Buck teeth are more than a quirky characteristic – they can actually cause harm if left untreated.
The two orthodontic treatments most often asked about regarding buck teeth correction for adults and children are braces and Invisalign. In this blog, we answer both questions: “Can Invisalign fix buck teeth?” and “Can braces fix buck teeth?”
Keep reading to learn how to get buck teeth fixed so that you can regain confidence in your smile.
What Are Buck Teeth?
Protruding front teeth – or “buck teeth” – are when your top teeth jut out over your lower teeth.
Dentists and orthodontists classify buck teeth as an “overbite,” “overjet,” or “malocclusion.” Without getting too technical, these terms mean that a person’s teeth don’t meet correctly when they bite down—we’ll use them interchangeably in this blog.
Overbites are a common problem that dental professionals have been treating for years. In fact, a 2020 study suggested that the worldwide prevalence of malocclusion among children and adolescents was 56 percent.
Buck teeth are hereditary, but they can also be traced back to bad habits from childhood.
Causes of Buck Teeth
- Injury
- Genetics
- Thumb sucking
- Tongue thrusting
- Prolonged pacifier use
- Irregular or overcrowded teeth
You can comfortably live with buck teeth if the malocclusion is minor. However, those with severe overbites will need orthodontic treatment to avoid oral health complications. Buck teeth can also lead to emotional pain such as embarrassment and low self-esteem.
Many people live with buck teeth and choose not to treat them. Others prefer to look into buck teeth correction for adults or children. As with most things, the sooner buck teeth are treated, the better.
Now, let’s talk about how to get buck teeth fixed.
How to Get Buck Teeth Fixed
Two common fixes for buck teeth are braces and Invisalign.
In extreme cases, surgery may be necessary – in conjunction with orthodontic treatment. But before jumping to conclusions, schedule a consultation with a local orthodontist who can determine what steps you need to take.
In this section, we explain how to get buck teeth fixed.
Can Braces Fix Buck Teeth?
Since braces are the most traditional orthodontic treatment for teeth alignment, the question “Can braces fix buck teeth?” is not uncommon.
The answer is yes; braces can fix buck teeth. But how can braces fix buck teeth?
Braces use a metal wire threaded through brackets, which is increased in size at follow-up appointments to help shift teeth into alignment. The wire is held in place by small, colored elastics, which have no effect on teeth alignment itself but give braces their identifiable look.
To correct an overbite (i.e., buck teeth), another kind of orthodontic elastics – class II rubber bands – must be used. Class II rubber bands connect to the lower molars at the back of your jaw to the upper teeth near the front of your jaw. This elastic pressure gradually pulls the upper and lower teeth into alignment when biting down.
Wearing your rubber bands as prescribed will help keep your treatment on schedule. Without elastics, braces alone can only do so much. Treatment time depends on both you and your orthodontist, so be a team player!
If you want a more inconspicuous, modern alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign is a great option.
Can Invisalign Fix Buck Teeth?
Does Invisalign work for buck teeth?
Yes, if you don’t want the semi-permanency of braces, Invisalign can also fix buck teeth.
If Invisalign is the right treatment for you, your orthodontist will take a 3D scan of your mouth instead of impressions. The scan is then sent to a lab that forms clear trays that specifically fit your teeth. You will switch trays frequently as your teeth shift until they have aligned.
Similar to the Class II rubber bands for braces, Invisalign aligner attachments help orthodontists treat malocclusions like buck teeth.
“Invisalign buttons” are small, tooth-colored bumps bonded to specific teeth in strategic places. For those with an overbite or underbite, rubber bands attach to these buttons located on both top and bottom teeth, pulling the jaw backward or forward as needed.
Pictures of Invisalign before and after buck teeth can dramatically change patients’ views of themselves. We love seeing the results of orthodontic treatment because it makes every patient proud of their smile!
Keep in mind that Invisalign may not be the right solution for everyone with buck teeth. Be sure to consult with an orthodontist who can provide you with the best options for your unique dental needs.
Explore Buck Teeth Correction for Adults and Children
Can braces fix buck teeth? Yes!
Can Invisalign fix buck teeth? Also yes!
Depending on the severity of your condition, it could take between six months and two years to fix an overbite. Your overbite can be safely and efficiently corrected with the right orthodontist and treatment type.
At Bates Orthodontics, we have experience correcting buck teeth and other dental misalignment issues using braces and Invisalign. We even offer Lightforce: custom braces that cut down your treatment time compared to traditional braces.
Our mission is to bring smiles to life using the best treatment types available in orthodontia.
If you’re interested in learning more about buck teeth correction for adults and children, book a free consultation today!
