Do you want to know more about overbites vs underbites in Little Rock, AR? These are not just cosmetic issues. They can affect jaw alignment, cause jaw pain, headaches, and even create speech issues.
What Are Overbites and Underbites?
An overbite is when the top teeth overlap the bottom teeth too much. An underbite is the opposite—when the lower teeth stick out past the top teeth. Both affect jaw alignment, tooth alignment, chewing, and your facial appearance. As Dr. Sam Titus, a board-certified orthodontist in Westfield, IN, explains, treating overbites and underbites improves not only the bite function but also the overall balance of the face.
What Overbites and Underbites?
Bite problems have many causes. Below are some of the most common factors:
Genetics
Your jaw’s size, tooth spacing, and overall structure are often inherited. If your family has a history of bite misalignments like malocclusion, you may develop similar issues.
Childhood Habits
Habits such as thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, or long-term use of pacifiers can move baby teeth or affect the jaw alignment.
Diet
If you mainly eat soft foods, your jaw growth may slow down. Harder foods like crunchy vegetables and nuts help promote natural chewing and healthy development.
Delayed Check-Ups
Choosing not to schedule orthodontic exams during childhood can allow bite problems to worsen over time. Early diagnosis can prevent severe issues and reduce the need for later treatments like jaw surgery.
What Problems Can Bite Misalignment Cause?
Bite issues affect your teeth, but that’s not all. An untreated overbite or underbite can damage your health and comfort in surprising ways:
- Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorders: Misaligned bites place extra stress on the jaw joint (TMJ) and can cause jaw pain, headaches, and even clicking sounds.
- Chewing Challenges: Uneven teeth make it hard to chew food properly, leading to digestion problems.
- Speech Issues: Misaligned teeth make some sounds like “s” or “th” harder to pronounce.
- Tooth Wear: Bite misalignments can cause teeth to wear unevenly, increasing the risks of crowding, cracks, or cavities.
- Sleep Problems: Severe bite issues can interfere with breathing during sleep, leading to snoring or sleep apnea.
Orthodontic Treatment Options in Little Rock
At Hodge Orthodontics, we provide many solutions to fix bite problems and improve oral health. Here are your options:
Braces
Braces are a reliable choice for treating mild or severe issues. The system uses brackets, wires, and elastic bands to gradually move your teeth into proper alignment over time.
Clear Aligners (Invisalign)
Clear aligners, like Invisalign, are removable trays that adjust your teeth gently. They are often used for mild to moderate bite problems, offering a discreet option. Patients love aligners because they fit into daily life easily and can be removed for eating and brushing.
Orthodontic Appliances
Tools like jaw expanders, bite plates, and rubber bands can guide healthy jaw growth in young patients. These appliances reduce the need for more invasive treatments in adulthood and ensure proper jaw function.
Jaw Surgery
For severe jaw discrepancies, orthognathic surgery may be required to realign the maxilla (upper jaw) or mandible (lower jaw). After surgery, braces or aligners are often used to fine-tune tooth placement.
Benefits of Fixing Bite Problems
Correcting an overbite or underbite is about more than looks. Bite correction improves your life:
- Better Chewing – Proper tooth alignment makes chewing easier and helps digestion.
- Less Jaw Pain – Relieving TMJ strain reduces pain and headaches.
- Improved Facial Appearance – Balanced jaw alignment creates better aesthetics and boosts self-esteem.
- Damage Prevention – Reduces risk of tooth wear, fractures, and gum problems.
- Clearer Speech – Proper jaw function makes it easier to pronounce words.
Overbite & Underbite Treatment Costs in Little Rock, AR
The cost to treat an overbite or underbite can be different for each patient. Your price depends on how severe the bite is and the treatment that fits your needs.
Mild bite problems are often fixed with braces or clear aligners. These options usually cost between $3,500 and $7,500.
Life After Orthodontic Treatment
Your smile needs care even after your treatment timeline ends.
- Retainers: Wearing retainers is essential to keep your new smile in place. Skipping them can undo months of work.
- Oral Hygiene and Aftercare: Good oral hygiene and aftercare are crucial. Brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly. Avoid chewing ice or hard foods that can harm your tooth alignment.
Why Choose Hodge Orthodontics?
Patients in Little Rock trust Hodge Orthodontics to fix their smiles and provide superior care. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Advanced Technology: We use 3D imaging and digital bite impressions for precise treatment planning.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Every patient’s orthodontic journey is unique. We create a plan that matches your needs, from treatment complexity to your lifestyle.
- Flexible Payment Plans: Our office works with most insurance providers and offers financing options to make orthodontic care budget-friendly.
- Experienced Team: Dr. Hodge and the staff are highly skilled in diagnosing and treating even the most complex bite alignment issues.
Start Your Smile Journey Today
Don’t let an overbite or underbite hold you back. At Hodge Orthodontics in Little Rock, AR, we specialize in improving patients’ smiles through personalized care. Whether you need braces, aligners, or other orthodontic solutions, we’ll develop the perfect plan for your needs.
Schedule your consultation today, and let’s begin the journey to a healthier, brighter smile!
About The Authors
Dr. Natalia Hodge – Orthodontist in Little Rock, AR
Dr. Sam Titus – Orthodontist in Westfield, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you never fix an overbite?
If you don’t fix an overbite, it can cause problems later. Your teeth may wear down unevenly, which can lead to pain, sensitivity, or even tooth loss. Chewing can get harder, and you may have jaw pain or headaches. It can also affect your speech and make you feel shy about your smile. In some cases, it can even change your face shape. Fixing your overbite can help keep your teeth and bite healthy in the long run.
Can Invisalign fix underbite?
Yes, Invisalign can often fix an underbite, especially if it is mild or moderate. These clear aligners slowly move your teeth and jaw into the right spot. This helps you get a healthier bite and a more confident smile without metal braces. Every case is different, so it’s best to ask your dentist or orthodontist if Invisalign is right for you. They can check your teeth and make a plan that works for you.
At what age should I fix an underbite?
The best age to fix an underbite depends on the person. Many dentists suggest checking kids around age 7 or 8, since early treatment can help if the underbite causes trouble with eating or speaking. But teens and adults can still fix an underbite with great results. The best step is to see an orthodontist who can tell you the right time to start. It is never too late to work toward a healthy, confident smile.