If you or your child has been told they have an overbite, you’re not alone, and you’re not without solutions. Overbite is one of the most common orthodontic issues, and when left untreated, it can lead to discomfort, jaw pain, speech issues, uneven wear on teeth, and even confidence issues. Fortunately, braces are a tried-and-true method for correcting an overbite, and for patients in Little Rock, AR, Hodge Orthodontics offers personalized, state-of-the-art care to help you achieve a healthy, balanced smile.
In this post, we’ll dive deep into what an overbite is, how braces can fix it, and why Hodge Orthodontics is a trusted provider in Central Arkansas.
Understanding Overbite: What Is It?
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth extend significantly over the lower front teeth. While a slight overbite is completely normal, a deep overbite can interfere with jaw function, wear down teeth, or lead to a “gummy” smile appearance.
Common signs of an overbite include:
- A visibly recessed chin or protruding upper lip
- Excessive wear on front teeth
- Difficulty biting or chewing certain foods
- Jaw pain or discomfort
- Speech difficulties
- Self-consciousness when smiling
Overbites can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, thumb-sucking during early childhood, tongue thrusting, or improper jaw development. The good news is that orthodontic treatment, especially braces, can correct these issues and dramatically improve your bite and appearance.
Why Braces Are Ideal for Overbite Correction
Specialists such as Dr. Owais Naeem, an expert orthodontist in Manassas, VA, emphasize that braces offer consistent and reliable results for aligning teeth and improving jaw harmony, especially for moderate to severe cases. Unlike aligners that rely on patient compliance, braces are fixed appliances that apply constant pressure to reposition teeth and jaws over time.
Here’s how braces help correct an overbite:
- Repositioning the teeth- Braces gradually move the upper and lower teeth into better alignment.
- Aligning the jaw– In more severe cases, appliances like elastics or bite plates can be used in combination with braces to shift the jaw into pthe roper position.
- Improving overall facial balance– By correcting the overbite, braces help restore harmony between the upper and lower jaws, enhancing both function and appearance.
Types of Braces Offered at Hodge Orthodontics
At Hodge Orthodontics in Little Rock, patients have access to a variety of cutting-edge orthodontic options to suit different needs and lifestyles. Here are the main types of braces they offer for overbite treatment:
- Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most common and often the most effective for correcting deep overbites. They’re strong, durable, and now smaller and more comfortable than ever before. They’re also the most cost-effective option, which makes them a great choice for families on a budget.
- Ceramic (Clear) Braces
Ceramic braces work like metal braces but are made of tooth-colored materials that blend in more naturally. These are ideal for teens or adults who want a more discreet look while still benefiting from the effectiveness of fixed appliances.
- Self-Ligating Braces
These braces use specialized clips instead of elastic bands to hold the wire in place. This design allows for less friction, fewer adjustments, and often a shorter treatment time. Hodge Orthodontics offers self-ligating options for patients looking for a more efficient and comfortable experience.
Customized Treatment Plans Using Advanced Technology
One of the hallmarks of Hodge Orthodontics is our commitment to customization and technology. We use digital imaging, custom bracket positioning, and precise planning to ensure each patient receives a treatment plan that’s tailored to their unique dental anatomy.
This is especially important for overbite correction, where small differences in tooth and jaw position can significantly affect the outcome.
Hodge Orthodontics also leverages custom brackets, which are designed to fit each patient’s teeth precisely. This improves comfort, reduces the need for adjustments, and can even shorten overall treatment time.
What to Expect During Overbite Treatment
Here’s a general overview of what the overbite correction process might look like at Hodge Orthodontics:
- Initial Consultation
During your first visit, the orthodontist will perform a thorough exam using digital X-rays and scans. They’ll assess the severity of your overbite and discuss the best treatment options for your case.
- Customized Treatment Plan
Based on your diagnosis, your orthodontist will recommend a specific type of braces and outline your treatment timeline, expected results, and any supplemental appliances that may be needed (such as elastics, bite plates, or jaw expanders).
- Braces Placement
Your braces will be custom-fitted to your teeth and carefully bonded in place. From here, you’ll begin your journey toward a straighter, more functional smile.
- Regular Adjustments
You’ll return to the office every 6–8 weeks for checkups and adjustments. These appointments ensure your teeth and jaws are progressing as planned.
- Monitoring Progress
Thanks to digital imaging and a hands-on approach, your progress is closely monitored to catch any issues early and adjust treatment as needed.
- Debonding and Retention
Once your overbite is corrected, the braces are removed, and you’ll receive retainers to maintain your results. This phase is critical to ensuring your teeth don’t shift back into their original position.
Additional Appliances for Severe Overbites
In some cases, particularly with deep overbites or jaw discrepancies, braces alone aren’t enough. Hodge Orthodontics may use one or more of the following:
- Elastics – Small rubber bands that guide jaw alignment
- Bite plates – Prevent upper teeth from covering lower teeth too deeply
- Headgear or expanders – Occasionally used in growing children to influence jaw development
The team will walk you through exactly what’s needed and why, so you feel confident every step of the way.
Why Choose Hodge Orthodontics?
Patients throughout Little Rock, West Little Rock, and Central Arkansas trust Hodge Orthodontics for several reasons:
- Experienced team with a warm, welcoming environment
- Cutting-edge technology that improves comfort and speeds up treatment
- Flexible scheduling and payment plans to make treatment accessible
- Comprehensive care for kids, teens, and adults
They focus not just on how your smile looks, but how your teeth and jaw function together to support lifelong health and confidence.
Real Results, Real Impact
Fixing an overbite isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about preventing future dental issues, relieving discomfort, and boosting confidence. Many patients who complete overbite correction with braces report improved chewing, better speech clarity, and a massive boost in self-esteem.
And with the Hodge team by your side, the process is smoother and more comfortable than you might think.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’re in Little Rock, AR, and are exploring treatment for an overbite, Hodge Orthodontics is here to help. Whether you’re a parent seeking guidance for your child or an adult ready to invest in yourself, their experienced and caring team will create a plan that fits your life and delivers real results.
Visit HodgeOrtho.com to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward a healthier, happier smile.
About The Authors
Dr. Owais Naeem – Orthodontist in Manassas, VA
Dr. Natalia Hodge – Orthodontist in Little Rock, AR