Overbites & Underbites

Overbites are characterized by the upper teeth extending (protruding) too far forward and/or the lower teeth not extending for enough (receding). This is sometimes called “buck teeth”.

Overbites can cause abnormal wearing of the teeth usually due to a lack of contact of the front teeth and excessive contact of the back teeth, inefficient chewing function and misalignment of jaw joints leading to TMJ (Temporomandibular joint dysfunction). This can lead to chronic headaches and face and neckpain. Teeth that are protruding are more susceptible to accident trauma and fracture, especially in young children.

To correct overbites in children or adolescents appliances can be used to restrain upper jaw growth and to develop the lower jaw and teeth into a more forward position. In this way, the upper and lower jaw will meet together for a great fit of the teeth. Also, the facial and dental appearance is enhanced to give you a great smile.

In growing children, functional appliances can be used in combination with orthodontic braces to achieve correction of the overbite. When facial growth is completed usually around 14 years of age in females and 16 years of age in males, other orthodontic treatment involving extractions of teeth or jaw surgery may be necessary to correct the overbite.

Underbites can be moderate to severe in nature. In general, underbites are where the lower jaw and teeth extend out in front of the upper front teeth. Underbites usually have very little or no contact at all of the front teeth. In moderate underbites, the front teeth bites edge to edge which induces forward jaw movements resulting in trauma and excessive wear on the front teeth. This can also cause excessive tooth mobility on the front teeth leading to periodontal disease such as gum recession and bone loss. Severe underbites result in tooth contact only on the back teeth. This results in compromised chewing and excessive wear on the back teeth.

Treatment of underbites if started early enough can prevent permanent damage to the teeth and gums. In severe underbites, jaw surgery may be required to reestablish proper contact if the teeth and jaws. Correction of underbites also results in improved lip posture and facial appearance.