Overbite Surgery

An overbite is one of the common orthodontic conditions, where the upper teeth protrude or project significantly over the lower teeth. Earlier, this problem was not taken so seriously, as this usually does not cause any major health problem. However, today, more and more people with overbite problems are considering the options available for overbite correction. As far as the causes of overbite are concerned, it is more commonly found to be a hereditary condition. However, the habit of thumb sucking, as well as using pacifiers can contribute towards the development of overbite problem. Even the habit of thrusting the tongue can be a significant factor for getting overbite problem. Basically, this problem can be of two types, dental overbite and skeletal overbite. As the names suggest, dental overbite is purely tooth related, while the skeletal one is associated with the jaw bones. Overbite correction is usually done with the help of orthodontic treatment, which generally involves orthodontic braces and surgery.

Importance of Overbite Correction Surgery

It is employed for correcting skeletal overbite, while braces are the preferred option for dental overbite. Skeletal overbite, as we know, is related with the defect in the jaw bones and hence, dental braces will be of little help. Its importance lies not only in enhancing the look of an individual, but also in preventing some common dental problems. Overbite can often make it tough to maintain oral hygiene, which in turn, can contribute towards the development of a number of oral and dental problems. Overbite can not only change the structure of a face and make it less attractive, but cause periodontal diseases, abnormal wear and tear of teeth, problem in chewing or biting food, and temporomandibular joint pain or disorder as well. An overbite corrective surgery can help one to avoid such complications in the future.

Overbite Surgery Procedure

If overbite is minor, it can be corrected with dental braces. Adults, as well as children as young as 10 years of age can go for this option. But, if overbite is caused by an abnormal jaw position, then orthognathic surgery can be required. Only an expert oral surgeon can perform such overbite surgery. Prior to the surgery, a proper evaluation of the condition is carried out with the help of diagnostic tests like, X-rays. An individual with overbite problem may need to be admitted to the hospital or the surgical center for a number of days. The oral surgeon usually makes several incisions inside the mouth, so as to get an access to the jaw bones. Then the jaw bones are adjusted or aligned properly.

Overbite Surgery Cost and Complications

The cost can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Cost of such surgery can also differ to an extent, depending on the location. On an average, the surgery can cost you somewhere around $8000 to $15,000. Though this surgery can help you to improve your smile and look, it may also cause a few complications. Like any surgery, this too can cause a bit of pain, besides carrying the risk for infection. Apart from these, a few individuals can get stiffness in the face for some time. Even the possibility of the shift of facial bones cannot be ruled out completely.

The risks and complications associated with corrective surgery can be however minimized to a great extent by following the advice of your dentists and the surgeon. Proper aftercare can significantly reduce the risk for infection associated with the surgery. On the other hand, this procedure can truly give you a perfect smile and better oral or dental health. If you are not sure about the success of this surgery, then you can always talk to your dentist and orthodontist. As far as the choice between braces and surgery is concerned, it depends on the degree of the overbite, which can also be evaluated by your orthodontist.