Increased Overjet: Types, Treatment Options, and Importance of Early Intervention
An increased overjet, commonly known as "buck teeth," is a condition where the upper front teeth protrude significantly beyond the lower front teeth horizontally. This orthodontic issue can impact both children and adults, affecting not only the aesthetics of the smile but also overall oral health. In this blog, we'll delve into the types of increased overjet, available treatment options, and the crucial benefits of seeking early intervention.
Types of Increased Overjet
Occurs due to the disproportionate relationship between the upper and lower jaws, often caused by genetic factors.
Results from the positioning of the teeth rather than skeletal discrepancies. It may be due to thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or other oral habits.
Treatment Options
Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several effective treatment options for correcting increased overjet and enhancing smile aesthetics. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the overjet, the underlying cause, and the patient's preferences. Here are some common treatment options
Traditional braces can gradually align the teeth and correct the overjet by applying gentle pressure to move them into proper alignment.
These transparent, removable trays offer a more discreet option for correcting overjet, especially favored by adults and teens.
Designed to modify jaw growth and position, these devices are often used in younger patients to address skeletal overjet.
In severe cases of skeletal overjet, surgery may be necessary to reposition the jaws and achieve optimal facial harmony
Benefits of Getting Treatment Done
Seeking treatment for increased overjet offers numerous benefits beyond just improving the appearance of your smile. Here are some compelling reasons to consider getting treatment done
Correcting an increased overjet can enhance facial symmetry and boost self-confidence, leading to a more attractive smile.
Properly aligned teeth and jaws facilitate better chewing, speech articulation, and overall oral function.
Protruding front teeth are more susceptible to injury from falls or accidents. Aligning them reduces this risk, promoting oral safety.
Untreated overjet can contribute to various dental issues, including gum disease, tooth decay, and temporomandibular joint disorders. Timely intervention helps prevent these complications.
Ill-effects of Not Getting Treatment Done
While some individuals may choose to live with their increased overjet, neglecting treatment can have consequences, both aesthetically and orally. Here are some potential drawbacks of not addressing increased overjet
Increased overjet can lead to difficulty in cleaning between teeth, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease.
Protruding front teeth can interfere with proper pronunciation, causing speech impediments or lisps.
Visible dental irregularities may lead to social anxiety, low self-esteem, and reluctance to smile openly.
Untreated overjet can affect bite function, making it challenging to bite and chew food properly.
