An overjet refers to a case where the upper teeth protrude outward and sit over the bottom teeth.
All of us would love a perfectly aligned smile, but the reality is that orthodontic problems affect many people of all ages. An overjet, also known as buck teeth, can affect the appearance of one’s smile quite considerably, and can also affect oral functions like chewing and speech. The good news is that the issue can be resolved — read on to find out more about the treatment options…
What is an overjet?
An overjet is an orthodontic condition in which the top front teeth protrude over the bottom front teeth. The issue differs from an overbite in that overjet teeth protrude at an angle, which is not the case with an overbite.
An overjet is often a cause of cosmetic concern, but it can also lead to other issues — these include jaw pain, as well as difficulty with eating and speaking.
What causes an overjet?
An overjet is a kind of malocclusion, which refers to an orthodontic issue in which the teeth are not properly aligned. There are a number of factors that can contribute to this type of problem, including genetic factors that affect one’s jaw size and skeletal structure. Prolonged thumb-sucking can also contribute to the problem.
What are the treatment options?
If you have an overjet that you would like resolved, the testament that is most appropriate for you will depend on the severity of the issue, its impact on your overall appearance, and the ways in which it is affecting your oral function.
In some cases, orthodontic treatment is sufficient in treating an overjet — braces, for example, can improve the alignment of the teeth and jaws, improving both the form and function of one’s smile. Braces work by applying continuous pressure to the teeth, causing them to gradually shift into new positions over time. If you are a suitable candidate for braces, you can expect your treatment to take between 18 and 24 months, although this will depend on the severity of your overjet.
Sometimes, it is necessary to extract some teeth prior to orthodontic treatment, while in very severe cases, your orthodontist may recommend that you undergo surgery. Corrective jaw surgery, for example, may be recommended if the cause of your overjet is an undeveloped mandibular arch. The procedure will help to correct the shape of your jaw and alleviate any uncomfortable symptoms that you are struggling with.
If you are concerned about an overjet, the best starting point is to consult with an orthodontist. They will perform a thorough examination and determine what impact the issue is having on your oral health and function. They will then recommend a treatment plan that will work for you.
How can we help?
If you are struggling with overjet teeth or another bite-related problem, you could benefit from orthodontic treatment. At South East Orthodontics, we treat the full scope of orthodontic issues so if you have a concern that you would like addressed, we encourage you to come in and speak to us. Our team is highly experienced in the field of orthodontics and offers a comprehensive range of treatments — these include surgical treatments for patients with severe skeletal discrepancies, as well as traditional metal braces.
If you would like some more information about the surgical treatments that we are able to perform, please have a look here.
To find out more about the braces that we offer at South East Orthodontics, please have a look here.
To find out more about the services that we provide at South East Orthodontics, please have a look here. If you would like to arrange a consultation, please contact us here or give us a call on 03 9330 0702. We treat patients of all ages and look forward to welcoming you to our practice in Berwick.