For those of us longing to restore the self-esteem that used to accompany our smile, cosmetic dentistry can make it happen. We will go to the greatest lengths necessary in order for our beam to radiate with newfound confidence once again. Porcelain veneers are a revolutionary solution for enhancing the aesthetics of your smile. These ultra-thin shells are securely placed on the front of teeth to mask any imperfections and give you that perfect grin! But can veneers fix an overbite? Let’s find out.
What is an overbite?
Overbite involves the top teeth excessively overlapping with those at the bottom, often to the extent of 30-50%. This margin is significant in that it can dictate whether or not treatment and correction are necessary for a healthy smile.
There are two distinguishable types of overbites: vertical and horizontal. An individual with a vertical overbite will experience their upper teeth overlapping the bottom teeth, while in contrast, those with a horizontal overbite will have their upper set extending past the bottom. If you are suffering from a severe overbite, it is essential to see your dentist without delay.
For decades, traditional braces were the go-to method of correcting an overbite -until now. Porcelain veneers have changed the game and offer a more efficient solution for some cases of malocclusion.
Can veneers fix an overbite?
Porcelain veneers have become among the most sought-after cosmetic dental treatments, involving thin porcelain shells that cover the surface of your teeth. This procedure requires a small portion of enamel to be removed from each tooth in order to make room for these custom-made veneers. Once they are fitted correctly, adhesive bonding is used to secure them onto your teeth and give you long-lasting results. Dental veneers are a fantastic way to improve the appearance of crooked, discoloured, and worn-out teeth. Veneers can be a wonderful solution for overbite cases that don’t exceed the parameters of restorative or orthodontic treatment.
How can an overbite affect your oral health?
Not only is an overbite visually unappealing, but it can also cause issues like tooth decay, eating discomfort, worn-out tooth enamel, and severe jaw pain, to name a few. Additionally, it may lead to psychological matters, including a lack of confidence in one’s self-esteem.
That’s why addressing an overbite as soon as possible should be a priority. An untreated overbite can lead to the following dental complications:
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: In extreme cases, untreated overbites can cause TMJ to occur. Without treatment of the underlying problem, it may become difficult to control your jaw and perform normal activities, such as talking and eating.
- Gum disease: Severe overbites can cause damage to the gum line and wear away healthy tissue, as normal bites should not have any contact with gums. With an overbite, you are at risk of developing periodontal diseases and conditions like gingivitis or receding gums. Therefore, it is critical to maintain good dental hygiene and see your dentist regularly to keep these conditions in check.
- Tooth decay: A misaligned bite can lead to enamel grinding and, ultimately, tooth decay. This increases the risk of infection or even complete loss of healthy teeth in some cases. Avoid this danger by taking steps to realign your overbite as soon as possible.
What are the causes of an overbite?
Here are some of the causes of an overbite.
Inherited overbite
Unstraight teeth and improper bites are often passed down through the generations, pointing to our genetic makeup as an influence. Overbites are usually genetic rather than acquired as one becomes older.
Overly developed bite muscles
Oftentimes, those with overly-powerful bite muscles can suffer from an overbite. Individuals who habitually clench or grind their teeth can grow overly powerful jaw muscles, leading to an overbite.
Oral health in childhood
Certain oral habits practised during childhood can lead to an overbite. Unhealthy habits that can contribute to the formation of an overbite include:
- Lip sucking
- Tongue thrusting
- Thumb sucking
The amount of damage caused by these behaviours depends on how often, for how long, and with what force they are carried out.
Small lower jaw
Oftentimes, an overbite is caused by a lower jaw that is smaller in size. When the lower jaw is less developed than the upper jaw, it can lead to an improper bite alignment. The lower jaw may experience further development, and its teeth could reach the backs of the upper ones or even hit the roof of your mouth. As the lower teeth continue to ascend, they often become crowded and result in misaligned teeth.
How quickly can an overbite be treated to achieve optimal results?
This typically depends on the type of treatment your dentist suggests. Choosing to get braces is a great decision that will help improve your overbite in as little as 18-24 months. If you have broken or worn teeth, then crowns can correct your overbite and enhance your condition in just 6 months.
Will my overbite worsen as I grow older?
Unfortunately, it will. As time passes, your teeth will naturally begin to wear down. As your teeth erode, it is likely that the severity of your overbite will increase. Due to this, it is suggested that you take the advice of your dentist and resolve any issue as early in life as possible. Your dentist will be able to share with you their most effective strategies on how to treat your overbite, and the process may actually take less time than expected.
Upgrade your smile with veneers at Beyond Infinity Dental!
It is critical to consult with a dental professional who can assess your overbite and determine the most effective course of action. With state-of-the-art technology, our team of skilled dental professionals can help you achieve the perfect set of teeth to boost your confidence and enhance every aspect of life. They are devoted to providing the most comprehensive and professional care possible. Rest assured, you’ll always receive top-notch advice from our incredibly knowledgeable team.
Pick up the phone and dial (02) 8806 3799 to book an appointment now – you’ll be astounded by the results!
References
‘Do I Have An Overbite?’ Here’s How To Tell
https://www.webmd.com/connect-to-care/teeth-straightening/how-to-tell-if-you-have-an-overbite
What to Know Before You Get Dental Veneers
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-veneers
