Cosmetic dentistry will always be linked to improving the look of smiles, but it is also an integral aspect when treating functional complications like overbites and underbites. All of these common oral problems have a negative effect, not only on the appearance of a smile but also on physical health and general quality of life as described by a cosmetic dentist. Cosmetic dentistry in Houston provides treatments for these bite problems, making it easier to function as well as the way your smile looks.
What Are Overbites and Underbites?
- Overbite: An overbite — or deep bite — is when the upper front teeth overlap with the lower front teeth. A small amount of overlap is normal but too much overbite can cause several problems, such as wearing of the teeth, irritated gums, and jaw pain.
- Underbite: An overbite is an opposite condition in which the top front teeth come down past the bottom front teeth. When this happens, it can lead to chewing difficulty, speech problems, and a higher incidence of dental caries and periodontal illness because of unusual wear patterns.
Why Overbites and Underbites Occur?
Overbites and underbites can develop as a result of factors such as:
- Genetics: Various genetic factors connected to jaw and teeth alignment often run in the family.
- Childhood Practices: Prolonged thumb-sucking, pacifier, or bottle-feeding can change jaw development.
- Development of Teeth: Overlapping, missin,g or misplaced teeth may contribute to misaligned bites.
- Size of the Jaw: The jaws of the upper and lower parts of the mouth may also differ in terms of size and shape, resulting in misalignments.
The Effect of Overbites and Underbites
If untreated, mild overbites or underbites can cause several negative consequences:
- Incremental Tooth Wear: An incorrect bite can cause some teeth to wear down faster than others, causing tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss.
- Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorders: Stress on the jaw from abnormal bite patterns can result in TMJ and chronic pain.
- Speech Issues: Significant bite problems can also impact the way a person speaks, producing lisps or other articulation difficulties.
- Self-Esteem Problems: The aesthetic effect of overbites and underbites can impact self-esteem and social interactions.
Cosmetic Dentistry for Overbites and Underbites
Cosmetic dentistry in Houston includes several effective treatments for an overbite or underbite that can help improve function as well as the way your smile looks:
Orthodontics: Braces or clear aligners are frequently the first line of defense in resolving a bite issue. These gradual alignments help move teeth into the proper position from their joint position and solve the actual root cause of overbites and underbites. A popular choice is clear aligners, especially the clear aligner system Invisalign, which appeals to many due to its cosmetic appeal, as well as its ease of use.
Dental Veneers: In mild to moderate cases, dental veneers can be used to disguise the aesthetic effects caused by overbites or underbites. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that are glued to the front of teeth to create a more even and attractive overall look.
Dental Crowns: For teeth with extensive wear or damage related to bite problems, crowns may be applied to restore and protect those teeth. Crowns cover the whole tooth, making it strong and more aligned.
Tooth Contouring and Reshaping: Tooth contouring and reshaping gently remove small amounts of enamel to change the length and shape of your teeth. For minor overbite or underbite conditions, this can provide a solution for a more balanced and symmetrical smile.
When it comes to overbite and underbite, cosmetic dentistry is essential for repairing this functional issue with a cosmetic solution. Houston dentists offer a variety of options — everything from orthodontics to surgery — to help people with these common bite problems.
