An overbite is one of the most common dental alignment issues in children, occurring when the upper front teeth extend significantly beyond the lower front teeth when the mouth is closed. While a slight overbite is normal and often causes no problems, a more pronounced overbite can lead to a range of oral health complications, speech difficulties, and self-esteem challenges. Recognizing the signs of an overbite early and understanding its potential consequences empowers parents to seek timely treatment that supports their child's overall development. At AOMS Pediatric & Children's Dentistry, we help Amarillo families identify and address overbites before they lead to more serious concerns.

The effects of an overbite on oral health can be significant and wide-ranging. When upper teeth protrude excessively, they become more vulnerable to injury, especially during sports or active play. Children with overbites are at higher risk for chipped, cracked, or knocked-out front teeth because these teeth lack the protection that properly aligned lower teeth would provide. Additionally, an overbite often causes the lower teeth to contact the gum tissue behind the upper teeth, which can lead to gum irritation, recession, and even damage to the palate over time. The misalignment also creates uneven wear patterns on tooth surfaces, potentially leading to enamel erosion and increased sensitivity that may require restorative treatment in the future.

Is your child showing signs of an overbite? Early evaluation can make treatment simpler and more effective. Call AOMS Pediatric & Children's Dentistry at (806) 410-1919 or schedule an appointment online to have your child's bite assessed by our experienced pediatric dental team.

Speech development can be notably affected by an overbite, particularly when the condition is moderate to severe. The positioning of the teeth and jaw directly influences how children form sounds, and an overbite can interfere with proper tongue placement during speech. Children with significant overbites may develop a lisp or have difficulty pronouncing certain sounds clearly, especially those that require the tongue to make contact with the upper teeth or palate. Words containing "s," "sh," "f," and "v" sounds often present the greatest challenges. While these speech patterns may seem minor in early childhood, they can become more pronounced and harder to correct as children grow older, potentially affecting academic participation and social interactions.

Jaw pain and dysfunction represent another common consequence of untreated overbites. When the upper and lower jaws don't align properly, the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) experiences uneven stress during chewing, speaking, and even resting. Over time, this can lead to TMJ disorders characterized by jaw pain, clicking or popping sounds, headaches, and difficulty opening the mouth fully. Children may complain of discomfort when eating or experience fatigue in their jaw muscles after talking. Addressing the overbite through appropriate orthodontic treatment can help relieve this stress on the joint and prevent chronic pain issues from developing as your child grows into adolescence and adulthood.

Don't let an overbite affect your child's comfort, speech, or smile. Our compassionate team specializes in pediatric bite correction and is ready to help your family. Contact us at (806) 410-1919 or request a consultation through our website to explore your child's treatment options.

The emotional and social impact of an overbite should not be underestimated. As children become more aware of their appearance, a prominent overbite can become a source of embarrassment or anxiety. Some children may avoid smiling in photos, cover their mouth when laughing, or become reluctant to speak up in class. Teasing from peers about "buck teeth" or other comments can further damage self-confidence during critical developmental years. Correcting an overbite not only improves oral function but also helps children feel more confident in their appearance, supporting healthier social development and self-image. Our team at AOMS Pediatric & Children's Dentistry creates a warm, supportive environment where children feel comfortable throughout their treatment journey.

Several factors can contribute to the development of an overbite in children. Genetics plays a significant role, as jaw size and shape are often inherited traits. However, certain childhood habits can exacerbate or even cause an overbite to develop. Prolonged thumb sucking, pacifier use beyond age three, and tongue thrusting can all push the upper teeth forward over time. Our pediatric dentistry services include guidance on helping children break these habits at appropriate ages to minimize their impact on dental development. We also monitor jaw growth during regular checkups, allowing us to identify developing overbites early when intervention is most effective.

Treatment options for overbites depend on the child's age, the severity of the condition, and the underlying cause. For younger children, growth modification appliances can guide jaw development and improve alignment as the child grows naturally. Older children and teenagers may benefit from braces or other orthodontic approaches that gradually shift teeth into proper position. In some cases, addressing the overbite early can prevent the need for more invasive treatments later. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven, which allows specialists to assess jaw development and plan treatment at the optimal time for the best results.

Give your child the gift of a healthy, confident smile. Schedule an overbite evaluation at AOMS Pediatric & Children's Dentistry by calling (806) 410-1919 or visiting our contact page today. Our dedicated team is committed to providing gentle, effective care that sets your child up for a lifetime of excellent oral health.