Your smile is as unique as your fingerprint. The alignment of your teeth plays a significant role in its character. Dental anomalies, overbites, and underbites are among the most common, affecting millions worldwide.
These conditions can have lasting health impacts if left untreated. This comprehensive guide will explore the distinctions between overbites and underbites.
Read on to learn more about the differences between overbite vs underbite.
What is an Overbite?
This, often called buck teeth, occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth. The degree of vertical overlap varies; 2-3 millimeters is considered normal. Anything beyond that may be classified as an overbite.
This malocclusion is more than a cosmetic issue. It can lead to problems such as:
- gum damage
- ineffective chewing
- potential speech impediments
There are several common reasons for an overbite to develop, including:
Skeletal Issues
Sometimes, the upper jaw is more developed than the lower, leading to an overbite. This may be due to genetics or developmental issues, such as thumb-sucking.
Thumb-Sucking and Pacifier Use
These habits can cause the front teeth to protrude. Creating or exacerbating an overbite. Children who continue these habits beyond 3 or 4 are at a higher risk.
Poor Oral Posture
Resting your tongue in your mouth and positioning your lips can affect tooth alignment over time. An overbite may develop if the tongue is pressed against the front teeth or lips are always parted.
Genetics
This can play a significant role, as jaw and teeth structure often run in the family. Children with one or both parents with an overbite are likelier to develop the same condition.
Missing or Extra Teeth
Gaps in the teeth can lead to overbites by affecting the alignment of the surrounding teeth. Extra teeth can also cause crowding and shifting, leading to an overbite.
Poor Oral Habits
Poor tongue posture, such as pushing the tongue against the front teeth, can contribute to an overbite over time. Other behaviors like breathing through the mouth can also affect tooth position.
Types of Overbites
There are three types of overbites, each classified by the severity of the vertical overlap:
Dental Overbite: Class II Malocclusion
A dental overbite refers to an abnormal alignment of the teeth, usually caused by the overgrowth of the maxillary bones. This can lead to the upper teeth protruding further out than the lower teeth.
Skeletal Overbite: Class II Division I Malocclusion
A skeletal overbite involves a proportionally larger upper jaw than the lower one. This results in a discrepancy in upper and lower jaw sizes, leading to significant overjet and overbite problems.
Complex Overbite
Dental and skeletal issues combine to create an overbite. This complex condition requires a comprehensive treatment approach.
What is an Underbite?
An underbite occurs when the lower front teeth protrude beyond the upper front teeth. Underbites can be severe. Leading to a bulldog-like appearance and creating functional issues with biting and chewing food.
Many of the causes overlap with those of overbites but with opposite effects:
Inherited Tendencies
A family history of underbites can increase one’s likelihood of developing the condition. This is especially true if both parents have underbites.
Jaw Growth Discrepancies
A lower jaw that grows faster than the upper jaw can cause an underbite. A smaller upper jaw or excessive lower jaw growth can also lead to this condition.
Childhood Behaviors
Extended use of pacifiers or thumb-sucking can push the lower jaw forward, creating an underbite. This is why breaking these habits at a young age is essential.
Abnormal Growth
Issues with the jaw’s growth can lead to an underbite. To an overbite, a smaller upper jaw or larger lower jaw could be at play. Additionally, facial trauma can also cause an underbite.
Tongue Thrusting
Incorrect tongue posture may also contribute to developing an underbite, as the tongue may push the lower front teeth forward. This can be caused by mouth breathing or improper swallowing patterns.
Types of Underbites
Like overbites, there are three types of underbites based on the severity and cause:
Dental Underbite: Class III Malocclusion
This type of underbite refers to a misalignment. The lower teeth sit before the upper teeth when the mouth is closed. Dental underbites can present significant cosmetic and functional challenges.
Skeletal Underbite
A skeletal underbite can occur when the upper jaw outgrows the lower jaw. This discrepancy leads to the lower jaw and teeth extending beyond the upper jaw. Causing the aesthetic and functional issues associated with underbite conditions.
Complex Underbite
A complex underbite involves a combination of dental and skeletal issues. Requires comprehensive treatment to address both the dental and skeletal components.
Diagnosing Overbites and Underbites
Recognizing an overbite or an underbite can often be done by visual inspection. Dentists or orthodontists will use various diagnostic tools. This is to assess the severity and type of malocclusion.
3D Imaging and Computerized Models
This allows for a more detailed and precise analysis of the jaw structure. Computerized models are created using digital scans of a patient’s teeth.
This provides a virtual replica of the mouth that can be manipulated. This is to predict how different treatments might affect tooth alignment.
This cutting-edge technology aids in customizing treatment plans. Forecasting long-term outcomes for patients with overbites and underbites.
Dental Impressions and Scans
Dental impressions and scans are essential diagnostic tools that capture the exact contours. Traditional impressions use a soft, pliable material. It creates a rubber-like consistency to provide a negative mouth replica.
Digital impressions involve scanners that capture detailed 3D images of oral structures. It is the mess or discomfort associated with traditional impression materials.
Occlusal Analysis
Occlusal analysis is a comprehensive evaluation that examines how teeth come together. A dentist or orthodontist assesses the contact between upper and lower teeth.
Looking at the distribution and timing of bite forces. This can reveal the presence of malocclusions.
Treatment Options for Overbites and Underbites
The treatment for overbites and underbites can be as diverse as the causes. The approach depends on the individual’s age. The severity of the malocclusion and personal preferences.
Orthodontics
Braces remain the primary tool for correcting overbites and underbites. Braces move the teeth into the desired position over time.
Orthodontics offers various treatment options designed to align teeth and correct jaw discrepancies. Traditional braces, which use a:
- system of wires and brackets
- exert consistent pressure on teeth
- moving them into proper alignment
Modern advancements have led to less conspicuous solutions such as ceramic braces. This blends with the natural color of teeth and lingual braces that attach to the back surfaces of teeth.
Retainers
Retainers hold the corrected bite. This prevents the teeth from returning to their original positions. Clear aligners have become popular as a discreet and comfortable orthodontic treatment option.
These custom-made, transparent plastic trays are invisible when worn. They are designed to move teeth into their proper position.
Patients receive a series of aligners. Each is different from the last to guide teeth into alignment over time. Aligners must be worn for the recommended 20 to 22 hours daily to be effective.
Tooth Removal
It is an orthodontic technique that may be considered in teeth alignment cases. There is insufficient space within the jaw to accommodate proper alignment. It removes one or several teeth and can move the remaining teeth into better positions.
This method is not taken and is a measure of last resort. This is to ensure it will contribute to the desired treatment outcome. A dental professional performs extractions using local anesthesia.
Functional Appliances
Functional appliances correct bite problems by modifying jaw growth and tooth position. They are often used in growing children.
They can take advantage of a child’s natural growth patterns. This is to encourage or restrict the development of the jaws.
These appliances can be fixed to the teeth or designed as removable devices. Patients wear them for a prescribed number of hours daily.
Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic treatment surgery may be necessary to reposition the jaw. This is often the case with complex overbites and underbites.
This procedure involves repositioning the jaw bones to correct irregularities. The upper jaw may be moved backward, or the lower jaw may be brought forward for underbite correction.
Palatal Expanders
Narrow jaws contribute to crossbites and underdevelopment of the upper jaw. This palatal expander can be used to widen the upper jaw.
Palatal expanders are orthodontic devices designed to create more space in the upper jaw by widening the palate. This procedure generally occurs in children and teenagers while their facial bones grow. The device consists of a custom-made metal framework fitted over several top teeth in the back of the mouth.
Braces for Young Children
Early intervention with orthodontic treatment, known as interceptive orthodontics. This may be recommended to guide the growth of the jaws and create space for the adult teeth to come in.
It is a preventative approach to cut more severe orthodontic issues later in life. Tailored for children between the ages of 6 and 10.
These early interventions can guide the development of the jaw and dental arches. Making room for incoming permanent teeth and improving the likelihood of a natural and proper bite.
Invisalign
You may also be aware of the things to know about Invisalign. Invisalign is a revolutionary orthodontic treatment that offers an alternative to traditional braces through a series of custom, clear aligners. It is ideal for patients seeking a less visible method to straighten their teeth.
The most prominent feature of Invisalign is its clear aligners that are undetectable when worn. This allows for discreet treatment, which is especially appealing to adults and teens who are self-conscious about the appearance of metal braces.
Lifestyle Adjustments to Consider
Besides orthodontic treatment, lifestyle adjustments can help prevent or cut the severity of overbites and underbites. These include:
Eating Habits
Conscious eating habits, such as cutting food into smaller pieces and chewing. This can ease discomfort and promote better digestion, especially during the initial stages of orthodontic treatment.
Eating habits play a crucial role not only in managing bite issues but also in supporting orthodontic treatment. Patients are often advised to avoid hard, crunchy, sticky foods that can damage braces and other orthodontic appliances.
Foods like caramel, nuts, popcorn, and whole apples can exert excessive force on brackets and wires or become lodged in them, leading to dental emergencies. Furthermore, sugary snacks and drinks should be minimized.
They can increase the risk of tooth decay, especially around the brackets where plaque can accumulate. A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can benefit overall dental health and aid in the correction process.
Oral Hygiene
Effective oral hygiene practices are essential during orthodontic treatment. Patients must maintain a consistent brushing and flossing routine to prevent plaque buildup and cavities. Orthodontic-friendly toothbrushes and flossing tools can make this easier while undergoing treatment.
Regular dental cleanings are also crucial as they allow for the removal of plaque and tartar buildup, which can be harder to reach with braces or aligners.
Oral Exercises
Various oral exercises can help retrain the tongue and jaw muscles, particularly following treatment. These exercises can improve tongue posture and encourage proper jaw alignment, promoting long-term stability in the bite.
Speech Therapy
For individuals whose overbite or underbite impacts their speech, working with a speech therapist can help correct any speech impediments. Speech therapy can assist in improving articulation and pronunciation, making speech more clear and understandable.
Long-term Considerations
Maintaining your dental health after treating an overbite or underbite is crucial. Regular visits to the dentist and using prescribed or recommended dental appliances can prevent relapse and the need for further treatment.
Immediate orthodontic treatment plans must often be followed by long-term use of retainers and regular monitoring by a reputable dentist or orthodontist to ensure the corrected bite remains in place.
Understanding the Difference Between Overbite vs Underbite
Overbites and underbites are common dental conditions that vary in cause and treatment. With proper diagnosis and timely intervention, these malocclusions can be managed effectively, restoring the aesthetics of your smile and the functionality and long-term health of your teeth and jaws.
If you suspect you or your child may have an overbite vs underbite, consult a dental professional to explore the best treatment options. Remember, your smile is as unique as your fingerprint and deserves to shine with confidence and comfort.
For more helpful tips, check out the rest of our site today!
Nicole Ann Pore is a writer, an events host and a voice over artist. Travel, health, shopping, lifestyle and business are among the many subjects she writes about. Through quality and well-researched writing, she informs and even entertains readers about things that matter. She is also interested in film critiquing and filmmaking. Giving all the glory to God, Nicole graduated Cum Laude from De La Salle University Manila, Philippines with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Arts.
