Did you know that everyone has a slight overbite problem? While some people have a severely dysfunctional bite, others have a degree of overlap. However, it only becomes a cause for concern if the lower jaw gets overshadowed by the top half or vice versa. Plus, depending on the shape of your mouth when relaxed, you can determine if your bite is straight or misaligned. Although to get a professional evaluation, consult a dentist. If you want more insight into what causes your jaw to slip up or if your overbite is normal, keep reading this blog.
What is an Overbite?
An overbite is a result of misaligned teeth. It usually occurs when your upper jaw sticks out over the lower jaw. This can make it seem like you have buck teeth or that your front teeth are coming out and covering the bottom teeth.
However, it is important to keep in mind that overbite can take place due to a variety of reasons. Sometimes its genetic, and other times it is brought forth by external habits and acts, such as sucking your thumb or biting your nails. Nevertheless, to treat an overbite, finding out what type of overbite you’re dealing with is important. Here are the three categories of overbite you need to know about:
- Skeletal Overbite
Occurs due to a genetic impairment of the jaw where it develops irregularly, leading to dental problems. - Dental Overbite
This results from external pressure while the teeth and jaw are still growing, especially during childhood. It can be due to overcrowding, losing teeth, or habits like using a pacifier for too long and sucking on your thumb. - Impinging Overbite
Known to be the most dangerous, this type of overbite is incredibly severe, so much so that it causes your lower teeth to graze the upper palate of the mouth. Typically it occurs due to facial trauma.
Is Overbite Normal?
Despite its harmful effects, overbite is normal to some degree. A slight overlap of your teeth and jaw is considered normal. As long as you can’t feel your lower teeth touch the top of your mouth, you have nothing to worry about. However, if you start experiencing troubles in the jaw or teeth area, coupled with difficulty eating, schedule an appointment with your orthodontist as soon as you can.
Common Causes of Overbite
As common as an overbite is, many external and internal causes tend to trigger it, such as:
- Habitually biting nails
- Bruxism — constantly grinding or clenching teeth.
- Sucking on the thumb or finger.
- Using a pacifier above the age of 3 or older.
- Genetic buildup.
- Overcrowding of teeth.
Want To Fix Your Overbite?
A certain level of overbite is normal. However, if it starts interrupting your day-to-day life, causing problems, a dental evaluation might be in need. For more information on the matter, contact Waller Dental at (936) 372-2673. You can also drop by our clinic at 31315 Farm to Market 2920 #16a, Waller, TX 77484, at the heart of Waller Village.