Overbite is a condition in which the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth in the front of the mouth and, under most circumstances, it is not an issue that necessitates intervention. In fact, a slight overbite is incredibly common and should not interfere with normal function at all. It is when overbite is more pronounced that it can pose problems.
One of the problems related to overbite is simple aesthetics. If your malocclusion is pronounced, it can alter the appearance of your face, making your mouth appear uneven or encouraging unusual and unbecoming protrusions. When visible in this way, it is likely that overbite is also increasing risks for:
- Uneven tooth wear
- Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
- Jaw pain and TMJ
- Airway problems and snoring
- Speech irregularities
- Gum disease
The best way to determine if your overbite is a potential source of oral health problems is through an evaluation at our Houston dental office. During this meeting, LVI Fellow Dr. Ronald Konig will carefully assess the extent of your overbite and offer solutions based on your specific needs.
What Causes an Overbite?
Overbite may be a result of jaw shape, size, and development. It may also be caused by the manner in which teeth erupt. The condition may be exacerbated by tongue thrust, thumb sucking, and abnormal breathing patterns in children.
If your child is a thumb sucker or if you notice an inclination towards mouth breathing, he or she may be at risk for developing bite-related oral health problems. Houston dentist Dr. Ronald Konig will work directly with you and your child to address these behaviors and provide targeted treatments to help prevent the larger problems they may cause.
Like children, adults suffering from overbite may benefit from a combination of therapies, most commonly myofunctional therapy and orthodontics. If your overbite is less pronounced, instant orthodontics may be an option. If the condition has caused or exacerbated TMJ, Dr. Konig may recommend one of several TMJ treatment options in addition to orthodontic services.
Why Choose Dr. Konig for Overbite Treatment?
When seeking overbite treatment in Houston, you have several options. Few are as qualified, dedicated, and experienced as Dr. Konig.
Voted Houston’s Top TMJ Dentist in a Living Magazine reader’s poll and recognized as Houston’s Top Dentist by Houstonia magazine, Dr. Konig is respected and appreciated by his patients, each of whom he takes time to work directly with, allowing him to determine the most effective treatment options.
One of only 15 dentists in Texas who are members of the International College of Craniomandibular Orthopedics, Dr. Konig is also one of only four dentists in the Houston area to have been awarded a Fellowship by the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVIF), a testament to his commitment to continuing education, training, and seminars that help keep our practice on the cutting edge of patient safety and treatment efficacy.
While nice and affirming, distinctions, awards, recognition and titles are not what drive Dr. Konig or inform his practice. It is you, the patient, who prompts these efforts towards creating a dental practice that is welcoming, comfortable, and effective. If you have questions about our services or how we can help you achieve optimal oral health and beauty, please call 713-668-2289 and schedule a consultation today.
The Konig Center for Cosmetic and Comprehensive Dentistry is located in Houston. Dr. Konig serves The Woodlands, King, Conroe, Sugar Land, Katy, Galveston, Baytown, and all surrounding areas of Texas.
