Orthodontic issues can be quite upsetting and uncomfortable, especially if they interfere with your ability to talk confidently, eat, and smile. Two common orthodontic problems—overbites and underbites—can be pretty uncomfortable and have a negative impact on your general quality of life.
However, orthodontists can resolve these problems and assist you in achieving a healthy, attractive smile with the proper diagnosis and treatment.
Let’s take a deep look at overbites and underbites, as well as their causes and remedies.
Understanding Overbites and Underbites
Let’s define overbites and underbites before going into the specifics of orthodontic therapy. An overbite develops when the upper front teeth severely overlap the lower front teeth, typically by more than 5 millimeters. A lower jaw that juts out is a sign of an underbite, which happens when the lower front teeth stick out further than the upper front teeth.
Hereditary predispositions can bring on both disorders, but they can also arise through behaviors like thumb- or tongue-sucking.
Orthodontic Treatments for Overbites
In order to achieve a more balanced bite, upper front teeth are often moved backward and lower front teeth are moved forward during orthodontic treatments for overbites. The type of treatment necessary depends on how severe the overbite is.
Braces alone could be enough to fix problems in mild to moderate situations. But for severe overbites, more involved procedures like surgery or orthodontic headgear can be needed.
Braces
Overbites are frequently treated with traditional braces in orthodontics. To exert pressure on the teeth and gradually move them into the proper position, they utilize metal brackets and wires. Specific overbite concerns, including deep or open bites, can be addressed with specialized braces.
Orthodontic headgear
Sometimes a significant overbite cannot be corrected with braces alone. Orthodontic headgear may be suggested in such cases. When used with braces, headgear exerts additional pressure on the jaw and teeth to help them realign. Generally, it is worn for a couple of hours every day, generally at night.
Surgery
Rarely, a severe overbite may need to be corrected surgically. Repositioning the jaws to provide a more balanced bite is a part of orthognathic surgery. The surgery is typically performed in a hospital setting and requires a few weeks of recovery.
Orthodontic Treatments for Underbites
Underbites can also be fixed with orthodontic procedures, just as overbites. These procedures aim to create a more balanced bite by moving the higher front teeth forward and the lower front teeth backward.
Braces
Braces can be a successful treatment for mild to moderate underbites, just like they are for overbites. However, more severe situations can call for additional orthodontic appliances.
Reverse-pull headgear
By drawing the upper jaw forward and pressing the lower jaw back, this device helps to treat underbites. It can be used with braces and is typically worn for a number of hours each day.
Jaw surgery
To address a severe underbite, orthognathic surgery may occasionally be necessary. The procedure usually takes place in a hospital setting, and recovery lasts for a few weeks. The jaws are moved during the process to achieve a more balanced bite.
Kumra Orthodontics
Kumra Orthodontics is a leading Orthodontist in Lincoln Park. For over 15 years, their team of highly skilled professionals has been helping patients achieve their perfect smile by providing personalized and comprehensive orthodontic treatments. Here are the services they offer:
Traditional Braces
Popular teeth straightening option using metal brackets and wires.
Retainers
Custom-made oral devices to maintain teeth alignment after orthodontic treatment
Invisalign
Clear plastic aligners for a nearly invisible alternative to traditional braces
iTero Digital Scanning
State-of-the-art method for taking accurate digital impressions of the teeth and gums
Kumra Orthodontics also offers free consultations to their patients, so they can learn more about their services and how they can help achieve their perfect smile.
Why Choose Kumra Orthodontics?
Personalized treatment plans for patients of all ages
Kumra Orthodontics believes that every patient is unique and deserves a customized treatment plan that fits their individual needs. The team takes the time to understand each patient’s specific orthodontic issues and creates a personalized plan to achieve the best results.
Customized treated plans
Kumra Orthodontics has a team of highly skilled professionals dedicated to providing personalized care to each patient. They take the time to listen to their concerns, answer their questions, and create a customized treatment plan that fits their needs.
Affordable services
Kumra Orthodontics is committed to providing high-quality orthodontic services that are affordable for everyone. They believe everyone deserves a beautiful smile and offer flexible payment options to make treatment accessible to all.
State-of-the-art technology
Kumra Orthodontics uses the latest technology and techniques to correct many orthodontic issues. They have the expertise to diagnose and treat complex cases and use state-of-the-art equipment to achieve the best results.
Final Thoughts
Overbites and underbites are common orthodontic issues affecting oral health and overall well-being. Left untreated, they can lead to serious dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and even jaw pain. Fortunately, many effective orthodontic treatments are available to correct these issues, including traditional braces and Invisalign.
Choosing the right orthodontist is critical to achieving the best results. Kumra Orthodontics has been providing superior orthodontic care to the people of Lincoln Park for over 15 years. Their highly skilled professionals use state-of-the-art technology and personalized care to create individualized treatment plans that meet each patient’s specific needs and goals.
