A severe overbite isn't merely a cosmetic issue. The overhanging front teeth are exposed to more potential damage due to the prominent position. Lower teeth can have the enamel worn away by the top teeth, increasing the risk of cavities, or can risk causing soft tissue damage to the roof of the mouth.

Misaligned teeth, misaligned jawbone, or a combination of the two can cause overbites. If you have a misaligned jawbone, you might think that surgery is the only way to correct your overbite. But there are a few steps your dentist can take that might save you from surgery.

Tooth Extraction

Regardless of the overbite cause, its likely that you will need to undergo a tooth extraction procedure to make room for the other teeth to scoot back into proper alignment. The dentist will usually remove these teeth from the middle to rear section of the jaw so as not to leave a highly noticeable gap during the treatment process.

But the dentist can't simply put some braces on after the tooth extraction. The gaps and the force of the orthodontics can end up pushing the rear teeth forward as the front teeth move back. You could end up still having an overbite and now also having a crossbite.

So an additional step is required prior to braces.

Temporary Anchorage Devices

Orthodontists are able to stabilize those gaps using temporary anchorage devices, or TADs. The TADs are also called mini-implants because they are metal screw-shaped devices that resemble the root of a dental implant.

Your orthodontist will implant the TADs in the extraction gaps. This involves cutting the gum, drilling a small hole into the jawbone, and inserting the screw. The gums are stitched shut and the area is allowed to heal before braces are put on.

The TADs will provide the counterforce necessary to prevent the back teeth from sliding forward. But the TADs will also be carefully placed so as not to block the front teeth from moving backwards.

Some patients will need to wear the devices for the entire orthodontic treatment while others can have the screws removed after a couple of months. Either way, the orthodontist will remove the devices once the teeth have moved sufficiently for the force not to be a problem.

Braces 

The type of braces used will depend on your specific scenario. Clear braces are the most attractive options, particularly for adults, but the trays aren't always strong enough to push back severe overbites. Metal braces might be required for at least part of the orthodontic treatment.

Ask your orthodontist like one from Virgin Valley Dental which braces are available for you to understand your specific options.