Can You Fix an Overbite Naturally? – What You Need to Know

An overbite is one of the most common orthodontic issues, but it can lead to long-term oral health problems if left untreated. 

If you’re wondering, "Can you fix an overbite naturally?" the answer depends on the severity of your condition, your age, and your willingness to explore non-invasive overbite treatments. 

In this guide, we’ll break down what an overbite is, its causes, and various approaches to addressing it naturally and through professional interventions.

An overbite, also known as a deep bite, occurs when your upper front teeth overlap your lower front teeth. While a slight overbite is normal, an excessive overbite can cause dental complications like:

• Tooth wear and tear
• Jaw pain
• Speech difficulties
• Aesthetic concerns
• TMJ disorder

Several factors can lead to the development of an overbite, including: 

• Genetics: Hereditary traits significantly influence the size and shape of jawbones and teeth. If one or both parents have an overbite, their children are more likely to inherit this condition.  
• Thumb-Sucking: Extended thumb-sucking or prolonged use of pacifiers beyond the appropriate age can disrupt the natural alignment of teeth and jaw, often resulting in an overbite.  
• Jaw Irregularities: Discrepancies in the size or position of the jawbones, whether caused by developmental anomalies or trauma, can contribute to overbite formation.  
• Harmful Oral Habits: Behaviors like tongue thrusting or extended bottle-feeding during infancy can interfere with proper jaw and teeth development, increasing the risk of an overbite.

Orthodontic Tools

Devices like tongue trainers or myofunctional trainers, used under a professional’s guidance, can help retrain mouth and jaw muscles, gradually promoting better teeth alignment. 

Tongue Posture Training

Poor tongue posture can contribute to an overbite. Techniques like myofunctional therapy focus on retraining the tongue's position to improve bite alignment and facial symmetry.

Breaking Harmful Habits

Behaviors like thumb-sucking, nail-biting, or pen-chewing can worsen an overbite. Breaking these habits early is a simple yet effective way to prevent further misalignment.

Maintaining Proper Posture

Believe it or not, poor posture can exacerbate jaw misalignment. Keeping your head aligned with your spine and avoiding slouching can positively impact your bite.

If natural methods don’t yield noticeable results, it may be time to explore professional overbite treatments. Orthodontic care is tailored to your specific needs, ensuring lasting results and improved oral health.

Some of the treatments that experts can use to fix your overbite include:

Braces

Braces are one of the most effective solutions for fixing an overbite. By gradually shifting your teeth into their proper positions, braces correct both alignment and bite issues over time.

Invisalign®

Invisalign clear aligners are a discreet and comfortable alternative to braces. They’re particularly effective for mild to moderate overbites and are a popular choice for adults and teens.

Surgical Interventions

For severe overbites that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone, surgical intervention may be required. Orthognathic surgery, commonly referred to as jaw surgery, involves adjusting the position of the jawbones to properly align the teeth and enhance facial symmetry. This procedure is typically carried out by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in partnership with an orthodontist.

Retainers

Following orthodontic treatment or surgical correction, using retainers is crucial for preserving the improved alignment of the teeth. Retainers play a key role in preventing relapse and maintaining the long-term stability of the treatment results. They come in various forms, including removable retainers and fixed retainers that are secured to the back of the teeth.

Combined Treatment Approaches

In certain situations, achieving the best results may require a combination of orthodontic treatment, surgery, and dental appliances. This integrated approach targets the overbite's dental and skeletal aspects, ensuring ideal functional and aesthetic improvements

Even if you’re already seeking treatment, prevention plays a vital role in maintaining oral health. Here are some tips:

Break Harmful Habits Early: Avoid prolonged thumb-sucking, pacifier use, or bottle-feeding beyond infancy, as these habits can affect jaw and teeth development.  

Practice Proper Tongue Posture: Ensure your tongue rests against the roof of your mouth rather than pushing against your teeth, which can help prevent misalignment.  

Promote Good Chewing Habits: Encourage proper chewing techniques and avoid chewing on hard objects like pens, fingernails, or ice to reduce unnecessary pressure on teeth.  

Regular Dental Checkups: Visit the dentist regularly for early detection and management of any dental issues that may lead to an overbite, such as crowding or misaligned teeth. 

An overbite doesn’t have to hold you back from enjoying a confident, healthy smile. Whether you’re exploring natural remedies or need advanced orthodontic care, it is always best to consult with a dentist before opting for a treatment.

Schedule your consultation today by calling us at (407) 809-8973, and let us help you discover the best path to a perfectly aligned bite!