As a parent, you want your children to have the best possible dental health and overall well-being. One of the most common dental problems among children is a teeth overbite. This condition happens when the upper teeth project further than the lower teeth. In mild cases, an overbite may not cause any significant problems, but if left untreated, it may lead to more severe dental and health issues. Fortunately, there are several corrective dental procedures available for children with an overbite. This comprehensive guide will cover the different dental procedures for correcting a teeth overbite in children.
Braces
Braces are perhaps the most common and traditional dental treatment for an overbite. Braces consist of metal brackets and wires that exert pressure on the teeth, gradually guiding them toward their correct alignment. Braces are suitable for children with a severe overbite and may take several months or years to complete. Depending on the case, orthodontists may also use additional appliances, such as headgear, elastics, or springs, to enhance the effectiveness of braces.
Retainers
Retainers are custom-made, removable devices that fit over the teeth and apply subtle pressure to the gums and bones. They can prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original positions and help improve jaw alignment. Usually, orthodontists prescribe retainers after braces or other corrective treatments to maintain the results.
Palatal Expanders
Palatal expanders are devices that aim to widen the upper jaw by stretching the palate. They are suitable for children with a narrow or constricted upper jaw, which can cause an overbite. Palatal expanders consist of two metal braces that are connected with a screw-like mechanism. Parents or children might turn the screw by a small amount each day, slowly widening the appliance over time. Palatal expanders are not painful, but children may have difficulty speaking and eating at first.
Surgery
In extreme cases, surgery may be necessary to correct an overbite. Surgery may involve removing a small amount of bone from the lower jaw or inserting a small device to reposition the jaw properly. However, surgery is rarely the first treatment option and is only recommended in severe cases that cannot be addressed with other methods. Surgery usually requires general anesthesia and may have a recovery period of several weeks.
Invisalign
Invisalign uses clear, plastic aligners to move the teeth gradually. Invisalign is suitable for mild to moderate cases of overbite and may work best for older children or teenagers who prioritize aesthetics. They are removable, virtually invisible, and require fewer visits to the orthodontist. However, parents should note that Invisalign may have some limitations and may not be suitable for all cases of overbite.
Dental procedures for correcting teeth overbite in children can significantly improve oral health, facial aesthetics, and overall well-being. Parents should consult an experienced orthodontist to evaluate their child's specific condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment. With proper dental care, children with an overbite can achieve a straight, healthy smile and enjoy a lifetime of dental confidence. Contact a dental professional to learn more about teeth overbite correction options.
Share5 December 2023
My son was outside playing with some friends when he accidentally fell down and hit his mouth on the sidewalk. The fall knocked out his front tooth, so I immediately placed the tooth in a small jar and added some milk. I rushed my son to the dental clinic and the dentist immediately took us into the examination room. The dentist placed the tooth back into the socket and saved it. My name is Beverly Tillman and thanks to the quick work of the dentist, my son didn't lose his tooth. Since this was a scary time for me and my son, I wanted to write this blog as a source of information for other parents who are facing a dental emergency. First of all, don't panic and get to your dentist as soon as possible. I hope this blog will help to answer your questions about dental emergencies.