Buck teeth can be caused by genetic factors, as well as certain habits.
Also known as an overbite, buck teeth, refers to a case in which the front teeth protrude and overlap with the bottom teeth. The issue is a form of malocclusion, which can be caused by a range of factors. If you are concerned about your child’s bite and suspect that they have buck teeth, read on to find out what could be causing the issue, what you can do to prevent it from worsening over time, and what the treatment options are…
What are buck teeth?
Buck teeth are a type of misalignment of the teeth. Also known as an overbite or malocclusion, the issue varies in severity. Buck teeth may simply be a cause of cosmetic concern, but in more severe cases, the misalignment can cause damage to the nearby teeth, as well as the soft gum tissue. Other possible issues that can be caused by buck teeth include speech-related problems, breathing problems, and pain when chewing and biting.
What causes buck teeth?
One of the possible causes of buck teeth is a habit known as tongue thrusting. Tongue thrusting refers to a habit of frequently or consistently pressing or resting the tongue against the teeth — this action exerts pressure on the teeth and can cause them to shift from their proper positions over time. If the habit is ongoing, it is possible for an open bite to develop or for the incisors to protrude more than they should.
Another common cause of buck teeth, thumb sucking is a habit that can affect the alignment of the teeth, as well as the palate. In most cases, children tend to grow out of the habit between the ages of two and four years old before any serious damage has been done. If, however, the habit goes on for an extended period of time, it is possible for orthodontic issues to develop. Similarly, extended use of a pacifier can also cause an overbite.
In some cases, the front teeth protrude simply as the result of genetic factors. If you have noticed that your child’s teeth naturally protrude in this way, there is nothing that can be done to prevent the issue. You can, however, consult with an orthodontist who will be able to advise you on the best course of action. Ideally, you should take your child for an early orthodontic assessment at around the age of seven years old — at this stage, your orthodontist will be able to identify any bite-related problems and formulate a treatment plan for the future.
What are the treatment options?
Although it is not always necessary to treat buck teeth, there are a number of ways in which the issue can be resolved. If the misalignment is causing other oral health problems, or you are concerned about the way your smile looks, your orthodontist may recommend a treatment plan to straighten the teeth.
One of the most effective options for the treatment of buck teeth is the use of traditional braces. In some cases, it may be necessary to have some teeth extracted to create more space in the mouth before orthodontic treatment can begin.
Other possible treatments for buck teeth include palate expansion, in which the palate is gradually widened with an appliance; clear aligners, which is suitable for minor malocclusions; and jaw surgery, which may be recommended in severe causes.
How can we help?
At Straight Orthodontics, we treat a broad range of orthodontic issues. If you are concerned about the alignment of your teeth, or the condition of your child’s smile, we encourage you to come in and see us so that we can formulate a treatment plan best suited to your needs.
Our range of treatments includes braces, retainers, clear aligners, and early treatment — to see the full scope of services that we offer, please have a look here. To book an appointment, please contact us here or give us a call on 03 9585 8000.