How long do overbites take to fix with braces? The answer might surprise you!
As overbites are one of the most common dental problems, many people may not realize the effects are more than just cosmetic. Overbites can actually cause numerous health problems.
That’s why it’s essential to correct overbites as soon as possible. Luckily, overbite correction is a relatively easy process you can complete in as little as six months.
Want to learn more about overbites and how orthodontists fix them?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at overbites and answer some of the most common questions, including:
- What is an overbite?
- How is an overbite corrected?
- Can braces get rid of an overbite?
- How do orthodontists fix overbites?
- How long do overbites take to fix?
- Do you need braces to fix an overbite?
- How long do braces take to fix an overbite?
Keep reading to learn more about overbite correction and how your orthodontist can help fix overbites.
Note: The general public often uses the term “overbite” when referring to top teeth that extend too far beyond lower teeth. However, orthodontists actually call this an “overjet.” In this article, we’ll use “overbite” to refer to any misalignment in the upper vs. lower teeth.
What Is An Overbite?
An overbite is a malocclusion (misalignment) that occurs when the upper teeth and lower teeth don’t align properly. In a normal bite, there is a slight overlap in the teeth. However, an overbite occurs when this overlap is too large.
An overbite can occur for many reasons, the most common being:
- Genetics
- Abnormal jaw growth
- Extended thumb/finger sucking
- Regularly chewing on hard objects
An overbite will often be recognizable in early childhood years, but sometimes it can start developing later in the teen or adult years.
There are also different severities of overbites. Depending on the severity, the importance of an overbite correction and its treatment timeframe will vary from patient to patient.
Why Is Overbite Correction Important?
You might think of overbite correction as simply a cosmetic concern, but overbites can cause subsequent issues that eventually lead to long-term health problems if not corrected.
Some of the most common problems associated with overbites include:
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Headaches
- Neck pain
- Sleep apnea
- Ground down teeth
In severe cases, an overbite may lead to jaw issues and tooth decay if left untreated. The severity of your overbite can impact how long it takes to fix an overbite – and the need to get the procedure done quickly. That’s why it’s so important to correct overbites as soon as possible.
So, in the vein of correcting an overbite, let’s look at two of the most common questions, “How is an overbite corrected?” and “How long does it take to correct overbites?”
How Is An Overbite Corrected?
Overbite correction is possible – and relatively quick and easy – in most cases. The first step is to meet with your orthodontist for an initial consultation.
So, how do orthodontists fix overbites?
During your first visit, your dentist or orthodontist will assess the severity of your overbite and determine the best course of treatment. They’ll likely recommend one of these common methods for correcting overbites:
- Braces: Can braces get rid of an overbite? Yes! Traditional braces can get rid of overbites and are the most common method for correcting them. Braces typically take six to twelve months to correct overbites, depending on overbite severity.
- Invisalign: Invisalign is a newer treatment method that uses a series of clear plastic aligners to correct overbites. Invisalign typically takes about the same time as braces to fix an overbite and is a good option for people who don’t want to wear metal braces.
- Surgery and Alignment: In more severe cases, you might need surgery in conjunction with alignment treatment (braces or Invisalign) to correct your overbite. Surgery is the most extreme option, and your orthodontist may refer you to a jaw specialist if other methods have failed.
Additionally, each of these methods will require that you wear rubber bands at some point during your treatment to remedy your overbite.
The type of treatment your orthodontist recommends will depend on the severity of your overbite and your individual needs.
How Do Braces Help An Overbite?
Braces gently move your teeth into the correct position, eventually correcting the overbite.
For braces to improve your overbite, you typically have to wear them for an extended period of time (about six months to two years). If you have a mild to moderate overbite, braces may be the best treatment option for you.
The process for getting braces or Invisalign to correct an overbite is straightforward. Traditional braces come in standard sizes, so your orthodontist won’t need to take any impressions or scans of your teeth. Once it’s decided that this is the method, your orthodontist will start attaching brackets to your teeth and then put the wire through the brackets. However, there’s also a new 3D printing technology called LightForce that some orthodontists (like Bates Orthodontics) can use to create a more custom braces treatment. It does require your orthodontist to take a scan of your teeth to correctly fabricate your brackets.
If you decide to go with Invisalign, your orthodontist will take a 3D scan of your teeth in order to ensure the Invisalign trays properly fit your bite.
Once you have your braces or Invisalign trays, you’ll wear them and get them adjusted according to your orthodontist’s recommended schedule. Over time, the braces/trays and rubber bands will slowly move your teeth into alignment and help fix your overbite.
Braces aren’t necessarily a quick fix. Wearing braces or Invisalign trays to get rid of an overbite takes time and patience, but it’s worth it in the end!
How Long Do Overbites Take To Fix?
So, how long to fix an overbite?
It depends on the severity and your commitment to following through on your treatment!
If you have a more severe overbite, you may need to wear your braces for up to two years. But if you have a mild overbite, braces may be able to fix the overbite in as little as six months.
Regardless of your treatment timeframe, it’s always important to follow your orthodontist’s instructions closely. If you deviate from your orthodontist’s recommendations, you may experience some setbacks in your treatment.
Every overbite correction is different and treatment length varies depending on your needs. But you can achieve your dream smile with patience and diligent treatment!
Do You Need Braces To Fix An Overbite?
In most cases, yes, you do need braces (or Invisalign) for successful overbite correction. It’s very rare for an overbite to fix itself, especially in more severe cases.
Remember that braces are only effective if you stick to your orthodontist’s recommended schedule. If you deviate from your treatment plan, the braces might not correct your overbite properly.
But with time and dedication, braces can safely and effectively correct your overbite – revealing your healthiest and happiest smile.
Enjoy Successful Overbite Correction With Bates Orthodontics
With the right orthodontist and set of braces, you can correct your overbite in as little as six months. Severe overbites might take longer to correct, but most people will notice a significant improvement in their overbite within two years of starting treatment.
Looking for a skilled orthodontist for your son or daughter? Or, maybe you’re an adult who’s finally ready to get the straight smile you’ve always wanted?
At Bates Orthodontics, we specialize in correcting overbites with braces (and other alignment issues!). We understand that every case is different, and we work with you to design the best treatment plan for your needs. Our team can help answer all of your questions, like:
- How long do overbites take to fix?
- How do orthodontists fix overbites?
- How is an overbite corrected?
- Do you need braces to fix an overbite?
- Do I need a jaw brace for overbites?
If you’re considering braces to fix an overbite, please contact our office for a consultation. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you get started on your journey to a straighter, healthier smile!
