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Overbites can go unnoticed until they start causing discomfort or dental problems, but Mandana Mozayeni, DDS, MSD, offers early intervention and personalized care to protect both your smile and your long-term oral health. At Mandana Mozayeni Orthodontics in Chardon, Cuyahoga Falls, Cleveland, and Middleburg, Ohio, Dr. Mozayeni offers customized orthodontic treatments and evidence-based care. To find out more, call the nearest office or schedule a consultation for you or your child online today.
Overbites Q & A
What are overbites?
If your upper front teeth cover a lot of your lower front teeth vertically when you bite down, you have an overbite. A small amount of overlap is perfectly healthy, but if your upper teeth cover too much of the lower teeth, it’s considered a deep overbite or excessive overbite.
Overbites can develop for several reasons, including genetics, jaw shape, teeth alignment, or habits like thumb sucking during childhood. They can affect both children and adults and vary in severity.
What issues can an overbite cause?
A pronounced overbite is more than a cosmetic concern. It can lead to many dental and health issues over time, such as:
- Excessive tooth wear: When teeth overlap too much, they can grind against each other, wearing down faster.
- Jaw pain or discomfort: An overbite can place additional stress on the jaw joints, sometimes contributing to TMJ-related symptoms.
- Gum irritation: Your lower teeth can irritate the roof of the mouth or the gum tissue behind your upper teeth.
- Speech difficulties: In some cases, a severe overbite can affect pronunciation.
- Increased risk of tooth damage: Teeth that protrude may be more vulnerable to chips or fractures.
Because these problems often develop gradually, you may not notice them until your bite imbalance becomes more significant.
When should I seek treatment for an overbite?
It’s a good idea to have an orthodontic evaluation if you notice signs of an overbite or experience symptoms like jaw pain, uneven tooth wear, or difficulty biting and chewing.
Mandana Mozayeni Orthodontics recommends evaluating children around age 7, when bite issues become easier to identify as permanent teeth start coming in. Early assessment doesn’t always mean immediate treatment, but it allows Dr. Mozayeni to monitor development and intervene at the right time if needed.
You can also benefit from treatment in adulthood. Modern orthodontic options make it possible to correct an overbite comfortably and discreetly at almost any age.
How are overbites corrected?
Your personalized overbite plan at Mandana Mozayeni Orthodontics uses evidence-based methods, such as:
- Braces
- Removable aligner systems like Invisalign®
- Rubber bands or bite appliances
- Growth modification appliances
In more complex cases, Dr. Mozayeni may recommend additional orthodontic techniques to achieve the best results.
If you suspect you or your child may have an overbite, schedule a consultation by calling Mandana Mozayeni Orthodontics or requesting an appointment online today.