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Overbite in San Antonio TX: Causes, Consequences, and Treatment Strategies

Profile of a smiling person with overbite showcasing braces on their teeth, subtly correcting an overbite against a crisp white background in San Antonio, TX
An overbite happens when the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth. While some overlap is considered normal, a more pronounced overbite can result in various oral health problems if left untreated. This guide explains the causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches for overbites to help you maintain better dental health.
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Defining Overbite vs Overjet: Common Dental Misalignments

It’s important to understand the difference between an overbite and an overjet. An overbite refers to the vertical overlap of the upper teeth covering the lower teeth. On the other hand, an overjet refers to the horizontal distance between the upper front teeth and the lower front teeth. Recognizing these issues is key to choosing the correct treatment.

Causes of Severe Overjet and Overbite

Severe overjet or overbite could result from:

Skeletal irregularities in the jaw structure
Misaligned teeth
Genetic predisposition
Childhood habits like thumb-sucking or 
prolonged pacifier use

Recognizing these root causes enables more tailored approaches to treatment.

Close-up of a smiling person with overbite and braces on their upper teeth, showcasing metal brackets and wires designed to correct an overbite in San Antonio, TX
A close-up of a person's lips slightly parted, revealing metal braces correcting an overbite. The skin is smooth, and makeup is subtle, enhancing the focus on the orthodontic details in San Antonio, TX

Signs and Symptoms of an Overbite

Early detection of an overbite is essential in preventing complications and ensuring proper treatment. Key signs include:

Upper teeth significantly overlapping the lower teeth
Excessive visibility of the upper teeth compared to the lower teeth
Difficulty in closing the mouth properly
Potential facial imbalance or jaw discomfort

If any of these symptoms are appear, consulting an orthodontist is highly recommended.

Potential Health Issues
from Untreated Overbite

Ignoring an overbite could lead to several health issues such as:

Jaw pain and discomfort

TMJ disorders

Tooth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

Difficulty maintaining oral hygiene

Risk of tooth decay and gum disease

Speech difficulties

Negative impact on self-confidence

A person in a white coat holds a dental model and tool, demonstrating oral care techniques to address an overbite. A plant is in the background in San Antonio, TX

Diagnosis and Assessment of Overbite Severity

During regular check-ups at Fiesta Orthodontics in San Antonio, TX, experienced orthodontists, Dr. Fateh Arslan or Dr. Ayla Idilbi, will examine the alignment of your teeth and determine the severity of the overbite. Early diagnosis and accurate measurements are critical in selecting the best treatment plan to match your unique needs.

Treatment Methods to Fix an Overbite

The following treatments are available at Fiesta Orthodontics to correct overbites based on their severity:

Orthodontic treatments: Braces and Invisalign clear aligners can steadily adjust the alignment of teeth and enhance the bite.
Surgical intervention: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to reposition the jawbones properly for the best outcome.
Retention phase: Retainers are prescribed after treatment to maintain alignment and stop the condition from returning.

Dr. Fateh Arslan and Dr. Ayla Idilbi will guide you toward the ideal treatment for your specific case.

Close-up of a person smiling with metal braces on their teeth, transforming an overbite into a confident grin in San Antonio, TX

Braces and Invisalign Clear Aligners

Traditional metal braces and ceramic braces are proven to be effective in correcting overbites by realigning the teeth and their position in the jaw. Lingual braces are an alternative for those looking for more discreet treatment. Invisalign clear aligners are also a good option for mild to moderate overbites, offering convenience and minimal upkeep.

Surgical Intervention

For overbites caused by jaw structure imbalances, surgery may be performed to help reposition the jaw and is often paired with orthodontic care. The procedure usually requires a brief hospital stay, followed by a healing period, to deliver advanced improvements.

Prevention and Early Intervention Strategies

Taking early action can prevent severe overbites from developing. The American Association of Orthodontists advises parents to take children to an orthodontist by the age of seven to look for any early issues. Reducing thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits can also minimize the risk of overbites.

A person in a light denim shirt, confidently smiling despite their overbite, stands with their hands behind their back against a plain gray background in San Antonio, TX
A patient with an overbite sits in a dental chair, smiling, as a dentist and assistant, masked and gloved, give a thumbs-up in the clinical setting in San Antonio, TX

The Importance of Choosing an Experienced Orthodontist

Selecting a skilled orthodontist is crucial for achieving the best outcomes when treating overbites. At Fiesta Orthodontics in San Antonio, TX, Dr. Fateh Arslan and Dr. Ayla Idilbi, provide personalized treatment plans focusing on improving alignment, bite functionality, and overall facial harmony. Using the latest techniques, they offer effective and lasting results tailored to your dental needs.

FAQ

Is it OK to have an overbite?

A minor overbite is generally not an issue since minor overlap is natural. However, a large overbite that noticeably hides the lower teeth should be checked by an orthodontist to assess the need for treatment.

What causes an overbite?

Overbites can result from several factors, such as genetic influences, thumb-sucking, prolonged pacifier use, or extra teeth that interfere with proper jaw growth.

How can an overbite be corrected?

Treatment for an overbite depends on its severity. Options include orthodontics like traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, Invisalign clear aligners, or other orthodontic appliances. Severe overbite cases may also need surgery to realign the jaw properly while using orthodontics.