Are you looking for a way to improve the look of your smile with veneers but have concerns because you worry you have an overbite? When patients research veneers online and discover that the process usually only takes a matter of weeks, compared to having to wear braces for 12-36 months, they begin leaning towards seeing a dentist to discuss veneers. Although this is an option for some as an aesthetic fix for misaligned teeth, it is not advisable for all patients because it doesn’t address the real malocclusion issue. Read on to learn about overbites, overjets, veneers, and orthodontics!
Overbite vs. Overjet
What many people assume to be an overbite is actually called an overjet:
- An overbite is when the top teeth overlap the bottom teeth, typically by one-third the bottom teeth’s height. This vertical overlap sometimes causes the bottom teeth to dig into the gums behind the top teeth.
- In contrast, an overjet (colloquially called “buck teeth”) is when a person’s top teeth protrude farther than the bottom teeth. This horizontal difference can make biting into certain foods very difficult.
Options to Improve Your Smile
If you have an overbite, overjet, underbite, crowding, or some other issue, we are here to help! But to determine the best treatment for your unique smile goals and situation, we invite you to schedule a consultation here at Farmington Dental and Orthodontics. However, we offer a brief glimpse into what your options might include:
Porcelain Veneers
Veneers are custom-crafted shells of porcelain attached to the surface of teeth. They are used for cosmetic reasons to cover teeth that are too small, chipped, irregularly shaped, stained, or otherwise imperfect. If you have an overbite or overjet, getting veneers would certainly help your smile look better, but would not address the true reasons for your bite misalignment. Typically, it is best to have overbites, overjets, and other alignment issues corrected functionally with braces or other orthodontic procedures before investing in veneers. If an alignment issue isn’t corrected before veneers are added to the teeth, there is a chance of the veneers cracking and breaking.
Orthodontics
In general, it is better to undergo orthodontic treatment prior to getting veneers. Although correcting an overbite or overjet with braces will take longer than getting veneers, the process will definitely be worth it in the long run. This is because braces will shift your teeth into a healthier and more functional position. Then, once your misalignment issue is fixed, you can consider adding veneers if you’re wanting the shape, color, and appearance of your teeth to be further improved.
Consult with Our Team!
At Farmington Dental and Orthodontics, Dr. Stroope is highly experienced in a wide range of orthodontic options, including Invisalign® aligner therapy and ceramic, lingual, and metal braces. For more information, contact our expert team. We are here to answer all your dental-related questions so your mouth can be as beautiful, healthy, and happy as possible.