An overbite is a common tooth problem. It occurs when your teeth are not aligned, which causes your smile to appear crooked and awkward to others. Frequently, other problems can emerge from this imperfection such as difficulty chewing, pain or discomfort in the jaw, and headaches.
In this article, we will discuss the common signs and treatment of an overbite.
How Do You Know You Have an Overbite?
1. The Bottom Teeth Are Crooked
Look in the mirror and check your smile. If your bottom teeth appear crooked and your upper teeth are in line with the bottom teeth, it is a sign that you have an overbite. The bottom teeth will look out of place and will also be crooked.
2. Your Lower Teeth Are Constantly Touching Your Upper Teeth
If the bottom teeth constantly touch the upper teeth, then you also have an overbite. The overbite will also cause your teeth to be crowded together. When not corrected, this will cause a misaligned bite.
3. The Upper Teeth Are in Front of the Lower Teeth
If your upper and lower teeth are in front of each other, you have an overbite. It is likely that the upper teeth will push the lower teeth causing the upper teeth to be in front of the lower teeth when you smile.
4. You’re Experiencing Jaw Stiffness
When you have a severe case of overbite, it can cause you to have difficulty opening or closing your mouth. This can lead to problems with eating or chewing your food. In some cases, you will also hear a popping sound when you open or close your mouth.
What Should You Do If You Have an Overbite?
First off, if you suspect that you have an overbite, consult a dentist or orthodontist. They can assess the condition of your teeth and let you know if there is any problem.
An overbite can be easily corrected by undergoing orthodontic treatments. However, it is important that you see a dentist first to determine the severity of the condition. That way, it can be treated appropriately.
Depending on the severity, your dentist may advise you to invest in a good pair of orthodontic braces. You can also opt for a retainer. It is a relatively cheaper solution to correcting an overbite.
While treating an overbite is easy, early treatment is still ideal to prevent any complications. The best time to have an overbite corrected is before the age of 18.
Conclusion
Overbite is one of the most common teeth problems that you can have. Different people can experience different levels of severity. The good news is that it can be fixed. Consult your dentist for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Finally, it would help if you always take care of your teeth to avoid problems like this. Make it a habit to brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss them, and visit a dentist regularly.
If you are looking for a reliable dentist in Herndon, VA, to help treat your overbite, visit Galleria Dental Smiles. We provide Invisalign treatment to help correct misaligned or crooked teeth due to an overbite. Request a consultation today!
