fbpx
BOOK ONLINE
(03) 9042 0483
Gorgeous Smiles logo
BOOK ONLINE
(03) 9042 0483
Gorgeous Smiles logo
BOOK ONLINE
(03) 9042 0483
Home / Blog / Dental Implants / Can Dental Implants Fix an Overbite

Can Dental Implants Fix an Overbite

Medically reviewed by Dr Minoo Ghamari  / Nov 23, 2023  
Medically reviewed by Dr Minoo Ghamari  
Nov 23, 2023  
Can Dental Implants Fix an Overbite

Are you self-conscious about your overbite? Do you avoid smiling in photos or feel uncomfortable when eating certain foods because of it? Then you are not by yourself. Overbites are a widespread ailment that can be emotionally and physically uncomfortable for many individuals.

At Gorgeous Smiles, we understand an overbite's impact on your daily life. That's why we offer a variety of solutions to help correct this issue, including a dental implant. To help you, we'll explore if dental implants can fix an overbite and enhance your oral health.

So, if you're ready to regain your confidence, let's dive into dental implants and how they can help with overbites.

Understanding Dental Implants

Dental implants are a comprehensive answer for replacing missing teeth. This provides a natural-looking and functional counterpart to your original teeth. These titanium posts serve as tooth root substitutes, surgically positioned into the upper or lower jawbone.

Once in place, they anchor replacement teeth, creating a tough foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture. So, dental implants offer a viable option whether you're missing a single tooth or dealing with the aftermath of significant tooth loss.

As part of the treatment plan, your dentist may talk about full mouth reconstruction. This is especially true if you have severe orthodontic issues like an overbite. This extensive approach addresses the upper and lower teeth and ensures that your bite is aligned.

Overbite: An Overview

An overbite is a dental ailment in which the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth substantially. This is more than simply an aesthetic issue; it can also cause functional issues. The upper and lower teeth should align for optimal chewing in a healthy mouth.

An overbite disrupts this balance, which can lead to difficulty eating, speaking, and even breathing. Overbites can also put extra stress on your natural teeth and jaws. This causes discomfort and potentially leads to wear and tear over time.

It is crucial to note that overbites may not always indicate poor oral hygiene or neglect. They can be caused by heredity or other things beyond your control. Although overbites are manageable, individuals with significant overbites may find corrective dental treatments beneficial.

Can Dental Implants Fix an Overbite?

Yes, dental implants can indeed fix an overbite. Dental implants fix overbite by providing a solid structure that mimics the root of a natural tooth. This structure supports the artificial tooth, allowing your dentist to position it correctly in your mouth.

By placing these implants strategically, an overbite can be effectively corrected, aligning your teeth for a more balanced and confident smile. It's a revolutionary yet simple solution to the age-old problem of overbite.

Pros of Using Dental Implants for Overbite

Dental implants offer multiple advantages for overbite correction, including:

  • Stability: Dental implants provide superior stability in the upper jaw. They anchor to the jawbone, mimicking the root of real teeth. This keeps the fake teeth in place, so you don't have to worry about them moving around while you fix your overbite.

  • Aesthetics: With dental implants, you can achieve a natural-looking smile. They are designed to blend seamlessly with your remaining teeth, so no one will even know you have an overbite or artificial teeth.

  • Functionality: A common issue with overbite is difficulty eating and speaking. Dental implants provide the necessary support for chewing. This ensures you can eat comfortably and speak without any hindrances.

  • Bone Preservation: When you have an overbite, your jawbone can start to deteriorate because of the lack of stimulation from your teeth. Dental implants help preserve bone health by providing the necessary stimulation. This keeps your jawbone strong and healthy.

  • Long-Term Solution: Overbite treatment with dental implants is a long-term option. They can last a lifetime with the right maintenance, unlike other correction procedures that must be updated or adjusted regularly.

Cons of Using Dental Implants for Overbite

While dental implants offer many benefits, a few cons exist. These include:

  • Surgical procedure: Dental implantation is a surgical process that may cause discomfort and requires a recovery period. Surgery also has risks, including infection, nerve damage, and possible sinus problems.

  • Cost: Dental implants can be expensive and often not fully covered by insurance. The high cost upfront may discourage some from choosing this method of correcting overbites despite its long-term advantages.

  • Healing time: Dental implants require a substantial healing period, often several months. Patients may experience discomfort and dietary limitations during this time, which can interfere with their regular lives.

  • Not suitable for everyone: Dental implants are not appropriate for everyone. Age, bone density, overall health, and lifestyle behaviours (such as smoking) can all affect eligibility. This potentially makes this option inaccessible for some patients with an overbite.

  • Maintenance requirements: Dental implants require diligent maintenance. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are critical. Neglecting proper care can lead to implant failure, gum disease, or other dental complications, adding an extra responsibility for the patient.

Alternative Treatments for Overbite

While dental implants are a famous option for correcting an overbite, they may not be suitable or accessible for everyone. Thankfully, there are alternative remedies available that can still achieve positive results:

Braces

Braces are a common orthodontic treatment for overbite correction. They apply gradual pressure on the teeth, slowly realigning them to the proper position. Braces are made up of brackets fastened to the teeth and linked by a wire that an orthodontist tightens regularly.

Over time, the teeth shift, correcting the overbite. They are a cost-effective option with a proven track record in treating overbites effectively. However, they demand patience, as the treatment period can span several months to a few years.

Invisalign

Invisalign is another popular option under cosmetic dentistry procedures used for overbite correction. These clear, removable aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth. They apply gentle, consistent pressure to gradually shift your teeth into the correct position.

As a bonus, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, offering a less noticeable alternative to braces. This makes them a more convenient and aesthetically pleasing option for many, particularly adults and teenagers. However, they may not be suitable for severe overbite cases.

Retainers

Retainers are another popular choice for overbite correction. Provided by a cosmetic dentist, these custom-made devices are typically worn post-braces to maintain the new positioning of teeth and prevent relapse.

However, in some minor overbite cases, retainers alone may be used as a treatment. They are discreet and removable, allowing for comfortable wear and easy oral hygiene maintenance. Retainers offer a cost-effective, efficient, and less invasive alternative for overbite correction.

Jaw Surgery

In severe cases of overbite, jaw surgery might be recommended. During this process, the jawbones are realigned to fix the bite and make the face look better. Although invasive and requires lengthy recovery, it provides a permanent solution to overbite.

It's usually combined with braces or other orthodontic treatments to ensure optimal results. This extensive treatment is the last choice when non-surgical methods fail to repair the overbite.

Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is yet another method used to correct overbite issues. When the mouth is overcrowded, removing one or more teeth can make enough room for the remaining teeth to align properly.

While this technique may sound frightening, it is performed by dental surgeons and can help fix an overbite. However, braces are often used after tooth extraction to guide the teeth into new positions.

Final Thoughts

Overall, dental implants offer a long-term, successful approach to addressing overbite. However, it is critical to weigh the advantages and disadvantages. Investigate alternative treatments that may suit your requirements, lifestyle, and price.

Consult with a professional dentist to discuss your options and develop a treatment plan that is unique to your situation. You may get a beautiful, healthy smile and improve dental health with adequate care and technique.

Leave a Reply

CONTACT US
Your Local Dentist in Melbourne
BOOK ONLINE
© 2020 Gorgeous Smiles Dental. All rights reserved
cross