Overbites and underbites are two common forms of misaligned teeth. We’ll go into more detail below, but here are some simple definitions:

• An overbite is when your upper front teeth extend beyond the lower front teeth.
• An underbite is when your lower teeth protrude past the upper front teeth.

If you have overbite vs. underbite concerns, be sure to ask your dentist, such as our team at Urban Orthodontics. It’s worth getting looked at since both issues can lead to tooth wear and mouth pain, plus aesthetic concerns, as well as speech and articulation problems.

All about Overbite Teeth

Minor overbites, when upper teeth extend slightly over lower teeth, are common and not necessarily a concern that needs fixing. However, when your overbite teeth extend past the bottom teeth by as much as 4–10 millimeters, the issue becomes more pronounced. Some causes for this common Class II bite can be:

• Genetics
• Thumb sucking
• Gum disease
• A recessive chin
• Poorly fitted crowns
• Accident or injury

Or there might be no clear cause for your overbite. Sometimes it just happens. If you’re concerned about an overbite, it’s best to tackle the problem sooner rather than later. Treatment options are more effective for younger patients, although there are options for adults as well.

All about Underbite Teeth

A Class III bite, called an underbite, happens when your underbite teeth extend beyond the upper teeth. This is less common and tends to be more serious than overbites. This is because when the lower jaw protrudes, the lower row of teeth cannot align with the upper row. A host of serious oral health issues can result. Causes include:

• Genetics
• Childhood habits
• Accidents
• An underdeveloped upper jaw
• Overdeveloped lower jaw

No matter the cause, Hudson County, New Jersey, patients with underbites at any level of severity should be evaluated at Urban Orthodontics immediately. Otherwise, minor issues could get worse over time.

Get Invisalign to Treat Over- and Underbites

Many patients choose to correct their overbites and underbites with traditional metal braces. However, for some patients, Invisalign is a better option. This is because Invisalign—or clear plates and aligners rather than metal brackets and wires—are:

• Discreet. Since they’re clear, Invisalign aren’t as easy to see as metal braces.
• Conducive to good oral health. For example, you can remove them whenever you need to brush or floss your teeth.
• Convenient. The trays can be removed for up to two hours each day, which makes eating and drinking easier than with metal braces.

We’ll pair you with a series of clear, customized, and removable trays called aligners. They’re made from clear plastic and combine traditional orthodontics with modern 3D graphics and technology. Invisalign is designed to slowly move your teeth over time to a straighter final position. Each aligner is designed and manufactured to fit the patient’s teeth and mouth through every stage. They will place pressure on your teeth When it comes to overbites vs. underbites, the good news is that both can be fixed. Contact Urban Orthodontics to book your appointment in Union City, New Jersey!