Spirit Dental Resources

Stained teeth are unattractive, so it’s no surprise that there are so many whitening products and techniques available today. Whether you want to take a DIY approach at home or you prefer to leave it up to the pros at your dentist’s office, whitening your teeth to the perfect shade is possible. To help you discover more about what your options are, we’ve compiled a list of the latest teeth whitening trends. Check them out below. Let’s Start with Some Stats Before we dive into all of the whitening methods out there, let’s take a look at a few interesting stats about this area of dentistry: The teeth whitening industry is a big one. Annual sales of whitening toothpastes around the world add up to around $3.2 billion. Plus, people spend a whopping $11 billion annually on whitening procedures and products. And the whitening market is expected to continue growing. Wow! In case you were wondering, professional whitening delivers better results. While 82.5% of patients stated that they saw a noticeable improvement in the color of their teeth after a professional treatment, 63.8% of people noticed improvements when they used an at-home whitening product. There are several reasons to take white teeth pretty seriously. You could be around 58% more likely to land a job after you’ve had your teeth brightened. Really! And nearly 100% of people (99.7%, to be exact) feel that an attractive smile is a social asset. Popular At-Home Whitening Trends Want to get a whiter smile in the comfort of home? You aren’t alone. Some people just don’t like being in the dentist’s chair, even if it’s for a cosmetic procedure, while others may want to try a more affordable option first. Whatever your reasoning is, there are a few trends that you can consider. Not all of these are created equal, though. Sticking with Whitening Strips, Gels, Trays, and Toothpastes When it comes to whitening products that you can use safely at home, you can choose from strips, gels, trays, and various toothpastes. Because so many of these types of products are readily available in stores and online, and because they’re affordable, you can try more than one to see which option will give you the results that you’re after. Toothpastes designed to whiten your teeth are easiest because you can take steps to brighten your chompers while brushing twice a day, so you don’t need to put any extra effort in. Basically, these toothpastes are designed to help reduce and remove stains on the surface of teeth. The polishing action doesn’t involve harsh bleaching agents, and toothpastes that are approved by the ADA are gentle enough to use daily. With trays, strips, and gels that you can purchase over-the-counter, you get even more brightening power in a shorter amount of time because you’re applying a whitening product right onto your teeth and allowing it to work over the course of several minutes. Using these too often, however, might lead to side effects like sensitivity and irritation, so it’s best to carefully read the label and follow the directions closely for optimal results.   Trying the Au Naturel Route For those interested in whitening their teeth at home without the use of synthetic ingredients, there are some natural tricks that have become trendy. These tactics might require more patience, and you may never really get the same impressive results that you could get from other whitening products. You can try brushing with some baking soda to help your teeth get to a brighter shade. Baking soda is safe to use (in fact, it might already be an ingredient in the toothpaste that you use daily). To create a paste, just mix some water with pure baking soda and then brush your teeth with it. The mild abrasion may help reduce surface stains caused by what you eat and drink daily. Another natural ingredient is hydrogen peroxide. A lot of whitening toothpastes use it to help brighten smiles, so some people like to dilute hydrogen peroxide with water before using it like a mouthwash—just be sure you don’t swallow it! A word of caution: doing this too much and too often may result in sensitivity. Taking an Unconventional Approach Beyond the usual products that you can purchase in stores, there are other whitening trends that have become quite popular lately. Oil pulling, which is an Ayurvedic treatment that claims to be a natural way to detoxify the body and whiten teeth, has become well-known, so a lot of people are giving it a try. Basically, you take a bit of oil, such as coconut oil, and swish it around in your mouth for several minutes. The problem is that there’s no scientific evidence to show that this tactic does anything to whiten your smile. Charcoal products have become a super trend in the world of teeth whitening, claiming that they can help you achieve a brighter smile in no time, and in a natural way. Unfortunately, like oil pulling, there isn’t enough science to prove that using charcoal on your teeth is safe or effective. Experts advise against using such abrasive products because they may cause long-term damage to the enamel—and that could actually make your teeth yellow! So, even though you might see some whitening effects after using charcoal, the short-term boost in brightness isn’t worth the potential damage it’s doing. Using LED Light Kits at Home Dentists use special lights during some professional whitening treatments in order to boost the effectiveness of the whitening gel that they’re using. So, if you come across an LED whitening kit that you can purchase for use at home, you might be tempted to give it a try.   Only using an LED light on your teeth won’t help remove stains; instead, you need a combination of a whitening agent and the light for this strategy to work. However, before trying one of these trendy products, consider that experts have warned that they might discolor fillings and cause discolorations between the teeth. The bleaching agent may even lead to damage from overuse, as well as sensitivity in the teeth and irritation in the gums. Want to Stick with the Pros? Some people don’t even want to waste their time with at-home products, especially when they want to dramatically whiten their teeth. This is where your dentist can help! Professional teeth whitening services use higher concentrations of ingredients that can brighten your smile quickly and safely. In addition to seeing your dentist for whitening treatments, though, you can help keep stains at bay simply by making regular appointments for checkups and cleanings.   Achieving and Maintaining a White Smile Is Easier Than Ever! Whether you opt to whiten your teeth at home or at the dentist’s office is entirely up to you. If you’re going to take the DIY approach, however, experts highly recommend sticking with products that are ADA approved for safety and effectiveness. Other than using at-home products or making an appointment for a professional whitening treatment, brushing and flossing twice a day is a wise way to keep your chompers sparkling and healthy, so don’t neglect your oral hygiene routine. Sources: https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/blogs/trends-teeth-whitening/# https://benefitsbridge.unitedconcordia.com/which-teeth-whitening-trends-are-actually-worth-considering/ https://www.wsls.com/news/virginia/roanoke/new-teeth-whitening-trend-may-cause-long-term-damage/ https://www.smilebrilliant.com/articles/does-led-teeth-whitening-work https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/teeth-whitening/led-teeth-whitening-right-for-you https://www.healthline.com/health/hydrogen-peroxide-teeth-whitening#3

To use a water flosser or string floss: that is the question. And it’s an important question because you want to take the right steps daily to keep as much plaque off of your teeth as possible. The right flossing technique can help keep tooth and gum problems at bay, but there are pros and cons associated with using a water flosser vs. string floss. That’s why we’ve broken it all down for you below. String Floss: The Pros As the name implies, string flossing involves the use of a thin string that you gently pass in between all of your teeth. Using a semi-circular motion helps you target the sides of each tooth, as well as the gums, so that you can effectively scrape away damaging plaque, as well as remove small particles of food that you might’ve missed while brushing. Simple enough, right? Another reason why string floss is so popular is because it’s inexpensive. Simply purchase some string floss while you’re grocery shopping! A single package could last quite a while, too, which is definitely a plus. You could purchase floss picks, so you don’t have to worry about cutting enough string and wrapping it around your fingers as you make your way throughout your mouth. Plus, with a floss pick, which consists of a small amount of string on a plastic handle, you might even find it easier to reach your back teeth. There are different types of string floss that you can choose from. For example, waxed floss might be easier to use if regular floss tends to get stuck in between your teeth. Or, you could look for floss that’s specially designed for those with tight teeth. Now, that’s a relief! With some string floss handy, you can floss anytime and anywhere! String Floss: The Cons Flossing with a string might cause bleeding, especially if you’re too aggressive or fast. The more you floss, though, and the gentler that you are, the less likely it might be that your gums bleed. In the event that your gums continue to bleed, or you experience gum sensitivity, despite a consistent brushing and flossing routine, it’s best to consult with your dentist to rule out conditions like gingivitis. Some people find it really difficult to floss in between their back teeth, whether they use regular string floss or a floss pick. That’s a problem! Using the same string between multiple sets of teeth (as would be the case when using a floss pick) might actually lead to the distribution of bacteria or food particles. You definitely don’t want that. It could be difficult to figure out how to hold string floss properly, and that can make flossing more time-consuming or frustrating than it needs to be. Some people never really get the hang of it, and that might even discourage them from flossing at all. Not good! Water Flosser Pros When most people think of flossing, they think of string floss, but there is another option to get the same job done. Also referred to as water picking, water flossing uses an electronic, handheld device that shoots a stream of water with the right amount of pressure. Directing this stream into the areas between your teeth can help remove plaque and food particles just like string floss would. The massaging action of a water flosser might help boost the health of your gums, provided that you use the product correctly and avoid causing irritation. You might find it easier to reach every area of your mouth when you use a water flosser. It may even be a better choice for those have braces, as well as those who have bridgework.   You might discover that you’re able to spend less time water flossing than string flossing. There’s no need to fumble with wrapping string around your fingers while ensuring that you use the right motions to scrape the surfaces of the teeth and gums. Plus, water flossers could be a better choice if you have arthritis. Here’s a big one: when researchers compared water flossing to string flossing, they found that water flossing was more effective at reducing plaque. Experts also determined that water flossing could be more effective at reducing gum bleeding and gingivitis. Wow! Water Flosser Cons Unlike string floss, which is easy to find and inexpensive, water flossers can be pricey. Plus, because there are so many different types of water flossers to choose from, the buying process could become daunting or confusing.    Water flossers come in a range of models, some of which are larger than others and require more storage space in your bathroom. Also, water flossers need to be plugged in or charged up for use. If your flosser uses a rechargeable battery and you forget to charge it, you won’t be able to floss. Yikes! And packing your water flosser when you have to travel might be a hassle as well. You may feel as though you don’t have as much control when using a water flosser, as opposed to string floss, particularly if you’re trying to target a specific area. When using a water flosser, you’ll need to lean over the sink and move the flosser along your teeth, ensuring the stream gets in between them, while allowing the water to flow out of your mouth. It might take a bit of time for you to get used to how the pressure feels, and it might get messy as you learn how to avoid splashing water everywhere. Daily Flossing: You Have Options! Brushing your teeth twice a day is a good start when it comes to removing plaque, but your brush will really only work on the surfaces of your chompers. To get to the areas in between your pearly whites, flossing is a must. Your dentist or dental hygienist can teach you how to do it right. And the best part is that it only takes a couple of minutes to floss your whole mouth, so you can easily do it once or twice a day as part of your oral hygiene routine. Hopefully, this guide has given you some insight into the advantages and disadvantages of the types of flossing tools available. You might decide to try string flossing before purchasing a more expensive water flosser to see if you like it better. Ultimately, though, your dentist will be able to tell you whether or not your flossing is on point, and he or she can also help you choose the right tool for your particular oral health needs. So don’t forget to schedule those dental checkups! Sources: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/315992 https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml https://www.deltadentalwa.com/blog/entry/2018/06/floss-vs-water-flosser https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/dental-floss/faq-20058112 https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/waterpik-vs-flossing#takeaway https://www.oglf.org/waterpik-vs-flossing/

If you’re pregnant, you might wonder if it’s safe to receive oral health care from your dental hygienist and dentist. Should you stick to your appointments for checkups and cleanings? Is there an increased risk of developing certain oral health problems while pregnant? And is it a good idea to receive more advanced dental treatments while you’re expecting? These are all valid questions, so we’ve compiled a few dental care during pregnancy guidelines to outline what steps you can take to keep your mouth, and your growing baby, healthy until your due date. Don’t Neglect Dental Care While Pregnant! According to the American Dental Association, pregnant women can safely receive oral health care. That includes dental x-rays and local anesthesia. Hooray! Plus, you can even receive emergency dental treatments (think: root canals, restorations, and extractions) while pregnant. Tip: Have your dentist and obstetrician work together to help ensure any treatments that you receive will be safe. Note: Some women make it a point to see the dentist during their second trimester, as it might be uncomfortable to be on your back for an extended period of time during the third trimester. Your dentist might even recommend postponing non-emergency procedures until you’ve reached your second trimester, or until after you’ve given birth, depending on where you are in your pregnancy when the oral health problems are diagnosed.   Pregnancy Means Your Risk for Certain Conditions Might Increase While pregnant, your body is going through a lot of changes—you are growing a baby inside of your belly, after all! Unfortunately, those changes may come with an increased risk of certain oral health problems, which include: Gingivitis – hormonal changes throughout pregnancy may actually boost your risk of gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). Left untreated, it could progress to periodontitis (gum disease), which may increase your odds of having a premature baby or an underweight baby. Yikes! Tip: if you develop gum disease while pregnant, your dentist can safely perform scaling and root planing, so you can treat it right away. That’s a relief! Enamel erosion – morning sickness, and the vomiting that comes along with it, may lead to erosion. Tip: if you vomit, it’s best to wait before brushing your teeth. In the meantime, simply mix a teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water. Use this mixture as a mouth rinse to neutralize damaging stomach acid. Pregnancy tumors – the term sounds frightening, no doubt, but pregnancy tumors are caused by hormonal changes that lead to the development of a benign growth on your gums. No need to worry! Cavities – your risk of developing a cavity while pregnant may increase if you’re snacking more often because of cravings, if you aren’t following your usual oral hygiene routine, or if you have dry mouth, as a few examples. Steps You Can Take to Keep Your Mouth Healthy Before and During Pregnancy Are you planning on getting pregnant? Well, there are some steps that you can take right away to maintain your oral health until your baby is born. First off, set an appointment so that your dental hygienist can clean your teeth. Then, your dentist can check your teeth and gums. If there are any problems that need to be treated, no matter how minimal or advanced they might be, you can get it all done before you become pregnant so you won’t have to worry later on. After getting pregnant, let your dentist know. Even though routine and urgent care can be provided during any month of your pregnancy, your dentist might advise postponing elective procedures (cosmetic procedures or teeth whitening, for example) until after you’ve had your baby. Letting your dentist know about any medications and supplements that you’re taking is also a wise move. Beyond seeing your dentist as you normally would, maintaining your oral hygiene routine at home is important while pregnant, even though you might feel really tired. Tip: if you’re experiencing morning sickness that’s making it hard for you to brush your teeth, try a bland-tasting toothpaste.    Finally, focus on your diet. Sure, you might have cravings for sugary treats, but it’s best to stick with healthy options, like fresh fruit. Eating too many sweets may increase your odds of developing cavities. And did you know that a baby’s teeth start forming roughly three months into your pregnancy? Consuming nutrient-rich foods may help support your little one’s bones, gums, and teeth. Just another reason to eat right! Happy Mouth, Happy Baby! Taking care of yourself while pregnant can help ensure that you’ll deliver a healthy, happy baby. Experts recommend staying on track with your dental appointments, while also brushing, flossing, and eating a nutritious diet daily. With the right dental insurance plan, you won’t have to skip a beat when it comes to keeping your teeth and gums clean and strong before, during, and after pregnancy. And that’s good news because, once your baby is in your arms, you’ll want to take loads of pictures while sporting the biggest smile! Sources: https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/pregnancy https://www.healthline.com/health/pyogenic-granuloma#location https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/gingivitis-periodontal-disease https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-care-pregnancy#1 https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/is-it-safe/dental-work-and-pregnancy-1185/

Dental fillings are super common, yet a lot of people aren’t entirely clear on what fillings are made of, how fillings are placed in the teeth, and when they can be used to fix a tooth. Want to learn more about dental fillings so that you can be better prepared the next time you see your dentist to have your cavities filled? We’ve outlined the ins and outs of fillings below. When Are Dental Fillings Recommended? When you head to the dentist for a checkup, he or she will examine your teeth and take x-rays to look for signs of decay and damage. If you’re diagnosed with a cavity, if a tooth is cracked or broken, or if there are indications that your teeth are worn down, a dental filling can be used to salvage the tooth and restore its strength. What Are the Different Types of Dental Fillings? There are several different materials that can be used to successfully fill in any areas of decay within a tooth. Your dentist can discuss the pros and cons of each option with you so that you can choose the one you’d prefer. Composite fillings are popular because they can match the natural color of the rest of a tooth, allowing them to blend in without being noticeable. These fillings will bond to the structure of your tooth, and they can be used on worn teeth, as well as teeth that are broken or chipped. Despite these advantages, however, composite fillings might degrade more quickly than amalgam fillings would. They might also be pricier than amalgam fillings. Amalgam fillings have been around longer than composite fillings. These are strong and durable, so they’re typically longer lasting, and they might be more affordable than composite fillings as well. Also known as silver fillings, these won’t be as aesthetically pleasing, though, because they won’t match the color of your teeth. They may also be more prone to fractures and cracks, and because they contain mercury, they can release low amounts of mercury vapor as well, so that’s definitely something to think about. Ceramic fillings are typically made of porcelain that can match the color of natural teeth. This material can be more resistant to getting stained over time, too, when compared to composite fillings. Nice! The main disadvantage is the price, as these fillings can be expensive. Glass ionomer fillings are a mix of glass and acrylic and are often chosen when fillings need to be placed below the gum line. What’s interesting about these fillings is that they release fluoride to further help protect a tooth from decay. How neat is that?! It’s important to note, however, that glass ionomer fillings can be more vulnerable to wearing down and fracturing, as the material is weaker than other options. Gold fillings are a type of metal filling, and they’re more expensive than silver amalgam fillings. Also, they’ll be obvious when placed in your teeth (but some people like the look of gold in their chompers). A major perk is that they’ll be more durable and stronger than other materials, such as composite fillings. How Are Dental Fillings Placed? You might be nervous about having your teeth filled, especially if it’s your first time going through it, but rest assured that this is a very common procedure that dentists perform every day. In fact, once you’re finished, you might realize that it wasn’t as bad as you had imagined it would be. Note: if you’re too stressed and anxious and you can’t seem to calm yourself down no matter how hard you try, talk to your dentist about sedation options that can help you relax while you're getting your cavities filled. Ahh, that’s better.   To help you prepare for what’s ahead, we’ve outlined the basic steps that are involved when a dentist places a filling in a tooth: You’ll receive a local anesthetic to thoroughly numb the area that will be worked on so you won’t feel anything. Using a special drill, your dentist will remove all of the decay within the tooth so that only healthy tooth is left behind. Fun fact: other tools, such as air abrasion instruments and lasers, can now be used in place of a traditional drill to get the job done. After all of the decay is gone, your dentist will start to create the ideal shape for the filling, and this shaping procedure will depend upon the type of filling that you’re going to get. If necessary, your dentist might also apply a liner or base in order to protect the pulp of the tooth. Some filling materials need to be hardened using a special light, so your dentist might apply a layer of the filling, stop, use the light to harden it, and then continue on with this process in order to ensure that the filling is nice and strong. After the filling is in place, your dentist will ensure that your bite is correct, and will polish the filling to remove sharp edges. Once everything is perfect, you’ll be free to go! What Can You Expect After You’ve Gotten Fillings? Shortly after your filling is complete, you can expect that the anesthetic will wear off and you’ll regain sensation in your mouth. Your dentist will give you instructions regarding how long you should wait before chewing on the side of your mouth where a filling was placed. Something to be aware of: sensitivity may occur after a tooth is filled. You might find that cold or sweet foods and drinks, pressure, or air cause sensitivity, and this tends to be more common with composite fillings. If you experience sensitivity, tell your dentist. You might be advised to wait it out, as the sensitivity could hang around for a couple of weeks. If it doesn’t go away, though, it might be caused by a filling that’s too high and needs to be adjusted, or there might be another problem that needs to be addressed to bring you relief. Unfortunately, dental fillings won’t last forever. Depending upon the material that was used, a filling could last for many years without causing any problems, but be aware that it might fall out, crack, leak, or simply become worn out over time. On top of that, fillings might even be damaged by clenching and grinding your teeth. By simply visiting your dentist regularly for checkups, you’ll be able to stay on top of your fillings and have them replaced as soon as they need to be.   Are Dental Fillings Expensive? The price of dental fillings will depend on several factors, such as the material that's used. Thankfully, dental insurance can help bring out-of-pocket costs down so you don’t have to break the bank to fix your teeth. Plus, with the right policy, such as those offered by Spirit, you can get three cleanings per year so you can take an additional step towards keeping those pearly whites cavity-free. See? Dental fillings are pretty straightforward and nothing to fear! Your dentist will guide you through the entire process so you can make the best decisions for your teeth, and you can rest easy knowing that fillings are a great way to restore—and, therefore, save—a tooth that’s showing signs of decay. Sources: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/fillings   https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/cavities-tooth-decay/cavity-fillings-what-to-expect-types-problems https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-health-fillings#1  

Edentulism: it’s a term that you may not have heard of, but you might know someone who has been diagnosed with it. Check out the information below to learn about this oral health condition, and to access some tips on how you can prevent it.What Is Edentulism?Edentulism is tooth loss that typically affects adults and seniors. While partial edentulism involves the loss of one or more teeth, complete edentulism is a term used when all of the teeth are lost.  You might be surprised to discover that this condition affects millions of people in the U.S. alone, and that 25% of seniors who are over 60 are toothless.The unfortunate thing about edentulism—aside from the fact that it leaves you without your teeth—is that, once it starts, it can’t be stopped. Instead, a dentist can only help by fitting you with full dentures or bridgework. Another treatment option would be to get dental implants, or a patient could opt to get a combination of dentures and implants.What Causes Edentulism?Overall, edentulism sounds pretty bleak, doesn’t it? But understanding the risk factors is one way to put yourself back in control. If you know what can lead to tooth loss, you can take steps starting today to prevent this embarrassing problem in the future.  Generally, how well you take care of your teeth has an impact on your risk of losing them. In adults, cavities and gum disease are the main causes of tooth loss. Periodontal disease takes its toll on the bones and gums that support teeth, so as the destruction of these structures worsens, the teeth become loose and fall out or they end up needing to be extracted. Amongst the elderly, old fillings, dry mouth, gum recession, and plaque may all play a role in edentulism.Here are a few other factors that could contribute to edentulism:Smoking may increase the odds of someday losing your pearly whites. In addition to boosting your risk of edentulism, smoking also leads to gum damage. And if you thought that vaping was a better option, think again; it, too, may lead to oral health problems. Bottom line: it’s best to quit your nicotine addiction sooner rather than later.Stress may contribute to the development of edentulism, particularly if it causes you to grind your teeth, resulting in serious damage.Certain medications may cause side effects that affect the overall health of your mouth. For example, you might be taking a medication that leads to uncomfortable dry mouth, which could adversely affect your gums.Age and genetics are a couple of factors that can be a little harder to control when it comes to preventing edentulism. More than 70% of seniors who are over 65 have gum disease to some degree, and gum disease can make you more susceptible to tooth loss. Also, if other people in your family have lost their teeth, you might be at an increased risk as well. Don’t let this get you down, though, as taking care of your teeth with the help of your hygienist and dentist may help bring your risk down.Certain conditions, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, hypertension, and heart disease, might make you more susceptible to tooth loss. Conditions that increase your risk of developing gum disease may also boost your risk of edentulism. Again, it goes back to the health of your gums and their ability to keep your teeth firmly in place.  The Best Way to Protect Your Teeth: Brush Daily, and See Your Dentist!If you want to prevent your teeth from falling out as you get older, you’ll need to take steps to keep them clean and strong. Daily brushing and flossing twice a day at home is imperative if you want to reduce your risk.In addition to at-home care, routine dental exams and cleanings are absolutely necessary. Your dentist will be able to perform exams and take x-rays to diagnose and treat problems, such as cavities, right away. On the other hand, your dental hygienist will be able to give you a professional cleaning that will get your teeth sparkling and your gums nice and clean.Worried about paying for all of the preventative and restorative dental care that you need? The optimal dental insurance will give you access to three cleanings per year, as well as major restorative dental insurance whenever it's necessary. You could have peace of mind, and you won’t have to worry about being able to afford the dentist.   No one wants to think about dental problems and losing their beautiful teeth, along with their ability to chew and speak properly. By following a strict oral health care routine and supporting your whole body with healthy lifestyle choices, you could put yourself back in the driver’s seat and take action to keep your mouth looking and feeling fabulous, no matter your age.  Sources:https://www.yourdentistryguide.com/tooth-loss/https://www.infodentis.com/dental-bridge/edentulism.php

Updated, September 2022 An overbite is a common dental condition among children and adults. While a minor degree of overbite is indistinct and usually unproblematic, severe cases may lead to low self-esteem and more serious health issues. We have all the details regarding overbites, what causes them and how to correct them below.   What is an overbite? An overbite is a type of malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth, where the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth when the mouth is closed. This overlap may be so severe that the lower teeth touch the gums behind the lower teeth.   Types of overbites There are two common types of overbite — skeletal and dental — but some patients may have a combination of both. A skeletal overbite occurs when a person’s jaw bone has developed irregularly and the upper and lower jaw don’t align, pushing top teeth forward. A dental overbite occurs when the jaw is aligned, but either poor teeth alignment or overcrowding pushes the lower jaw back. Your dentist or orthodontist will measure the severity of your overbite based on a percentage scale to determine the best course of action.   What causes an overbite?  Overbite can occur due to a variety of factors, including:  Genetics Habits as an infant or toddler, such as thumb-sucking or pacifier use Habits as a teen or adult, such as nail biting or chewing on pens Teeth grinding Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ)   How to fix an overbite Because teeth aren’t lining up as they should, an overbite needs to be corrected — and the sooner you can fix it, the better. If you’ve been diagnosed with an overbite, you’ve got a number of options for treatment.   Braces While typically viewed as a method for straightening crooked or misaligned teeth, braces can also correct jaw alignment, helping to fix an overbite. There are various types of braces, all of which are designed to shift and straighten teeth over time. Traditional metal braces are secured to the teeth with cement and linked together using archwire. Elastic bands will likely also be fitted to the brackets to align the jaw through constant pressure. After the braces are removed, a retainer is beneficial for keeping the newly aligned teeth in place permanently.  On average, this process takes about two years, though it will differ from patient to patient.   Invisalign Don’t want to deal with the discomfort or appearance of traditional braces? Invisalign is a popular alternative that uses a series of clear trays to gradually mold your teeth into the desired position. While Invisalign costs more than braces, this treatment is far less noticeable and takes less time (about a year total). And if you have orthodontic insurance for adults, you may be able to save money.    Overbite surgery In more severe overbite cases that can’t be treated with orthodontic treatment alone, orthognathic surgery may be recommended to realign jaw bones and restore symmetry in the face. This approach is typically only used for adults, since children’s teeth and bones are still developing.   Tooth extraction Overcrowded teeth may be the culprit for what’s causing an overbite. In a child or teen, a dental professional may recommend removing certain baby teeth to create more space for adult teeth to come in straight. When teeth hold their normal position, the jaw also aligns normally.  Adults may also require extraction prior to using braces or Invisalign, so teeth have room to move into alignment.   Why is overbite correction important? You may want to fix your overbite for appearance reasons, but treatment in fact also helps to prevent other health complications — not just to the teeth — down the road. When left untreated, overbite can cause: TMJ Tooth decay or gum disease Misalignment of teeth Jaw pain Risk for teeth breakage Speech problems Headache Discomfort while eating Sleep apnea Altered facial structure   Dental insurance can help with overbite correction Fixing your overbite will not only give you a boost in confidence, but it will also keep your smile healthy and prevent other debilitating conditions. Enroll in a dental insurance plan to help shoulder some of the cost of an overbite correction procedure. Spirit Dental has low-cost dental insurance with no waiting periods. Get the treatment you need now—request a quote today.