An overbite is a common dental issue where the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth. While an overbite can certainly impact the appearance of your smile and your confidence, the problems an overbite can cause extend beyond aesthetics.
Many people with an overbite wonder if this condition can lead to jaw pain or other health issues. What are some of the most common problems people can experience with an untreated overbite? Here’s how an overbite can affect your jaw and overall health.
An Overbite Can Increase Your Risk of Gum Disease
Research shows that people who have overbites may be more at risk of developing gum disease [1]. The reason for this isn’t clear, although studies have found that people with overbites have deeper periodontal pockets, which are associated with gum disease, and more bone loss, which is also associated with gum disease.
The Link Between Overbites and Jaw Pain
If you have an overbite and experience jaw pain, you’re likely wondering if the overbite is the cause. However, research shows that overbites are generally not risk factors for developing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, meaning if you experience clicking or popping noises in your jaw or muscle tension, an overbite may not be the primary cause [2].
However, an overbite can lead to uneven tooth wear and even soft tissue trauma in the mouth [3]. When the teeth don’t fit together properly, people can experience unusual enamel wear, which can lead to tooth sensitivity, discoloration, and even an increased risk for cavities.
Other Health Issues Linked to Overbites
Aside from jaw pain, an overbite can be associated with other health concerns, including:
- Breathing problems. There is some evidence that malocclusions such as overbite can lead to sleep-disordered breathing, including disorders like sleep apnea [4].
- Digestive issues. It’s also possible that severe overbites can lead to digestive problems because people can’t chew as well and may swallow larger food particles that can be difficult to digest [5].
As you can see, an untreated overbite has the potential to lead to more than cosmetic concerns in some patients.
Do You Have an Overbite?
Treatment is available for overbites, and they are one of the simpler bite problems to fix. If you’re experiencing jaw pain, tooth sensitivity, or even digestive issues that you believe may be linked to your overbite, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. They can provide a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment options to help you achieve a healthier smile and relieve any associated health concerns.
Sources:
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8117363/
- https://files.jofph.com/files/article/20231222-633/pdf/jop_19_3_Hirsch_5.pdf
- https://www.nature.com/articles/sj.bdj.2014.953
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7954063/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9160782/
