An overbite is a condition where the upper front teeth do not rest correctly with the bottom teeth. Get answers to your questions and learn more about how braces can help correct overbites below and schedule your free virtual or in-person smile assessment now.
What is an overbite?
When your lower teeth overlap your upper teeth, this is a condition known as an overbite. Without proper intervention, an overbite can lead to gum disease, enamel wear, tooth decay, difficulty speaking, and other conditions.
The most effective way to address an overbite is with orthodontic appliances like Invisalign® or Damon Braces. Appliances can be used to apply pressure to the mouth and reshape its contours. Over time the top and lower arches change position into a more balanced profile. But correcting an overbite does more than give you a natural smile.
Straightening your teeth can positively affect the health of your teeth and gums. Misaligned teeth are more likely to trap food debris in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. Since trapped food cannot be removed, overbites can quickly lead to cavities and other unwelcome outcomes.
No two people have the same needs. During your free virtual or in-person smile assessment, Dr. Black will evaluate your unique needs and create an individualized treatment plan just for you!
What is the best way to fix an overbite
The good news is that most overbites can be treated. In most cases, braces treatment can help improve an irregular bite pattern by gently guiding your jaw and teeth into the ideal shape. At Black Orthodontics, we offer Invisalign and Damon System Braces.
Invisalign is a discrete and durable appliance for improving bites. Invisalign aligner wearers do not have to deal with the brackets and bands. Instead, they enjoy a comfortable and easy treatment that doesn’t interfere with their daily routine.
For some patients, correcting an overbite is as simple as wearing your customized Invisalign set for 20-22 hours a day and switching out your aligner set every five to seven days. Getting a natural smile has never been easier with Invisalign options for teens and adults.
As an alternative to Invisalign, Dr. Black may recommend self-ligating Damon Braces. Self-ligating braces don’t require tightening appointments. Rather, they apply pressure to gently adjust the teeth into the desired position. These are an excellent option for both teens and adults.
Of course, the best way to prevent overbite development is to catch it early. Our Growth and Guidance program lets you bring in your child every 6-12 months for a free check-in. Identifying bite challenges early allows us intercept before concerns become bigger issues.
How long does it take to fix an overbite with braces?
At Black Orthodontics, the only treatment standard is above-and-beyond care that fits your lifestyle goals. Treatment time can vary substantially because people can have such widely different needs. Average overbite treatment time can take anywhere from twelve months to two years. Severely overcrowded teeth may increase this time.
You may be able to accelerate your treatment with the use of a VPro+™. The VPro+ system administers high-frequency vibrations that improve your overall treatment time. Patients who use VPro+ typically finish their treatment time 30-50% ahead of schedule.
Once your treatment is completed, you will need to wear a retainer. Retainers are appliances that keep your smile in its ideal shape. Most people will have to wear a retainer for the rest of their lives following treatment.
We will be able to give you a better idea of how long your treatment may take during your free in-person or virtual smile assessment.
Find an overbite expert near you
There’s never been a better time to start enjoying a natural smile. For the last 30 years, Dr. Black has helped people all across the Asheville area. Options like Invisalign and Damon Braces make it easy to find the best solution for you and your family.
Find out why so many people trust Black Orthodontics. Schedule your free online or in-person smile assessment now!