Do you know the difference between overbite vs underbite in San Antonio, TX? These are common bite issues that may cause more than just changes in appearance. Poor jaw alignment can cause chronic pain, like TMJ pain or headaches.
What Are Overbites and Underbites?
An overbite happens when your upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth too much. With an underbite, the lower jaw pushes forward, sticking out farther than the upper jaw. Both affect the way your teeth fit together, or your bite function.
Causes of Overbite and Underbite
Bite problems like overbites and underbites happen for many reasons. Here are four common ones:
- Childhood Habits
Thumb sucking, extended pacifier use, and tongue thrusting can change jaw development and lead to poor tooth alignment. - Genetics
Traits like crowding, uneven jaws, or spacing issues are often inherited. - Diet
Eating only soft food doesn’t challenge the jaw enough to grow properly. Hard and crunchy foods, like apples and nuts, promote healthy jaw growth. - Missed Early Treatment
Skipping early checkups for kids may allow bite misalignment to worsen. Simple tools like expanders or retainers can guide jaw growth, preventing the need for surgery.
Why Fix Bite Issues?
Fixing bite problems improves your smile and benefits your health. Left untreated, bite issues may lead to:
- Jaw Pain or TMJ Disorders: Misaligned teeth strain the temporomandibular joint, leading to pain, clicking sounds, or headaches.
- Chewing Problems: Poor bite function makes eating uncomfortable and tiring.
- Speech Troubles: Bite misalignment can make it hard to say certain sounds like “s” or “th.”
- Worn or Damaged Teeth: Uneven pressure from bite disorders can wear down enamel, causing sensitivity or chipping.
- Airway Problems: Severe cases impact breathing, leading to snoring or sleep apnea.
Correcting these problems strengthens your oral health and helps you live more comfortably.
Treatment Options at Fiesta Orthodontics
At Fiesta Orthodontics, we offer customized treatment plans to address different types of bite alignment problems, from mild spacing issues to severe malocclusion. Options include:
Braces
Braces use wires, brackets, and elastics to gradually shift teeth into better positions. They remain one of the most effective ways to treat crossbites, overbites, underbites, and crowding.
Clear Aligners (Invisalign)
For a nearly invisible solution, aligners like Invisalign provide removable trays to correct bite misalignment. They can handle mild to moderate cases such as overjet or gaps. Patients like aligners because they are easy to clean and don’t require wires. According to Dr. Leonardo Koerich, a patient-focused orthodontist in Charlotte, NC, clear aligners are a good choice if you want a less visible way to fix your bite.
Orthodontic Appliances
For growing patients, appliances like expanders, bite turbos, or headgear guide jaw growth and alignment. Starting early reduces the need for surgeries or extractions later. As Dr. Jared Gianquinto, a board-certified orthodontist in Bakersfield and Tehachapi, CA, notes, appliances like expanders and bite correctors are particularly effective for younger patients while their jaws are still growing.
Jaw Surgery
For complex cases, jaw surgery (called orthognathic surgery) may be needed. This repositions the jaws for improved bite function and facial aesthetics. Surgery is often followed by braces or aligners for fine adjustments.
Benefits of Bite Correction
Treating bite issues offers several benefits that go beyond appearance:
- Improved Chewing: Proper alignment makes it easier and more efficient to eat.
- Better Jaw Function: With balanced teeth, the jaw moves without strain, easing TMJ pain.
- Protects Teeth: Correct bite patterns reduce uneven tooth wear, preventing enamel damage.
- Boosts Confidence: A healthy smile improves self-esteem and enhances your facial aesthetics.
- Simplifies Dental Hygiene: Aligned teeth are easier to brush and floss, supporting long-term oral health.
Cost of Overbite & Underbite Treatment in San Antonio, TX
The cost to fix an overbite or underbite is different for each patient. Your price depends on how severe your bite is and what type of care works best for you.
Mild bite problems are often treated with braces or clear aligners. These treatments usually cost between $3,500 and $7,500.
Retention and Maintenance
After completing your bite correction plan, it’s essential to maintain your results. The retention phase helps keep your teeth in their new position:
- Wear Retainers: Retainers prevent your teeth from shifting out of alignment.
- Follow Cleaning Instructions: Practice good dental hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.
- Regular Checkups: Ongoing orthodontic evaluation ensures long-term success.
Why Choose Fiesta Orthodontics?
Families across San Antonio trust Fiesta Orthodontics for personalized care in a welcoming environment. Here’s what makes us unique:
- Advanced Technology: We use digital X-rays, scans, and impressions for precise diagnoses.
- Custom Treatment Process: Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific needs, with options to suit your lifestyle.
- Affordable Financing Options: We offer flexible payment plans, working with most insurance providers to make care accessible.
Ready to Fix Your Bite?
Bite problems like overbites, underbites, and crossbites can cause discomfort and low confidence, but they’re treatable. At Fiesta Orthodontics in San Antonio, TX, we focus on creating customized care plans to improve facial aesthetics, fix jaw alignment, and give you a smile you’ll love.
Schedule your consultation today and get started on your journey toward better oral health and a functional smile!
About the Authors
Dr. Fateh Arslan – Orthodontist in San Antonio, TX
Dr. Jared Gianquinto – Orthodontist in Bakersfield and Tehachapi, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should overbites be corrected?
It is best to treat overbites in childhood or early teens, often between ages 7 and 14. At this age, the jaw and teeth are still growing, so treatment works faster. But overbites can be fixed at any age. The best step is to see an orthodontist, who can check your bite and tell you when to start.
Does overbite cause chubby cheeks?
No, an overbite does not cause chubby cheeks. It only affects how your teeth line up, not your face shape. Cheek fullness comes from genetics, weight, or face structure. Everyone’s face is different, and full cheeks are normal for many people.
How to fix overbite completely?
The best way to fix an overbite is to see an orthodontist. They may suggest braces or clear aligners to move your teeth. Severe overbites might need jaw surgery. Starting treatment early works best, but adults can get good results too. With time and care, you can get a healthy, straight smile.
