What is an overjet?
Many people are familiar with the term “overbite,” which refers to a vertical overlap where the upper front teeth extend over the lower front teeth. However, fewer are acquainted with an “overjet,” a condition where the upper front teeth protrude horizontally beyond the lower teeth, commonly known as “buck teeth.”
An untreated overjet can lead to various dental issues. The misalignment may cause the lower jaw to rest uncomfortably, potentially resulting in temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, speech difficulties, and an increased risk of trauma to the protruding teeth.
Corrective braces are a proven solution for addressing overjet. By applying consistent pressure, braces gradually realign the teeth, reducing the protrusion and improving the bite. Early intervention with corrective braces not only enhances dental function but also contributes to better facial aesthetics and overall oral health.
Causes of an overjet
Several factors can cause an overjet. Genetic factors may cause minor overjets, but more severe overjets are likely caused by behavior in childhood that affects the position of the front teeth.
Excessive thumb sucking, pacifier use, bottle suckling, and even pressing against the front teeth with the tongue can all shift the position of the front teeth and cause an overjet. It’s best to correct these behaviors as soon as possible to prevent severe dental complications from occurring.
While there are many options to repair an overjet, if the overjet happens in adulthood or remains untreated into adulthood, then the scope of the damage may require oral surgery before the overbite can be corrected using corrective braces.
How corrective braces can help an overjet
If caught early, one of the best ways to correct an overjet is with braces. Most overjets can be corrected using standard metal or ceramic braces or even clear plastic aligners. The best time to correct the issue is in early childhood before the condition can become severe or create other dental issues.
Braces and aligners work by gradually shifting the teeth into position over time until they are straight. Typically, braces are installed over the teeth and are adjusted manually by your dentist at regular intervals in order to safely and effectively move the teeth into the proper position.
This is often why parents of children with an overjet will choose to get braces over other options so that spacing issues can be corrected over time. This way, the entire smile can be straightened out at one time, especially if the overjet has caused crowding or shifting for the other teeth.
