Overbite vs Underbite in Fairview, TN

Overbite vs underbite in Fairview, TN, is a common bite issue. These bite issues aren’t just about how your smile looks. They can make chewing harder, create speech problems, and lead to jaw pain. The good news is that orthodontics offers effective solutions for bite correction.

What Are Overbites and Underbites?

An overbite happens when the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth too much. This is one of the most common forms of malocclusion. An underbite is the opposite. The lower teeth stick out past the upper ones. This affects jaw alignment and can change your facial profile.

According to Dr. Jeffrey Lenius, an expert orthodontist in Overland Park, KS, treating malocclusions like overbites and underbites early can help preserve balanced facial symmetry and improve bite function.

What Causes Bite Problems?

Bite problems have several possible causes:

Genetics

Jaw size and jaw structure are often inherited. If your parents had malocclusion, you may also have bite alignment issues.

Childhood Habits

Thumb-sucking, pacifier use, and long-term bottle-feeding can affect jaw growth and tooth positioning. These habits may lead to overbites, underbites, or other forms of misalignment.

Growth and Environmental Factors

Missing teeth, airway problems, and poor oral hygiene can shift your bite over time. This can reduce healthy bite force, cause tooth wear, and even lead to gum recession.

No matter the cause, we use proven treatment options to restore proper jaw positioning and protect your smile.

Why Fix Bite Problems?

Fixing bite problems early can protect your health and boost your quality of life. If left untreated, a bad bite can lead to:

• Jaw Pain and TMJ Issues: Misaligned teeth can strain the jaw joint. This may cause pain, popping sounds, or headaches.
• Chewing Problems: An uneven bite makes eating harder and more tiring.
• Speech Issues: Teeth that do not line up can make it hard to say some words. This often affects sounds like “s” or “th.”
• Tooth Damage: Uneven pressure can wear down enamel, which raises the risk of cavities and tooth pain.
• Breathing Trouble: Severe bite problems can narrow the airway. This may lead to snoring or even sleep apnea.

Fixing these issues helps improve your oral health and makes daily life more comfortable.

Treatment Options for Bite Issues

At Carr Orthodontics, we offer both non-surgical and surgical treatment options. Your treatment plan will depend on the severity of your bite problem and your overall goals.

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Braces: Braces are a reliable way to improve bite alignment. They use brackets, wires, and elastics to gradually move teeth into position. We may also use bite adjusters, bite turbos, or a bite plate to improve jaw movement.
• Invisalign aligners: Clear aligners are removable and nearly invisible. They work well for mild to moderate overbites, underbites, and overjets.
• Growth modifiers and appliances: For younger patients, we may recommend jaw expanders, bite plates, or headgear to guide jaw growth. Early treatment reduces the chance of needing jaw surgery later.

Surgical Treatments

For severe jaw misalignments, orthognathic (jaw) surgery may be required. During surgery, the jaw is repositioned to improve bite alignment. This may be followed by braces or aligners to fine-tune tooth positioning. Surgery is used when other treatments are not enough to achieve proper bite correction.

Why Bite Correction Is Important

Fixing an overbite or underbite offers more than cosmetic benefits. It can:

• Improve chewing function and reduce discomfort.
• Protect teeth from damage like enamel erosion or decay.
• Prevent gum recession and TMJ-related jaw pain.
• Boost your confidence with a better smile.

Improving bite mechanics doesn’t just help with oral health; it also enhances your overall quality of life.

Cost of Overbite & Underbite Treatment in Fairview, TN

The cost to fix an overbite or underbite can be different for every patient. Your price depends on how severe your bite is and which treatment is right for you.

Mild bite issues are often treated with braces or clear aligners. These options usually cost between $3,500 and $7,500.

Retention and Maintenance

When treatment ends, keeping your results takes ongoing care. This step, called retention, helps your teeth stay in place.

• Wear Retainers: They stop your teeth from moving back.
• Keep Good Oral Habits: Brush and floss every day to keep teeth and gums healthy.
• Attend Checkups: Regular visits catch problems early and protect your smile.

Why Choose Carr Orthodontics in Fairview, TN?

Patients trust Carr Orthodontics for expert bite correction. Dr. Carr has years of experience treating complex malocclusion cases and improving jaw alignment. Our office uses advanced tools like digital X-rays, 3D imaging, and precise technology for accurate evaluation and planning.

We make orthodontic care affordable by working with most insurance providers and offering flexible financing to manage costs. Every patient gets a custom treatment plan made just for their needs. We are proud of our many patient success stories and the long-term results we help create.

Transform Your Smile Today

If you’re ready to fix your bite problems, Carr Orthodontics is here to help. From consultation to retention, we’ll guide you through every step of the treatment process.

Call us today to schedule your consultation in Fairview, TN. Let’s start your journey to better jaw alignment, improved oral health, and a confident smile!

About the Authors

Dr. Kayla Carr – Orthodontist in Fairview, TN

Dr. Jeffrey Lenius – Orthodontist in Overland Park, KS

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Invisalign completely fix an overbite?

In many cases, yes. Invisalign works for mild to moderate overbites by moving teeth into better alignment. Severe cases may still need braces or extra treatments. An orthodontic consultation is the best way to know what you need.

Can you eat with Invisalign?

Yes, just remove the aligners first. You can enjoy any food you like. Brush your teeth and rinse the trays before putting them back in to keep treatment on track.

Who is not a good candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign is a great choice for many patients, but it’s not for everyone. Children with baby teeth or teens who are still growing might need to wait. Severe bite problems, large gaps, or major tooth rotations often require braces. Since aligners must be worn most of the day, they might not work for people who lose items easily or skip routines. Those who drink coffee or red wine often may also find aligners harder to maintain. An orthodontist can recommend the best treatment for your specific smile.