A very small overbite is normal and healthy, but if your top teeth sit too far in front of your bottom teeth, you actually have an orthodontic condition. Without treatment, you may never achieve optimal oral health and function. What are some specific reasons to talk to your orthodontist about getting an overbite corrected? This blog post discusses five.
Reduce Pain and Discomfort
When the upper and lower teeth do not align properly, the jaw muscles must work harder to compensate, which places additional stress on the temporomandibular joints (those are the joints just in front of your ears). This imbalance can lead to chronic headaches, jaw pain, and even earaches. By seeking orthodontic treatment to correct an overbite, you can alleviate unnecessary tension on the jaw and experience long-term pain relief.
Protect Your Teeth from Damage
When the upper front teeth protrude excessively, they often wear down the lower teeth or become more susceptible to chipping and cracking. Over time, the repeated contact between misaligned teeth can even erode enamel and increase the likelihood of tooth fractures. Correcting an overbite allows for a more even distribution of biting forces, helping to maintain the strength and longevity of your teeth.
Simplify Eating and Speaking
An overbite can make it difficult to bite and chew certain foods. This complication might affect your nutrition and overall enjoyment of meals. In addition, your speech may suffer, as misaligned teeth are known to create challenges with pronunciation and articulation. Orthodontic treatment helps achieve proper alignment, allowing for smoother, more efficient movement of the jaw. As a result, everyday activities like eating and speaking become easier and more comfortable.
It Is Never Too Late for Treatment
Many people believe that orthodontic treatment is only for children and teenagers, but this is not the case. Advances in orthodontics make it possible for people of all ages to benefit from correcting an overbite. Whether you are in your twenties or well into adulthood, options are available to address your concerns and improve your oral health. Age should never be a barrier to achieving a healthier, more functional smile.
Boost Your Confidence
A noticeable overbite can affect your self-esteem and willingness to smile. Feeling self-conscious about your teeth might negatively influence personal interactions and professional opportunities. By correcting an overbite, you can gain a more balanced and attractive smile, which often translates into greater confidence.
Ready to be over your overbite? Speak with your orthodontist today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!
Meet the Practice
Drs. Tamara Jones and Stephanie Amerson are orthodontists who are proud to serve the Richardson community. Under their leadership, our team offers traditional braces, clear aligners, and a range of other effective treatments. We often help patients correct overbites and other dental alignment issues. To learn more about us and how we may be able to serve you, contact our office at 972-238-7101.