Do you know the difference between overbite vs underbite in Kent and Sammamish, WA? These common bite issues affect more than just your smile. Problems with the jaw alignment can cause pain, speech trouble, and chewing problems.
What Are Overbites and Underbites?
An overbite happens when your upper teeth overlap your lower teeth too much. An underbite is the opposite. Here, the lower jaw sticks out beyond the upper jaw. Both of these bite patterns can change how your teeth fit together and make everyday tasks harder. In some cases, it can even affect the shape of your face and jaw.
You may also hear about an overjet, which happens when your top teeth stick out too far. Together, these problems fall under the term malocclusion. Luckily, treatments like braces and aligners can fix these issues.
What Causes Overbite and Underbite?
Bite problems like overbites, underbites, and crossbites happen for different reasons. Some common causes include:
Childhood Habits
Thumb-sucking, tongue-thrusting, or using pacifiers for too long can change how teeth grow. These habits can also cause the jaw to grow unevenly.
Genetics
Sometimes, jaw misalignments, crowded teeth, or spacing issues are inherited.
Diet
A soft diet may slow jaw growth. Chewing hard, crunchy foods like apples, carrots, and nuts can help teeth and jaws develop correctly.
Missed Early Treatment
Delaying early bite correction can make small problems worse. Orthodontists often use simple tools like expanders to correct jaw growth in kids. This can reduce the need for surgery later. According to Dr. Fiona Shi, a board-certified orthodontist in Kirkland, WA, early interventions like palatal expanders can guide jaw growth and prevent severe bite issues in adulthood.
What Happens If You Don’t Treat Overbite and Underbite?
Ignoring bite issues can lead to serious problems over time, including:
- Jaw Pain and TMJ Issues: Strain on the joints causes headaches, pain, or a clicking sound when moving your jaw.
- Chewing Problems: Misaligned teeth make chewing painful and slow.
- Speech Problems: Bite issues can make it hard to pronounce sounds like “s” or “th.”
- Tooth Wear or Damage: Uneven bites chip or wear down enamel, leading to sensitivity or cavities.
- Breathing Issues: Severe overbite or underbite severity can block airflow, leading to snoring or sleep apnea.
Treating these problems early ensures better jaw function, healthier teeth, and an easier daily life.
How Does Freelove Orthodontics Fix Overbite and Underbite?
At Freelove Orthodontics, we offer advanced treatment options to fix mild to severe misalignments. Here’s how we can help:
1. Braces
Traditional braces use wires, elastics, and brackets to shift teeth into proper alignment. They are a great choice for fixing overbites, underbites, crossbites, crowded teeth, and gaps.
2. Clear Aligners (Invisalign)
For a discreet option, Invisalign aligners can straighten teeth and correct mild bite misalignment. These removable trays are easy to clean and work well for overjet or small gaps.
3. Orthodontic Appliances
Tools like expanders, bite turbos, or Herbst appliances guide jaw positioning in younger patients. Early use of these appliances can prevent bigger problems, like the need for jaw surgery.
4. Jaw Surgery
Severe cases may require jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery. This procedure repositions the jaws for better bite function. Surgery is often followed by braces or aligners to fine-tune results.
Why Treat Overbite and Underbite?
Fixing bite problems benefits more than just your teeth. It can:
- Relieve Jaw Pain: Good jaw alignment reduces pain, tension, and headaches caused by TMJ issues.
- Improve Chewing: Proper bite patterns allow you to chew more easily and comfortably.
- Boost Confidence: Correcting teeth alignment improves your smile and self-esteem.
- Protect Teeth: Even chewing prevents tooth wear and damage.
- Simplify Oral Hygiene: Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities or gum disease.
Good bite alignment doesn’t only help your oral health—it makes daily life better.
Cost of Overbite & Underbite Treatment in Kent and Sammamish
The cost of treating an overbite or underbite depends on how severe it is and the treatment you choose. Mild cases may only need clear aligners or limited braces, which cost less. More complex cases may need appliances or jaw surgery, which cost more.
At Freelove Orthodontics, most patients spend $3,500–$7,500 for complete care. Your exact cost depends on your treatment plan and how long it takes.
What Happens After Treatment?
Completing your treatment plan is just the start. To keep your results, follow these steps during the retention phase:
- Wear Your Retainers: Retainers keep your teeth in place and prevent relapse.
- Follow Oral Hygiene Instructions: Brush and floss daily to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
- Attend Checkups: Regular visits help monitor your bite correction and ensure your results last.
Why Choose Freelove Orthodontics?
Families in Kent and Sammamish, WA, trust Freelove Orthodontics to deliver expert care. Here’s why:
- Advanced Technology: We use bite impressions, 3D imaging, and digital X-rays to diagnose bite irregularities precisely.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Every patient gets a unique treatment process tailored to their needs.
- Affordable Payment Plans: We offer flexible financing options, including insurance coverage.
Ready to Fix Your Bite?
If you’re struggling with jaw pain, speech difficulties, or teeth misalignment, Freelove Orthodontics is here to help. We treat bite problems of all severities, from mild crowding to severe malocclusions.
Schedule a consultation today at our Kent or Sammamish location. Get started on your path to a healthier bite, improved jaw function, and a confident smile.
About the Authors
Dr. Cameron Freelove – Orthodontist in Kent and Sammamish, WA
Dr. Fiona Shi – Orthodontist in Kirkland, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you never fix an overbite?
If you leave an overbite untreated, problems can show up later. Your teeth may wear down, hurt, or even break. Chewing can get harder, and you might feel jaw pain or headaches. It can affect speech and make you shy about smiling. In some cases, it can even change your face shape. Fixing it keeps your teeth and bite healthy.
Does overbite cause chubby cheeks?
No, an overbite does not cause chubby cheeks. It only affects how your teeth line up, not your face shape. Chubby cheeks are usually due to genetics, weight, or age. Some people just have naturally full cheeks, and that is normal.
Can you fix an overbite completely?
Yes, most overbites can be fixed. Braces, clear aligners, or surgery can help, but treatment takes time. Starting young works faster, but adults can get great results too. Your dentist will make a plan that fits you. With patience, you can get a healthy bite and a confident smile.
