What is Normal Overjet?
A bite that does not fit correctly together is referred to as a malocclusion. There are a number of different ways malocclusion can present itself, but one of the most common is an overjet. Overjet is a term used to describe when a person’s upper teeth protrude over their bottom teeth. Sometimes referred to as “buck teeth”, overjet is often mistakenly referred to as an overbite. The primary difference between overjet and overbite is that overjet is characterized by a horizontal discrepancy, whereas in an overbite the discrepancy between the lower and upper front incisors is vertical.
While overjet can range in severity, in general a person is said to have an overjet if their upper front teeth extend more than 3 mm over their bottom teeth. The severity of one’s overjet can vary, but in the more severe cases, the overjet can be upwards of 10 millimeters. Many patients who have overjet experience feelings of self-consciousness, which can result in depression and isolation. Fortunately, there are several treatment options for correcting overjet.
What Causes Overjet?
The two most common causes of overjet are genetic predisposition, either because a person was born with an underdeveloped lower jawbone or if their mother or father also had an overjet, and childhood habits, such as prolonged thumb sucking, use of a pacifier or bottle, and/or tongue-thrusting. If overjet is identified and treated early enough, it may be possible to avoid oral surgery, although removal of teeth at an early age to prevent overcrowding may also be sufficient in preventing overjet and overbite. Additional, growth modification therapy may also be implemented in addition to orthodontic therapy.
Although these treatments can be successful for younger patients, adults who have overjet or overbite will typically have to undergo surgery to correct their issue. This surgery will involve reshaping your jaw, making it either shorter or longer and utilize wires, plates, or screws to stabilize your jawbone.
Additional ways that overjet may be corrected include:
- Dental braces: Overjet may be corrected with dental braces, which will gradually shift your teeth to their desired location. The length of time and type of dental brace used (removable clear aligners or metal braces) will vary depending on the severity of your case, but on average, overjet can be corrected within 18-24 months.
- Veneers: Veneers may also be recommended to correct your overjet. These veneers (typically made of porcelain) are attached to the front of your teeth and will address mild alignment issues as well as discoloration, cracks, and chips.
- Dental bonding: Dental bonding may also be recommended to improve the appearance of protruding teeth. This natural looking resin will change the size and shape of your teeth, has the strength and appearance of your natural teeth, and will last several years before needing to be replaced.
- Dental crown: To make the appearance of protruding teeth appear to be uniform, a dental crown may be placed.
- Invisalign: Patients who would prefer to avoid traditional braces may be good candidates for Invisalign, which use thin, almost invisible aligners to straighten one’s teeth, and eliminate the need for wires, bands, or metal brackets.