Overbite - what exactly is it and how to treat it

Overbite - what exactly is it and how to treat it

On 6 March 202425 June 2024In Orthodontic treatment, Polish Dentist in the UK

Ankylosis is a malocclusion in which the upper and lower teeth do not meet properly. And what are the causes and what are the ways to correct this malocclusion - welcome to the article.

What is an overbite

As we mentioned at the beginning, retrograde bite is one of the malocclusions. In this case, the upper jaw and thus the upper teeth are protruded before the lower teeth.  

There are several causes of this malocclusion. It can be due to genetics, but much more often backbite is a consequence of bad habits during childhood. These include using a soother or bottle for too long, thumb-sucking or an inappropriate sleeping or feeding position. Backbite can also be caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, which is extremely important during bone growth.

Most often, this malocclusion is detected at the age of 7-8 years, when milk teeth are replaced by permanent teeth. And if you want to know more about other malocclusions among the youngest read our article "Malocclusion in children - causes, consequences and treatment".

The photograph shows a young man dressed in a navy blue T-shirt sitting in a dental chair. He is wearing blue gloves and appears to be prepared to perform a dental procedure. Elements of the dental office equipment are visible in the background.

Consequences of lack of treatment

Anorexia has its serious consequences; it is primarily problems with biting and chewing. This in turn affects the entire digestive system. This can be compounded by migraines caused by the misalignment of the teeth.

That's not all! The backbite also causes increased enamel erosion and a greater risk of tooth decay. 

The final consequences of this malocclusion are aesthetic issues - facial deformity or protruding lower scales.

The later the treatment of an overbite begins, the more likely it can It can be more complicated and time-consuming. Therefore, if you notice any worrying symptoms in your child, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible. Likewise, if you are already struggling with this malocclusion, by doing so you will get rid of the unpleasant consequences or avoid them. 

You can read more about other malocclusions in adults in our article with a similar title " Malocclusion in adults - causes, consequences, treatment".

How do you treat an overbite?

What treatment the orthodontist orders will depend on the age of the patient but also on the defect itself. In the case of children, the earlier the treatment is undertaken, the greater the chance of fully curing the defect.

One way is through braceswhich helps to move the teeth into the correct position. 

In more advanced cases of backbite, when braces are not sufficient, surgical intervention may be required.

The painting shows a smiling man in a white dental apron. He is standing next to a modern dental unit with blue gloves and dental instruments. It is a visualisation of a dental office in a professional environment.

Treatment costs

These, of course, will depend on the method of treatment and also the braces themselves. At our practice, prices start from £300 per arch for removable braces and from £350 per arch for adults. Fixed braces are an expense from £600. You can find the full range of prices here here.

And if you want to learn more about braces we recommend our text "Types of braces".

In the case of surgery, its price will depend on the complexity of the operation. 

If, at this point, you are worried about the cost of - calmly. We have good information. At our practice, you can spread your treatment into instalments that are convenient for you. Importantly, the first 12 months are zero interest. 

You can read more about this in our article "Teeth on credit: dental treatment on hire purchase". Importantly, our instalment system is 100% secure and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA number 619628).