Overbites, Underbites, and Their Effect on Periodontal Health

When your upper and lower jaws are out of alignment, you may have what’s called a malocclusion – commonly known as Underbites or Overbites. These conditions not only affect the way your smile looks but can also contribute to serious periodontal health issues if they’re left unaddressed.

The good news is, Overbites and Underbites can often be treated painlessly and easily – especially if they’re caught in childhood.

What is an Overbite?

Most people see some overlap when they close their jaws- this is totally normal. Overbites occur when your upper jaw extends well beyond your lower jaw.  Clinically, anything between 4-10mm beyond your lower jaw is considered an Overbite. There are many different causes including genetics, misaligned bites, gum disease, and more. Overbites are particularly easy to correct if they’re treated in childhood but are correctable no matter how old the patient is.

What is an Underbite?

Underbites are when the lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw. Bulldogs, for example, are famous for their Underbites. This dental condition occurs due to an overdeveloped lower jaw and an underdeveloped upper jaw, as well as accidents and genetics. Unlike bulldogs, humans with Underbites are at risk for dental health issues. If you or your child are showing signs of an Underbite, talk to your dentist right away.  Often times can be corrected during childhood.

How do Overbites and Underbites affect periodontal health?

Aside from aesthetics, Overbites and Underbites can lead to tooth decay, difficulty chewing, tooth breakage, increased cavities, and even periodontal disease due to the uneven way the jaws align. People with malocclusions are at risk for damaging their teeth and gums thanks to the uneven bite. When the teeth strike the other jaw’s gum line, it can lead to gum recession and their teeth will wear unevenly.

Malocclusions are also responsible for jaw pain, speech impediments, and even sleep apnea – a serious condition where the person stops breathing while sleeping. If you have an Overbite or Underbite, address it with a dentist, orthodontist, or periodontal specialist before it develops into further problems.

How are Overbites and Underbites treated?

Dentists treat Overbites and Underbites differently, depending on the severity of the malocclusion and the age of the patient. The least invasive way to do this is through aligners like the clear plastic Invisalign devices you may have seen on television. They do not work for every case though so you’ll need to consult with your dentist or orthodontist.

Retainers are a step up from aligners and are easily removed for eating, drinking, and dental care. The patient needs to remember to put them in every night to avoid risk of losing any progress made.

Braces are the most common way to treat malocclusions, and it may take years to realign a person’s bite. Braces are pricier and insurance may not cover adult braces which is a great reason to take care of your child’s dental health!  Finally, surgery may be the only option to correct a malalignment- your dentist or orthodontist will make this diagnosis.

If you have periodontal issues caused by Overbites or Underbites, find out how Levenson Periodontal Associates can help.  We work with individuals and through dentist referrals to help individuals overcome the damage to their teeth and gums caused by malocclusions.