An overbite is a very common reason to visit an orthodontist in Franklin Park. While many parents may not immediately recognize the condition as the serious problem ignoring it can lead to complications later in life. It’s important to invest the time in learning about overbites in children – what they are, what damage they can cause, and how they can be corrected.
What Exactly is an Overbite?
The term “overbite” describes any situation where the upper teeth are too far in front of the lower teeth when the jaw is in its natural resting position. The upper teeth should only be over the lower teeth by about 1 to 2 millimeters; any protrusion greater than that will lead to problems.
Signs of an overbite may become visible as early as age 5. Parents may sometimes be able to recognize the warning signs on their own, but the most reliable way to catch the issue as early as possible is to bring the child in for an orthodontic appointment no later than age 7. A trained orthodontist will be able to recognize the warning signs of a developing overbite and intervene before it grows worse.
What Happens if an Overbite Is Not Treated?
An untreated overbite can cause a variety of issues, including:
- Frequently recurring headaches and ear pain
- Difficulty with chewing certain types of food
- The development of speech impediments
- Lower teeth being broken down by upper teeth
- Jaw and facial pain
- Teeth grinding
- Decreased self-esteem and confidence
These symptoms can all start out comparatively mild and grow more severe over time. Hence, correction is usually required to maintain excellent oral health.
How Can an Overbite Be Corrected?
It is easier to fix an overbite while children are still young with jaws that have not yet fully developed. An orthodontist can determine the best method of treatment after thoroughly examining the mouth and the position of the jaw. In most cases, braces are an excellent option; different types may be recommended depending on the severity of the overbite and the length of treatment will vary (although it will usually be one or two years). Sometimes a tooth extraction will be needed first, so the remaining teeth can move into place more easily during realignment. Surgery is also a treatment option, but it’s reserved for very specific circumstances.
Any parent who has reason to be concerned about the alignment of their child’s jaw or teeth should call an orthodontist in Franklin Park right away. There is no age limit for overbite treatment, but the condition should be dealt with sooner rather than later whenever possible.
About the Practice
At Grand Dental – Franklin Park, we are proud to have an in-house orthodontist who works with children of all ages. This means that your child can have their overbite treated by the same team that’s responsible for cleaning their teeth and making sure that their smile is developing properly. To schedule an orthodontic consultation, visit our website or call (847) 455-8383.