When most people think of orthodontic concerns, an overbite is often the first condition that comes to mind. However, another common issue is an overjet, a dental condition where the upper front teeth extend noticeably beyond the lower front teeth. While it might seem like a small detail, an overjet can affect more than just appearance. It can also impact oral health, speech, and self-confidence. At Mackenzie Orthodontics, we believe knowledge is the first step toward treatment.
What Exactly Is an Overjet?
An overjet is often confused with an overbite, but the two conditions are not the same. An overbite refers to how much the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth vertically, while an overjet describes the horizontal distance between them. In other words, with an overjet, the top teeth stick out farther than they should.
Common Causes of an Overjet
There are a variety of reasons an overjet might develop:
- Genetics: Sometimes, jaw size and positioning are inherited, making an overjet more likely.
- Childhood Habits: Prolonged thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or pacifier use can push teeth out of alignment.
- Early Tooth Loss: When baby teeth are lost too soon, the surrounding teeth can shift, creating bite problems.
- Jaw Growth Issues: Discrepancies between the upper and lower jaws can result in an overjet that persists into adolescence and adulthood.
Why Is It Important to Treat an Overjet?
While an overjet may not always cause immediate pain or discomfort, leaving it untreated can lead to several challenges:
- Difficulty with Chewing and Biting certain foods
- Speech issues, including lisping or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds
- Increased risk of dental injury since protruding front teeth are more vulnerable during accidents or sports
- Jaw strain or discomfort, especially if the bite doesn’t align properly
- Lowered self-confidence due to the appearance of the smile
For children and teens, early intervention is often easier and more effective. For adults, treatment may take longer but can still provide excellent results.
Treatment Options for an Overjet
At Mackenzie Orthodontics, treatment is tailored to each individual’s needs. Some of the most common approaches include:
- Braces
- Invisalign
- Functional Appliances
- Elastics
Taking the First Step
The good news is that overjets can almost always be corrected, and the earlier the problem is identified, the simpler treatment tends to be. A consultation allows us to assess the severity of the overjet, discuss available options, and create a treatment plan that’s right for you or your child.
At Mackenzie Orthodontics, we’re here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile. Contact us today to book your free consultation and learn more about your treatment options.