the best outcome.
Jaw Surgery Process
Jaw surgery, called orthognathic surgery, reshapes your jaw bones to improve alignment. It usually happens under general anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure.
The surgeon will carefully cut and reposition your jaws. After the jaw is moved, your surgeon will use plates and screws to hold bones in place while they heal.
Surgery can take a few hours, depending on the complexity of your case. Your orthodontist will help guide your teeth into the correct position after surgery using braces or other devices.
Recovery and Results
Recovery can take several weeks. You will likely experience some swelling and discomfort, but pain can be managed with medication.
Eating soft foods and following care instructions is important during this time. You’ll see gradual improvements in your bite, jaw function, and facial balance.
Regular follow-ups at The Tooth Experience will help track your healing and progress. Most patients find the long-term benefits—like better chewing, speaking, and a more confident smile—well worth the recovery period.
Overbite Treatment for Different Age Groups
Treatment for overbites varies a lot depending on your age and how the teeth or jaws have developed. Some treatments are designed to work best while you’re still growing, while others focus on shifting teeth or adjusting jaw alignment in adults.
Children and Teens
For kids and teens, early treatment is a big advantage. Since the jaws are still growing, orthodontists can guide this growth to fix or reduce the overbite more easily.
Common treatments include braces, which use metal brackets and wires to gently move teeth over time. Another option is using expanders or growth appliances that help reshape the jaw, especially with skeletal overbites.
In some cases, using clear aligners like Invisalign can be a good choice. These are less visible and easier to clean but work best for mild to moderate overbites.
You’ll want to address an overbite early to avoid more complicated problems later, like jaw pain or worn teeth. The Tooth Experience in Edmond offers personalized plans that prioritize your comfort and results during these key growing years.
Adults
As an adult, your jaws are fully developed, so treatment focuses mainly on moving teeth rather than changing jaw shape. Traditional braces remain a reliable choice for fixing most overbites.
Clear aligners are also popular with adults because they’re nearly invisible and fit well with busy lifestyles. However, more severe overbites might require orthognathic surgery to reposition the jaw alongside braces.
Your treatment time may be longer as adult bone is denser, but technology has made the process more comfortable and effective than before.
At The Tooth Experience, you’ll find modern solutions and a supportive environment that helps you feel confident and cared for every step of the way.
Life After Overbite Correction
Fixing your overbite is just one step toward better oral health and confidence. After treatment, taking care of your teeth and maintaining the changes will help your smile stay healthy and beautiful for years.
Aftercare and Retention
After your braces or Invisalign come off, you’ll need to wear a retainer. Retainers keep your teeth in the right place while your mouth adjusts.
Your orthodontist will tell you how long and how often to wear it. It’s important to clean your retainer daily to avoid bacteria buildup.
Avoid eating hard or sticky foods that could damage your retainer or teeth. You might notice mild soreness or tightness in the beginning, but this usually goes away.
Keep up with regular dental checkups so your dentist can watch your bite and overall oral health. If you feel any discomfort or notice shifting teeth, contact your dental provider right away.
Long-Term Results
Once your overbite is corrected—and with good aftercare—your teeth should stay properly aligned. A stable bite helps with chewing, speaking, and avoids extra wear on your teeth.
Some small changes over time are normal, but major shifts can be prevented with proper retainer use. Protecting your investment also means practicing good oral hygiene every day.
How to Prevent Overbite Recurrence
Keeping your smile aligned after overbite treatment takes commitment. You’ll want to maintain good habits and visit your dentist regularly.
These two steps help keep your bite healthy and stop problems from coming back.
Healthy Oral Habits
Your daily habits affect your bite more than you might think. Avoid nail biting, chewing on pens, or pushing your tongue against your teeth.
These actions can slowly push your teeth out of place again. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to keep your gums and teeth strong.
Healthy gums help hold your teeth steady. Also, if you grind your teeth, ask your dentist about a night guard.
Grinding can move your teeth and cause your overbite to come back. Stick to these habits to protect your smile from shifting after treatment.
Regular Check-Ups
Going to your dentist regularly is key to stopping your overbite from returning. Your dentist can spot small changes before they become big problems.
During visits, your dentist will check how your teeth and jaws line up. They can recommend adjustments or retainer use if needed.
Follow their advice closely to keep your bite on track. At The Tooth Experience, we offer easy, family-friendly check-ups close to Edmond.
We’ll help you stay ahead of any issues with gentle care and modern technology. Regular visits give you a clear plan to keep your smile healthy long-term.
Choosing the Right Treatment for You
Choosing how to fix your overbite depends on a few key factors. These include how severe your overbite is, your age, and whether the issue is with your teeth or jawbone.
Your dentist will help you figure out the best option based on these details. Common treatments include braces, which move your teeth slowly over time.
Braces work for most ages and can handle mild to severe cases. Another popular choice is Invisalign, clear aligners that are less noticeable but effective for mild to moderate overbites.
In some cases, especially when the overbite is caused by the shape of your jaw, surgery might be needed. This is usually for adults or severe problems that braces alone can’t fix.
Here’s a quick look at options you might hear about:
| Treatment | Best for | Notes |
| Braces | Most ages & severities | Visible but effective |
| Invisalign | Mild to moderate cases | Clear and removable |
| Surgery | Severe jaw issues | Requires recovery time |
| Growth devices | Kids & teens | Helps shape jaw during growth |
Lasting Confidence Starts With a Balanced Bite
Fixing an overbite does more than improve your smile — it can relieve jaw discomfort, protect your teeth from wear, and help you feel more confident in daily life. The right treatment depends on your needs, but whether it’s braces, aligners, or a combination of approaches, solutions are available and effective.
Making an appointment is the first step to understanding your options and starting the care you deserve. At The Tooth Experience, our team in Edmond is here to guide you with caring expertise and personalized care, every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fixing an overbite usually involves treatments targeting teeth and jaw alignment. The time it takes and the methods used depend on the severity of the overbite and your age.
Understanding causes and the risks of leaving an overbite untreated can help you make the right choices.
What are the most effective treatments for correcting an overbite?
Braces are the most common and effective treatment for overbites. Clear aligners, like Invisalign, can work well for mild to moderate cases.
Severe overbites may require jaw surgery combined with orthodontic treatment to fix underlying jaw alignment.
Can adults successfully get their overbite corrected, and if so, how?
Yes, adults can correct overbites. Clear aligners or braces are often used, depending on the case. For serious problems, surgery may be necessary. Your dentist at The Tooth Experience can guide you through the best options for your situation.
What are the consequences of not addressing a severe overbite?
A severe overbite can cause jaw pain, headaches, and worn teeth. It might also lead to difficulty chewing or speaking properly. Over time, it can worsen, making treatment more complicated and expensive.
How long does it typically take to fix an overbite with braces?
Fixing an overbite with braces usually takes about 18 to 24 months. The exact time depends on how severe the overbite is and your body’s response to treatment. Regular visits to your orthodontist will keep the process on track.
Are there any natural methods to reduce the severity of an overbite?
Natural methods like exercises or good oral hygiene do not fix an overbite. They may help your overall oral health but cannot change jaw structure or tooth position. Professional treatment is usually needed to correct bite issues.
What causes an overbite to develop in the first place?
Overbites often develop due to genetics, childhood habits like thumb sucking, or delayed loss of baby teeth. Jaw growth issues or misaligned teeth can also cause an overbite to form over time.
