Overbite, underbite & overjet
Last medically reviewed by Dr Sam Jethwa: February 8, 2021
Malocclusions of the teeth: Types and treatments
One of the first things you notice about a person is their smile.
If you have misaligned, discoloured or crowded teeth, then this can have an impact on your self-confidence.
Your happiness is important and here at Bespoke, we can help find the best approach and solution for you.
Show your smile
Many people are conscious about their appearance when they have malocclusions.
A malocclusion is a misalignment of between the two dental arches as the mouth closes.
Overbites, underbites and overjets are the most common types of malocclusion.
Misaligned teeth can harm confidence, which results in patients tending to hide their smiles as a result.
However, if you are concerned about the overall look of your smile, there are a number of orthodontic as well as cosmetic options to help correct your teeth and to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
Speak to one of our dental specialists today to discuss the best solution for you. Your smile is safe with us.
Call us on 01628 488 538
Overjet vs. Overbite: What’s the Difference?
An overjet, sometimes called ‘buck teeth’ is when the upper teeth point outwards and position themselves over the bottom teeth.
Not only does an overjet affect how you look, but can also cause orthodontic problems with chewing, drinking, biting and lead to jaw pain.
Some severe overjets may make it difficult for someone to close their lips completely.
If your upper front teeth are more than 2mm away from your lower teeth, then you have an overjet.
An overbite is similar to an overjet in that the upper teeth protrude in front of the bottom teeth, however with an overjet, the teeth are at an angle.
The teeth are facing downward in an overbite.
Types of Underbite Correction Treatment
With this form of malocclusion, the lower teeth extend outwards and cover the upper teeth.
An underbite is more than just an aesthetic issue but can lead to difficulty chewing, speaking and face or mouth pain.
Cosmetic solutions to malocclusions include:
The most common non-surgical alignment treatment, braces move and straighten your teeth gradually.
Tightening braces can cause minor discomfort, however, they are a successful way of realigning your teeth for a straighter smile.
Benefits of braces include:
- Very effective realignment treatment
- Improved oral health
- Improved digestion
- Prevention of jawbone erosion
- Improve speech
Read more about advanced braces treatments here.
Alternative, faster treatments to braces include:
Laminate | Composite | Emax | Ultrathin
An overjet can also be treated with veneers.
They are small porcelain attachments that are placed on the surface of your teeth.
Veneers are more expensive than fixed braces, due to the fact they are custom-made to fit the shape and colour of your teeth for a natural-looking finish.
Advantages:
- Durable & strong (Dental veneers tend to last between 10-12 years).
- Natural-looking
- Require minimal prep and no drilling
- Improve your oral health
Discover more about our special veneers here. OR, read our short guide below for more:
Other treatments
Dental bonding:
Dental bonding can solve malocclusions by making protruding teeth less obvious.
One of our trained dental professionals will use a composite resin to change the shape and size of your teeth for a more immediate solution than fixed braces.
The resin does not damage your teeth.
It is strong, and tooth-coloured, and is a long-term solution as it lasts several years before it will need to be repaired or replaced.
A crown is custom-made and covers the whole tooth.
It can make protruding teeth appear more aligned and can improve your smile without the long process of wearing and tightening braces.
Other orthodontic treatments for malocclusions include:
- Removal of teeth to avoid overcrowding
- Surgical reshaping or shortening of the jaw
- Wires or plates to stabilise the jaw
Our cosmetic dental solutions are tailored to your needs and requirements.
Download our pricing list here.
Concerned about COVID-19? We are following Government guidelines and prioritising the safety of our patients above all else.
We understand you may feel concerned about coming into our practice for a consultation that is why we are offering digital consultations with expert dentists like Dr Sam Jethwa.
Call us on 01628 488 538