Overbite correction

Overbite correction in Fredericksburg and Stafford

At Rappahannock Orthodontics, we are proud to treat a wide range of dental conditions. One of the most common problems our office helps to correct is an overbite, which occurs when the front teeth extend too far beyond the bottom teeth. 

Overbite symptoms

There are two different types of overbite a patient may experience. The first is a vertical or incisor overbite in which the top teeth overlap the bottom teeth. The second is a horizontal overbite where the top teeth protrude over the lower teeth. Some symptoms of both types of overbites include:

  • Stiffness in the jaw

  • Difficulty eating or chewing

  • Lockjaw

  • Popping noises when opening or closing the mouth

  • Earaches

  • Headaches

What can cause an overbite?

Many factors can cause a person to develop an excessive overbite. Often, this issue results from a patient’s facial bones or hereditary conditions. Overcrowded teeth can also cause misalignment and lead to an overbite.

An overbite may result from habits that cause the jaw to form incorrectly, as well. Some of these practices include:

  • Thumb sucking.
  • Overuse of a bottle.
  • Mouth breathing.
  • Thrusting the tongue against the teeth.
  • Using a pacifier after age two.

Do overbites need fixing?

Treating an overbite as soon as possible will protect your teeth against lasting damage and prevent the condition from worsening. Receiving treatment for an overbite also makes it easier to clean your teeth, allowing you to protect yourself against gum disease and other dental problems. Some additional complications you can avoid by receiving orthodontic treatment for your excessive overbite include:

  • Persistent pain

  • Decay or loss of teeth

  • Difficulty chewing

  • Gum disease

  • Issues speaking

Customized treatments for overbite

Rappahannock Orthodontics offers two overbite correction treatments that we can customize to fit your orthodontic needs. The first option is our metal or ceramic braces, which consist of two stages. During the first stage, Dr. Caspersen or Dr. Lowe will attach braces to your upper and lower teeth to apply constant pressure that will gradually align them. The second stage involves the use of rubber bands or elastics to correct your overbite slowly over time for a long-lasting beautiful smile.

The second treatment option is Invisalign®. Similar to braces, an Invisalign clear aligner will apply constant pressure to your teeth to slowly move your jaw into the correct position. Every few weeks, you will receive a new aligner to ensure your teeth and jaw continue to move into place correctly.

Schedule a free overbite consultation today

If you are looking for world-class care to correct your overbite, Rappahannock Orthodontics is here for you. Our entire staff is passionate about helping our patients achieve their best smiles. Many team members have years of experience in the orthodontics field and use this knowledge to create personalized care that meets your needs. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, you will feel at home the second you enter our office.

With two convenient locations in the Fredericksburg and Stafford areas, it’s easier than ever to visit our office for your free overbite consultation. To learn more about our services or request an appointment at our offices, please call 540-371-2611. We look forward to helping you improve your smile!