An overbite occurs when your top teeth overlap your bottom teeth. It often makes sufferers feel self-conscious about their appearance.
Additionally, a severe overbite can cause oral health issues. Fortunately, there are many solutions available to treat the condition.
So how can I tell if I have an overbite that needs treatment?
What does a severe overbite look like?
A severe overbite is usually easy to identify because the upper teeth very noticeably protrude over the bottom teeth.
What causes malocclusion?
Some patients develop an overbite by no fault of their own. However, there are certain habits that may increase your risk, including:
These habits exude repetitive force on the teeth and jaw, causing them to shift in ways that can require extensive and costly therapy.
What else causes overbites?
Some patients have an underdeveloped lower jaw or overdeveloped upper jaw due to genetics, resulting in an overbite.
How common is an overbite?
Class II overbite is the most commonly treated condition in orthodontics. In the US, 33% of orthodontic patients are receiving treatment for a severe overbite.
How is an overbite diagnosed?
What should I do if I think I have an overbite?