Understanding Overjet And Its Treatment Options
Overjet refers to the horizontal distance between the upper and lower front teeth when the jaws are closed — a frequent orthodontic condition where the front upper teeth extend too far beyond the lower ones. While a small degree of overjet is natural and functional, severe overjet can impair bite mechanics, raise the chance of injury, create challenges with biting or chewing, and even negatively impact appearance perception due to appearance-related anxiety.
Overjet can stem from a variety of causes. Hereditary factors are often key, meaning the size and alignment of the jaws can be passed down through families. Additional triggers involve extended non-nutritive sucking, or pacifier use, which can reposition the maxillary arch while retracting the mandibular dentition. Obstructed airways can also disrupt normal jaw development. In certain cases, missing lower teeth or an underdeveloped lower jaw may exacerbate or cause the condition.
The approach to treating overjet depends on the extent of misalignment and the developmental stage. For young patients, early intervention is highly recommended. Fixed orthodontic appliances and clear aligners are frequently prescribed to align the dental arches. When dysfunctional jaw development is involved, growth-modifying devices such as facemasks or palatal expanders may be recommended to stimulate forward growth of the lower jaw or moderate upper arch expansion.
For adults with severe overjet, non-surgical correction may be not enough to achieve optimal results. In such cases, jaw repositioning surgery may be required to restore facial harmony. This procedure is used in tandem with braces or aligners to guarantee post-surgical bite accuracy.
The length of treatment varies significantly, 東京 前歯矯正 depending on the complexity of the malocclusion. Mild overjet can often be resolved in 12 to 18 months, while surgical cases may require 24–36 months. Frequent orthodontist visits are essential to track progress and maintain treatment efficacy.
If you or your child exhibits signs of overjet, it is strongly recommended to seek expert evaluation. An initial consultation, ideally before permanent teeth fully erupt, allows the orthodontist to intervene before worsening and prevent more serious complications. Correcting overjet improves more than looks — it also boosts oral health by lowering the chance of injury.
Keeping teeth and gums healthy during treatment is essential. Orthodontic devices can make cleaning difficult, so daily oral care routines, along with professional prophylaxis, are key to preventing tooth decay and periodontal issues. After treatment concludes, wearing retainers as instructed is mandatory to prevent relapse.
Knowing the options for overjet correction empowers patients and families to choose the right path. With the right treatment plan, nearly all patients can be fully resolved, resulting in enhanced bite performance, greater comfort, and sustained self-esteem.