Are you curious if straightening your overbite will change your appearance? This is a common question among those with an overbite because an overbite affects more than just your smile; it impacts your facial profile, jaw, and even your confidence level. Understanding what happens during treatment can help you decide if it’s the best choice for you.
When you see a dentist in Richmond about correcting your overbite, you start the process to create an improvement that goes beyond the appearance of straight teeth. In addition to a straight smile, correcting an overbite can help achieve harmony in the facial features and improve how we function while chewing and talking.
What Facial Changes Can I Expect After Overbite Surgery?
One of the most common questions about overbite treatment is about facial changes after overbite surgery. Overbite correction, especially when involving orthognathic (jaw) surgery, can greatly improve how our upper and lower jaws are aligned. The positive changes may include the following:
- Decrease the prominence of the upper jaw or recede the chin
- Achieve a straighter jawline angle and a more defined profile
- Enhance the beauty of the smile and lip position
- Improve overall facial symmetry
Although each individual presents differently, the vast majority of patients have observed some change in facial appearance, in addition to the functional benefits.
How Does Overbite Correction Work?
Overbite correction typically involves orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners, and in severe cases, jaw surgery. During the initial consultation, your dentist near you in Richmond will evaluate the extent of your overbite and recommend the best approach.
- Small to medium overbites usually get better with just braces or Invisalign.
- Severe overbites may need orthodontics with or without surgery to have the best results.
The duration of treatment varies, but in general, it is 12 to 24 months for treatment, depending on how complicated the case may be.
Will Fixing My Overbite Improve My Health and Confidence?
Most importantly, correcting your overbite will impact your confidence by providing you with a smile you love to show off. However, what you may not know is that correcting your overbite will improve your oral health as well. Here is how correcting your overbite can help you:
- Decrease the likelihood of tooth wear and damage
- Avoid jaw pain and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) conditions
- Increase speech clarity and eating function
So, the benefits are twofold: you will look better and feel better every day.
Discover Your Best Smile with Expert Overbite Care!
Want a more beautiful, balanced smile with personalized expert care? Here at River Road Dental, we can create treatments aimed at improving facial harmony and building your confidence. Book your appointment today and start your overbite correction journey!
FAQs
Can fixing my overbite affect my breathing?
Fixing the jaw’s position can help you breathe better and may reduce snoring and sleep problems like sleep apnea.
Is overbite correction painful?
The majority of patients only feel mild discomfort during orthodontic adjustments, and the pain is manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
How soon after surgery will I see facial changes?
Swelling can last a few weeks, but many patients notice facial changes within the first month.
Can adults get overbite correction just as easily as teens?
Yes, adults can succeed in overbite corrections. Treatment may linger a little longer than that of younger patients.
Will fixing an overbite improve future dental problems?
Fixing an overbite can increase the chance of reducing risk factors for tooth decay, gum disease, and TMJ-related disorders that are associated with misaligned bites.