Can an Overbite Be Fixed?

At Dentistry On The Q, we have trained professionals that can find and treat misaligned jaws and teeth. One of the most common types of misalignment we see is an overbite. If you are experiencing an overbite, our team can provide you with a personalized treatment plan to correct your overbite and help you get a smile you are proud to show off.

What is an Overbite?

An overbite occurs when your upper teeth vertically overlap your bottom teeth when you are closing your jaw. While almost everyone will have a certain degree of overbite, when it is too large, it will be considered concerning and will need to be treated. An excessive overbite is known as a deep bite. In extreme cases, the top front teeth will overlap the bottom teeth entirely, which causes the patient’s bottom teeth to bite into the top of the mouth. 

The opposite can happen as well. When a patient lacks an overbite, it is known as an open bite. An open bite is where the top and bottom teeth do not come together at all. Having an excessive overbite could be related to the position of the teeth, known as a dental overbite. When your teeth are aligned properly, your jaw should be reset into the best position.

What Can Cause an Overbite?

Having an excessive overbite can be caused by many different factors, which can include:

• Genetics – Many deep bites are genetic and could not have been prevented. They are related to the size or shape of the teeth, or both. In most cases, the upper and lower jaw develop at different rates, which can leave a patient with an overlap.
• Oral habits – Having harmful oral habits like aggressive or prolonged thumb sucking can contribute greatly to an overbite. 
• Grinding or clenching your teeth – Patients who clench or grind their teeth may have super strong biting muscles, which can contribute to deepening the bite. 
• Ageing – As we age, our bite will naturally deepen. This means that having even a mild case of overbite can worsen with age. If you had orthodontic work done in the past, but no longer wear your retainer regularly, then your excessive overbite could come back. 
• Missing lower teeth – When you have lower teeth missing from the back of your mouth, whether it be from injury or decay, this will create a circumstance that is similar to having a shorter jaw and can lead to a deep bite. 

Why do Deep Bites need to be Treated?

When you have an excessive overbite it can lead to a variety of complications if not treated, for example:

• Increased risk of gum disease or tooth decay;
• Uneven enamel wear;
• Breathing disorders;
• Problems with chewing;
• Issues with speaking;
• Jaw or TMJ pain.

If you are looking to get your overbite treated, visit a family dentist in Etobicoke. At Dentistry On The Q, our team can provide you with more detailed information on your situation and provide treatments to help with your oral care needs. Book your first appointment today!