If you’re looking for braces for overbite in Drexel Hill, Edgmont, and Marple Newtown, PA, you’re in the right place! Whether you’re a teen or an adult, you can choose from traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, or another option like Invisalign. At Carpinello Orthodontics, we offer effective ways to correct overbites and enhance your smile.
What is an Overbite?
An overbite happens when the upper front teeth overlap too much over the lower front teeth. A slight overlap is normal, but when it’s excessive, problems can arise. Severe overbites can lead to tooth wear, jaw discomfort, and even changes in facial appearance. Fixing an overbite improves aesthetics, function, and long-term oral health.
Causes of Overbites
Several factors can lead to an overbite:
Jaw growth problems, teeth alignment problems, crowding or spacing between incisors, thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or pacifier use past toddler age can affect palate growth and cause malocclusion. According to Dr. Adelina Fontes Das, a board-certified orthodontist in Avon and Torrington, CT, addressing these habits early in childhood can significantly reduce the risk of developing severe overbites later.
Problems Caused by Untreated Overbites
An untreated overbite can cause health and emotional problems:
- Speech difficulties – Certain sounds are harder to say clearly.
- Jaw pain and headaches – Pressure on the joints can cause discomfort or even TMJ problems.
- Chewing pain – Misaligned teeth make eating uncomfortable and can affect digestion.
- Tooth damage – Deep overbites can chip enamel, raise the risk of tooth decay, and lead to cavities.
- Aesthetics – Many patients feel unhappy with their appearance and hide their smile.
Fixing your bite improves teeth alignment, prevents damage, and boosts self-esteem.
The Treatment Process at Carpinello Orthodontics
Step 1: Your Initial Consultation
At Carpinello Orthodontics, treatment starts with a comprehensive consultation. Here’s what to expect during your appointment:
- Digital Imaging: Cameras, X-rays, and 3D scans are used to evaluate your teeth and jaw.
- Personalized Treatment Plan: We design a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
- Flexible Payment Options: We offer payment plans and work with your insurance to make braces affordable.
Step 2: Treatment Timeline
The length of treatment depends on your unique case. A typical timeline looks like this:
- Months 1–3: Braces are applied, and initial tooth alignment begins.
- Months 6–12: Significant progress in bite and teeth alignment occurs.
- Months 12–24: Final adjustments stabilize tooth and jaw positions.
Treatment progress is carefully monitored during regular appointments. Adjustments are made when needed to keep you on the path to success.
How Braces Fix Overbites
Braces strategically adjust teeth and jaws for proper alignment and healthy wear patterns:
- Brackets and Archwires: Gentle pressure guides teeth into their proper positions.
- Rubber Bands (Elastics): These help shift the jaw into alignment.
- Bite Blocks and Turbos: These devices reduce excessive overlap of the teeth during treatment.
Using these appliances ensures precision correction, proper alignment, and lasting results.
Types of Braces at Carpinello Orthodontics
We offer several orthodontic appliances to meet our patients’ needs:
- Metal Braces: Affordable and reliable, these are a popular choice for all ages.
- Ceramic Braces: Tooth-colored brackets make them less noticeable, perfect for patients who prefer discreet options.
- Invisalign Aligners: Clear trays designed for mild to moderate overbite and overjet cases.
Our team will recommend the best braces for your lifestyle and orthodontic needs.
Tips for Living with Braces
Eating with Braces
Eating with braces requires a little extra care to keep them safe and in good shape. It’s best to avoid sticky or hard foods like gum, caramel, and popcorn because they can damage the brackets and wires. Instead, choose soft foods such as mashed potatoes, pasta, yogurt, and scrambled eggs. These options are gentle on your teeth and make eating with braces easier and safer.
Caring for Your Braces
Good oral hygiene is very important for successful treatment. To care for your braces, make sure you brush and floss the right way. Tools like interdental brushes, floss threaders, and water flossers can help you clean around the wires and brackets. It also helps to avoid sweet snacks, since sugary foods can lead to cavities and tooth decay. By keeping your teeth clean and cutting back on sugar, you protect your smile throughout treatment.
Accidents happen, if brackets break or wires become loose, we offer prompt repairs to keep your treatment on track.
After Braces: Don’t Forget the Retainers!
After braces, retainers keep your smile straight and prevent teeth from shifting back. We offer three types of retainers:
- Hawley Retainers: Durable and adjustable, these retainers are made of wire and plastic.
- Clear Retainers: Nearly invisible, these are comfortable to wear and easy to clean.
- Fixed Retainers: Bonded behind teeth, they ensure long-term alignment.
Wearing your retainer as directed protects your investment in your new smile.
Benefits of Fixing an Overbite
Correcting an overbite offers many long-term benefits. It helps keep your teeth healthy by reducing wear, cracks, and decay. Proper alignment can also ease jaw pain and lower the risk of TMJ problems. Best of all, a straight smile can boost your confidence and improve how you feel about your appearance.
Why Choose Carpinello Orthodontics?
We proudly serve the communities of Drexel Hill, Edgmont, and Marple Newtown. Here’s why families trust us to fix their bite issues:
- Expertise: With years of experience in orthodontia, we deliver top-quality care.
- Advanced Technology: Tools like 3D imaging and digital X-rays ensure precision.
- Patient Satisfaction: Our welcoming office ensures every patient feels comfortable.
- Custom Plans: Whether you choose braces, aligners, or other solutions, we personalize your treatment.
Start Your Smile Journey Today
If you have concerns about an overbite or overjet, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation for a thorough diagnosis and a personalized procedure plan. Our expertise, modern technology, and focus on prevention and quality care set you on the path to a healthy smile you can be proud of!
Your new, confident smile awaits. Schedule your appointment today!
About the Authors
Dr. David Carpinello – Orthodontist in Drexel Hill, Edgmont, and Marple Newtown, PA
Dr. Adelina Fontes Das – Orthodontist in Avon and Torrington, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Will insurance pay for braces for overbite?
Some insurance plans cover part of the cost, and some may cover all of it. The best way to know is to contact your insurance company. They can tell you what’s included and how much you might need to pay out of pocket.
What type of braces are needed for an overbite?
Metal braces are the most common choice because they are strong and work well. Ceramic braces are another option if you want something less noticeable. For mild or moderate overbites, clear aligners like Invisalign can work great. In some cases, your orthodontist may recommend extra tools like appliances or headgear to help your treatment.
Can you get free braces for an overbite?
Some dental schools offer treatment at lower cost, and some non-profit programs may provide free care if you qualify. Check whether your insurance plan includes orthodontic benefits. Kids and teens may also be eligible for help through certain government programs.
