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:

1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8117363/
2. https://files.jofph.com/files/article/20231222-633/pdf/jop_19_3_Hirsch_5.pdf
3. https://www.nature.com/articles/sj.bdj.2014.953
4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7954063/
5. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9160782/

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Here, we take a closer look at the causes of overbites to help patients understand this common alignment problem and make informed decisions about their dental care. 

Genetic Factors

Many overbites are inherited traits passed down through families. Genetic factors influence jaw development, tooth positioning, and overall mouth structure. This means that if one or both of your parents have an overbite, you’re more likely to have one as well. The size and shape of your jaw and teeth are largely determined by genetics, which can naturally lead to the development of an overbite [1].

Developmental Causes

During childhood, several habits and behaviors can contribute to overbite development, including prolonged thumb-sucking or pacifier use, extended bottle feeding beyond the recommended age, and tongue thrusting [2].

Often, parents don’t realize that these things are a problem until the bite has already developed improperly. Regular dental checkups can ensure that a child’s bite development is on track and minimize the risk of an overbite.

Certain Habits

Some children have habits that can cause an overbite to form, including nail biting, chewing on objects such as pens, and even mouth breathing.  Children may breathe through their mouth due to allergies or congestion, so resolving these concerns is important for both your child’s health and proper bite development.

Existing Tooth Issues

In some cases, losing baby teeth too early or too late or impacted teeth can affect jaw development and lead to an overbite. When baby teeth are lost prematurely, the remaining teeth may shift to fill the gap, creating misalignment that can develop into an overbite as permanent teeth emerge.

Additionally, retained baby teeth can force permanent teeth to erupt in incorrect positions, altering the natural bite pattern. Impacted teeth, particularly in the front of the mouth, can create pressure on surrounding teeth and cause them to shift forward, gradually contributing to the development of an overbite over time.

How an Overbite Impacts Oral Health

Untreated overbites can lead to various oral health complications. The misalignment often causes excessive wear on certain teeth, potentially leading to enamel erosion and increased sensitivity.

Patients may experience difficulty biting and chewing properly, which can affect digestion and nutrition. Some people with an overbite develop speech impediments or experience jaw pain and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Research also shows that improper bites, such as overbites, can increase a patient’s risk for periodontal (gum) disease, making addressing this alignment issue important [3].

Get Treatment for Your Overbite

Whether an overbite has impacted the appearance or function of your teeth, there is treatment available. Braces, clear aligners, and other orthodontic appliances can help properly align your bite and prevent more serious complications, such as chronic pain or gum disease. Contact your orthodontist today to discover your options for overbite treatment.

Sources:

1. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21473-overbite#symptoms-and-causes
2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6106723/ 
3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8117363/

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However, Invisalign isn’t just for crooked teeth. Invisalign can fix the majority of tooth and jaw alignment issues where traditional braces would normally be the only option. What other cases can Invisalign help?

Gapped Teeth

Gapped teeth are a concern for many patients. For some people, the gaps in their smile will lessen as they age, but for others, the gaps are there to stay. When you want to close the gaps between your teeth, Invisalign is an effective form of treatment that can discreetly move your teeth closer together to create a uniform smile you can enjoy for life!

Overbites

Overbites are one of the most common issues that are fixed with traditional orthodontics. However, Invisalign is also adept at treating overbites, including deep overbites [2]. If your orthodontist has told you that you have an overbite, ask him or her about Invisalign to correct your bite and deliver a beautiful, functional smile.

Underbites

Underbites tend to be more obvious than overbites, but not in all cases. Underbites can cause chronic jaw pain and difficulty speaking and chewing, and these problems typically become worse over time rather than improving. Fortunately, when you need to correct your underbite, you have the option of going with Invisalign to correct your bite!

For a Straighter Smile

Invisalign provides an overall straighter smile. For people who don’t necessarily have crooked teeth but want to improve the general appearance of their smile, Invisalign provides a way to gradually straighten your teeth with invisible treatment [3]. One of the best benefits of Invisalign is that it’s removable, allowing you to care for your teeth and gums just as you would without orthodontic treatment for brighter, more even teeth.

Is Invisalign Right for You?

While Invisalign can treat the majority of orthodontic cases, there are some people who will need more extensive treatment where an option such as traditional braces would be more effective. Is it time to ask your orthodontist about Invisalign? Adults and kids alike love the discreet treatment of Invisalign for a beautiful, straight smile!

Sources:
1. https://www.invisalign.com/frequently-asked-questions
2. http://www.jdentaled.org/content/72/8/948
3. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/braces-have-changed-metal-tooth-
colored-clear

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Jaw tightness can range from mild to severe and be most painful when moving the jaw, such as
when chewing or speaking. In fact, some people experience such severe jaw tightness that they
feel the discomfort radiate throughout their face and neck.

But what exactly causes jaw tightness? The following are the most common causes of this
painful condition that may require professional treatment.

Bruxism

Bruxism, the technical term for teeth grinding, can cause the muscles in your jaw and face to
experience tension. Sometimes, this tension can cause headaches if left untreated.
Teeth grinding can have numerous causes, with the most common being stress and an
improper bite. When the upper and lower teeth don’t fit together correctly, it can make teeth
grinding more likely to occur.

If you’re grinding your teeth, you may be doing it at night while you sleep or during times of
stress and not realize it. Symptoms of teeth grinding include a sore jaw, unexplained
headaches, and aching teeth. Fortunately, you can protect your teeth from grinding—you may
need a nightly mouthguard, orthodontic treatment, or stress management to help stop this
harmful habit.

TMJ Disorder

When your temporomandibular joint doesn’t work correctly, it can put undue stress on the
surrounding muscles. This stress can cause pain and tightness in the jaw, and you may even
have ear pain, neck pain, or headaches as well.

TMJ disorders will need a professional diagnosis to be treated. Depending on what’s causing
your TMJ pain, you may be able to engage in stress management to help the problem go away.
For others—such as those whose TMJ pain is caused by an external factor such as a misaligned
bite—further treatment may be necessary.

Symptoms of a TMJ disorder include not being able to fully open your mouth, clicking noises
when moving the jaw, or general jaw pain even when the jaw is at rest.

Improper Bite

If your teeth don’t properly align, your jaw won’t be able to function as well as it needs to. An
improper bite, such as an open bite, crossbite, underbite, or overbite, can cause uneven wear
on the teeth and strain on the jaw muscles.

Fortunately, most misaligned bites can be treated with simple orthodontic appliances. Your
dentist can normally tell if your bite is off and refer you to an orthodontist if necessary. Don’t
ignore an incorrect bite—a healthy bite can help reduce your jaw pain!

Are you experiencing uncomfortable jaw tightness and don’t know the cause? Your dentist can
help you determine what’s causing your pain and work with you to implement a successful
treatment plan to fix it. When jaw tightness is impacting your life, don’t wait to seek help!

The post What Causes Jaw Tightness? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

The main cause of an underbite is usually genetic and not something that can be prevented,
although in rarer cases thumb sucking, mouth breathing, or prolonged bottle feeding in
childhood can have the potential to cause an underbite.

Fortunately, there are several options to effectively treat your underbite so that you can have a
pain-free, healthy smile. What are your treatment options for an underbite?

Orthodontics

Your individual case will be unique, but in many instances, orthodontics can work to correct an
underbite. Your treatment options will include traditional braces along with other options such
as Invisalign in the event that you don’t want visible braces.

Only a professional orthodontist can tell you if you qualify for orthodontic treatment for an underbite, so don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your orthodontist or ask for a referral from your dentist to discover your underbite treatment choices through orthodontics.

Upper Jaw Expander

An upper jaw expander is a wire device that is fitted into your mouth. This device is not
removable during the time that it’s worn, but is intended to be adjusted daily at home. An
upper jaw expander will actually help your upper jaw to become wider and therefore alleviate
your underbite.

In many cases, people who suffer from underbites will have to wear the device for about a
year’s time and then wear a retainer afterward to prevent teeth shifting. This device is typically
managed by your orthodontist, so he or she can let you know more about what to expect!

Headgear

Headgear is a device that typically attaches to the molars in your mouth and includes a band
that wraps around the head or neck. Headgear has many applications in orthodontics, including
pulling the upper jaw back in a position called a “reverse pull”.

Headgear can accelerate orthodontic treatment time and can help effectively alleviate both the
appearance and symptoms of your underbite. Headgear is typically only worn at night and for
no more than 12 hours a day, so ask your orthodontist if headgear may be able to help your
treatment for your underbite.

Surgery

In rare cases, you may need to have jaw surgery to correct your underbite. During this
procedure, an oral surgeon will modify the bone in your jaw to reposition the lower jaw farther
back. For the majority of patients, surgery will not be necessary. However, in extreme cases,
surgery may be the most direct and beneficial option to fully correct an underbite.

Do you suffer from an underbite that’s hindering your smile’s function and appearance?
Underbites can be successfully treated, in many cases by an orthodontist. Schedule an
appointment with your dentist today to discuss your possibilities and, if necessary, get a
referral to a trusted orthodontist to help treat your underbite!

The post What Are Treatment Options to Correct My Underbite? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Here are a few signs and symptoms that might be trying to tell you that you have an improper
bite and need treatment to feel better!

Your Teeth Don’t Align

Sometimes detecting an improper bite is as simple as noticing that the teeth are crooked or do
not line up properly, or, are uncomfortable when smiling. In fact, seeing an improper bite may
be most apparent when you smile, although not everyone will have a noticeable misaligned
bite. Your dentist will be able to tell and help you with treatment or can refer you to an
orthodontist for treatment if necessary.

You Have Jaw Pain

When your upper and lower jaw don’t quite fit together, it can put more pressure on the joint
that connects your jaw to your skull. Most patients have heard of this joint, called the
temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Improper bites play a big role in TMJ pain and symptoms,
making it important to address the root cause of your discomfort rather than just living with the
problem.

An improper bite can cause the joint to become strained and can put pressure on the joint,
which can cause sore jaw muscles, jaw pain, and even headaches. If you’re experiencing any of
these symptoms, an improper bite may be to blame!

You Grind Your Teeth

Teeth grinding, also referred to as bruxism, is an unfortunate common habit. It’s also one that’s
extremely dangerous to your smile and can cause irreversible wear on your natural teeth. If you
have a misaligned bite, you may be more likely to grind your teeth since your teeth won’t fit
together properly.

Since bruxism can cause premature wear of the teeth, tooth sensitivity, inflamed gum tissue,
and even tooth loss, you should never wait to seek help this worrying habit that could be a
symptom of an improper bite!

You Have Uneven Tooth Wear

Teeth that fit together in a proper bite should wear evenly as the years go by. Teeth that don’t
fit together will often experience uneven tooth wear, which can cause some teeth to wear
down more than others. Unfortunately, this premature wear can also cause tooth sensitivity
and decay. When the enamel is worn away, your tooth is no longer protected, which gives rise
to a host of dental problems. A misaligned bite is often to blame for uneven tooth wear.

Fortunately, many children receive orthodontic care which can correct their bite as they enter
adulthood. However, it’s never too late to receive the care you need to correct your bite even
as an adult. Schedule a consultation with your dentist or orthodontist today to discover if the
symptoms you’re experiencing are resulting from an improper bite that can be treated!

The post How Do I Know If I Have an Improper Bite? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

How long do problems with the TMJ last? Here’s what you can expect based on the cause of your TMJ problems as determined by a dentist.

If the Cause Is Genetic

For some people, the cause of their issues with the TMJ are genetic. Everyone has a differently shaped mouth and jaw, and for some people, these shapes just don’t fit well together. For some of these patients, surgery or orthodontics may be able to remedy the problem. For others, their TMJ pain won’t be able to be cured, but managed, making TMJ last a lifetime.

Only a professional dentist can determine the cause of your TMJ disorder, so don’t attempt to self-diagnose in an effort to treat your pain at home. With the right diagnosis, you’ll receive the right treatment!

If the Cause Is Malocclusion

Malocclusion, an improper bite, can cause problems with the TMJ. A malocclusion could include an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite. Fortunately, simple orthodontics can treat the majority of cases in these bites. For some severe cases, surgery may be needed, but for most, braces can help alleviate TMJ pain.

If your dentist suspects you’re suffering from TMJ pain as a result of an improper bite, he or she can refer you to an orthodontist who can further evaluate the problem and discuss a treatment plan with you to permanently fix your TMJ discomfort.

If the Cause Is Stress

For still some other patients, a combination of problems will cause their TMJ disorder. Some patients have recurring TMJ pain due to stress. In cases like these, TMJ is likely temporary, especially if there is no additional underlying cause to be found.

If your dentist isn’t finding an additional cause, stress management techniques can help you reduce any stiffness, soreness, or tension that you’re experiencing as a result of problems with your TMJ. Stress management techniques may be different for different people, with the most common being relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, therapy, and exercise.

Other Causes

There are other causes of TMJ disorders, including teeth grinding, which is also referred to as bruxism. Bruxism can absolutely be treated which can help alleviate stress on your TMJ. The exact cause of your TMJ disorder may be a combination of causes, so working with a professional gives you your best chance to help alleviate your pain.

Are you experiencing TMJ pain and are afraid it will last for life? For many people, their TMJ pain is treatable if not curable. Visiting your dentist is the first step in identifying what is causing your TMJ discomfort and what your treatment steps should be. Seeking help for your TMJ pain sooner rather than later can help you avoid unnecessary pain and stress!

The post How Long Does TMJ Last? Is It Permanent? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

What can cause jaw tightness? There are several different reasons behind tense jaw muscles that may be causing your discomfort. By identifying the root of the problem, you can help alleviate your jaw pain!

You Have a TMJ Disorder

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most complex joints in the human body. It connects your upper jaw to your lower jaw and enables your jaw to move up and down and from side to side.

Since the TMJ is so complex, it’s susceptible to problems. When your joint doesn’t work
properly due to an improper bite, arthritis, or an injury, it can cause chronic pain and jaw
tightness that’s difficult to live with.

Fortunately, there is treatment for TMJ disorders. Your dentist can perform a simple evaluation to determine if your TMJ is being impacted by a disorder and talk with you about treatment.

You Grind Your Teeth

Bruxism, the technical term for teeth grinding, can be immensely damaging to both your teeth and your jaw. Grinding your teeth puts intense stress on your TMJ and your pearly whites. In some cases, bruxism can cause teeth to fracture or completely wear down.

Teeth grinding happens for a variety of reasons, but one of the main causes is stress. In fact, you may be grinding your teeth while sleeping and not even know it! Your dentist can tell if your grind your teeth by conducting a simple exam.

If you’re a teeth grinder, you could be putting concentrated pressure on your jaw muscles, leading to a constant feeling of tightness even when you’re not grinding your teeth.

You Have an Improper Bite

When your teeth don’t fit together properly, this can cause an improper bite, also called a malocclusion. Malocclusions range from overbites and underbites to open bites and cross bites. These types of bites range from mild to severe and can all cause jaw pain, especially when chewing, speaking, or smiling. Improper bites are usually inherited from your parents and can fortunately be fixed with orthodontics.

If a malocclusion is causing your jaw tightness, speak with your dentist about what treatment in the form of orthodontia might look like!

You Have Arthritis

In some cases, jaw tightness may be caused by rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. In fact, the majority of people with rheumatoid arthritis have some type of TMJ pain, as the
inflammation may impact the joint.

Osteoarthritis is rarer but can happen in the TMJ, where it can cause loss of healthy tissue including cartilage and will impact the function of your jaw. Both people with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis may experience painful jaw tightness.

Are you experiencing jaw tightness that’s impacting your life? A painful jaw can be caused by a variety of problems from teeth grinding to arthritis and malocclusions. Your dentist can help you determine the cause of your jaw tightness and work with you to implement a successful treatment plan!

The post What Are the Causes of Jaw Tightness? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

At this age, your child is still shedding their primary teeth and getting their permanent teeth in.
Their mouths are growing and flexible. At this age, some orthodontic issues may be present,
such as a bad bite and crooked or crowded teeth.

Getting your child evaluated for orthodontia at a young age has numerous benefits that your
child will thank you for in the future!

Facilitate Good Oral Hygiene

If your child’s teeth are crowded or crooked, they can be difficult to clean. In addition, children
are still developing their brushing habits, so it’s likely that every area that needs to be cleaned
in the mouth isn’t getting cleaned. With the right orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist can
make room for all your child’s teeth to safely and healthily emerge.

For people who have overcrowded teeth, it can be impossible to get in-between all the tight
spaces where plaque, bacteria, and food particles accumulate. With orthodontic intervention at
the proper age, you can get those teeth into their proper positions and help prevent cavities
and gum disease as your child grows up!

Correct Serious Bite Problems

At the age of 7, your child’s jaw is still growing. Your orthodontist should be able to evaluate
your child’s bite and determine if early orthodontic treatment is necessary. Your child may
suffer from an overbite, underbite, open bite, or crossbite. Bad bites do more than affect your
child’s appearance—they can lead to jaw pain, headaches, and trouble chewing and speaking.

Early orthodontic treatment catches your child’s jaw while it’s still growing and can fix a bad
bite before it becomes problematic or painful for your child. It can also save you and your child
future stress from dealing with the bite as the jaw becomes more mature and more difficult to
fix as they get older.

Save Time and Money

Since orthodontic treatment that’s facilitated early on in your child’s life can halt problems
before they have a chance to develop, this can save you time and money in the future. Your
child’s bones are still flexible, so their treatment can be faster and more effective. Consulting
with an orthodontist at the proper age is often cheaper than waiting to seek treatment.

In addition, your child will have a healthy foundation for all their permanent teeth to come in
properly, therefore potentially eliminating the need for future orthodontic work, and
sometimes even helping to halt the progression of tooth decay or gum disease, as your child
will be able to more easily clean teeth that are in the correct positions, and not crowded or
crooked.

Orthodontic treatment is necessary for many children to have a healthy smile for life. Have you
gotten your child evaluated by a professional orthodontist yet? It’s never too late to begin
correcting you or your child’s smile. Schedule a consultation today to discover how you can
create a healthy foundation for your child’s oral health for life!

The post What Are the Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Are you suffering from jaw misalignment? If you’re experiencing the following symptoms, your upper and lower jaw might have trouble fitting together. A simple exam and x-rays can tell if your jaw is misaligned and if so, what you can do about it.

Pain in Your Jaw or Face

If you have generalized pain in your jaw or in your face, you may have a jaw misalignment. This pain may happen either when chewing or speaking or even when the jaw is at rest. When the pain consistently happens, it’s time to schedule an appointment to see if your jaw could be the culprit behind your pain.

Mouth Breathing

Saliva is an important aspect of your oral cavity. It helps teeth stay nourished and prevents them from drying out. When the mouth becomes dry, saliva can become acidic and damage the enamel on your teeth, leading to an increased risk for cavities. When you breathe through your mouth rather than through your nose, your mouth can become dry and this can affect your teeth.

Although mouth breathing happens under certain circumstances—such as when you have a cold—regular mouth breathing that occurs on a daily basis may point to a jaw misalignment. Getting this symptom checked out is essential to help your mouth protect your teeth from future problems.

Trouble Speaking

If it’s painful for you to speak at times or consistently, a jaw misalignment may be to blame. You may also be experiencing difficulty pronouncing certain words. These symptoms could mean your jaw is preventing you from speaking properly or being able to speak without pain. It isn’t normal to experience pain when speaking, so an evaluation with your dentist can help determine the problem.

What Treatment Is Available?

Many people have a jaw misalignment and don’t realize it. Overbites and underbites are two of the most common types of malocclusions, or misaligned bites. As we’ve seen, these bites can interfere with many aspects of your life, including eating, breathing, speaking, chewing, and self-confidence.

Fortunately, misaligned jaws can be treated. Depending on the unique alignment of your jaw as well as the severity of the misalignment, you may be able to receive orthodontic treatment, cosmetic dentistry work, or other procedures to help put your jaw back in place and stop your pain and discomfort.

Are you seeing symptoms of jaw misalignment in your daily life? An incorrect bite can be fixed, so schedule an appointment with your dentist or orthodontist today to discuss how a jaw misalignment may be impacting your life. You can live pain-free and have confidence in your smile again with treatment!

The post If You’re Experiencing These Symptoms, You Could Be Suffering from Jaw Misalignment appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.