What Is An Overbite?
An overbite or overjet, also known as a Class II malocclusion, is a common dental problem that occurs when the upper jaw protrudes too far over the lower jaw or when the upper front teeth are angled too far forward. About 30-40 percent of patients seek treatment for this condition.
There are two main causes of an excessive overjet: skeletal and dental. A skeletal Class II malocclusion is caused by a discrepancy in jaw development, which may be due to a narrow or protruding upper jaw, an underdeveloped lower jaw, or a combination of both.
A dental overbite, on the other hand, can be caused by factors such as overcrowding, thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, prolonged use of dummies or bottles, loss of teeth, or impacted or missing teeth.
If left untreated, an overbite can cause various problems, including speech issues, poor sleeping and breathing habits, wearing down of teeth, and unappealing facial and dental aesthetics.
Treatment for a Class II malocclusion in adolescents depends on the underlying cause and the patient's growth status. Growth modification techniques, such as the use of functional appliances and jaw expanders, to help develop the upper and lower jaw simultaneously for optimal facial and dental harmony, function, and breathing.
This is usually in conjunction with braces, minimising the need for tooth extraction.
In adults, braces alone may be sufficient for mild cases, while more severe cases may require braces combined with jaw surgery for better dental and facial aesthetics. TADs (temporary anchorage devices) may also be used to minimize the need for extractions and surgery.
Untreated, an overbite can cause speech problems, developmental issues associated to poor sleeping and breathing habits, wearing of the teeth and poor dental and facial aesthetics.
