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Overbites are fairly common amongst children and adults and an estimated 8% of the population has an overbite that is considered severe.
Leaving an overbite uncorrected can lead to a number of health problems down the line. Fortunately, there are a few easy solutions your orthodontist can try to correct your overbite and give you the smile you’ve always wanted!
Are you unsure of whether or not you should seek orthodontic treatment for your overbite? You’ve come to the right place.
Read on for five reasons that you should have your overbite corrected.
1. Gum Damage
In severe cases, an overbite requires treatment because the upper teeth extend past the lower teeth and connect with the lower gums. Over time, this wear can lead to damage including receding gums and gum infection. Some patients have even lost teeth as a result of severely damaged gums.
2. Sleep Apnea
Sometimes, seeking orthodontic treatment for dental problems can help in surprising ways. An overbite can wreak havoc on more than just your dental health–it can even disrupt your sleep.
A bad overbite can lead to sleep apnea, the blockage of air that occurs during sleep. If you have an overbite and suffer from sleep apnea, talk to your orthodontist and find out if the two are related.
3. Jaw Pain
Overbites are often caused by–or cause–a misalignment of the jaw. Corrective procedures can address this misalignment and without it, you may suffer from chronic jaw pain. This can lead to headaches, sinus pain, and difficulty chewing and talking.
In fact, many people believe that they’re suffering from TMJ, a jaw-related problem that can cause the jaw to lock and ache. In reality, overbites are often the culprit, which means that you can find simple relief from your jaw pain.
4. Tooth Wear
When you have an overbite, there is often irregular contact between your teeth. As a result, you may notice wear and decay in unusual areas. Believe it or not, this can actually lead to TMJ as well as tooth loss and difficulty chewing.
5. Problems With Speech
The position of your jaw and teeth affects your speech patterns. Many adults with speech problems find that their confidence is also affected, which can have a negative impact on your mental health.
Correcting the position of your teeth may provide the remedy you need to speak freely and confidently. It’s important to note that not all patients experience a change in speech patterns after correcting their overbite, but it is a possible solution.
Get Your Overbite Corrected for a Healthy, Happy Smile
An overbite doesn’t just have an aesthetic effect. It can also cause a variety of dental issues and even impact your ability to get a good night’s sleep. Getting an overbite corrected is a simple process and one that’s worth looking into!
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