Understanding buck teeth: Causes, risks, and effective treatment

While keeping aside rigid definitions, think of your upper teeth as the eaves of a roof that help to protect the lower teeth when you bite. When it comes to buck teeth, the eaves are extended too far horizontally over the lower teeth. A small amount of overbite is normal, but when that angle is increased, it becomes clinically important to treat. While this can sometimes just be a case of aesthetics, a more significant concern may exist. In this blog, we will examine the causes of buck teeth, the treatment options available, and how Caspersmile can help you fix that smile without spending a fortune.

What causes buck teeth?

Ever wondered what exactly triggers the appearance of buck teeth? It's a blend of genetics and environmental factors, where nature's blueprint mixes with outside influences. Let's break down the key factors contributing to this condition:

The genetic factor

Imagine your genes as the architects behind your smile. They control how your jaws and teeth are shaped, essentially dictating your dental structure. If your parents or grandparents had an overbite, you might inherit similar traits. It's not about copying their smile but more about inheriting a predisposition, a likelihood that your upper jaw might protrude more or that your teeth might develop in a way that leads to buck teeth. This inherited trait can often mean more frequent visits to an orthodontist to correct tooth alignment, especially in certain families.

Childhood habits

Childhood is full of learning, and sometimes, those habits can stick with us, even affecting our dental health. Some seemingly innocent behaviors can actually push our teeth in ways we didn't intend, setting the stage for buck teeth later on. Here are a few that might surprise you:

Thumb sucking: It might seem cute at first, but if a child continues sucking their thumb into their toddler years, it can push the upper teeth out while pulling the lower teeth inward. This prolonged pressure can significantly contribute to the development of buck teeth.
Excessive pacifier use: The trusty pacifier might calm your baby, but the way it's sucked on can cause similar forces to thumb sucking, pushing those upper teeth outward. Most dental experts suggest phasing out pacifiers by age two to avoid future issues.
Tongue thrusting: This happens when the tongue consistently presses against the upper teeth during swallowing. Though it often goes unnoticed, this gentle pressure over time can nudge the teeth forward.
Mouth breathing: While it seems like a harmless habit, breathing through the mouth — especially if nasal passages are blocked — can disrupt jaw development, contributing to a misaligned bite and, eventually, buck teeth.

Jaw size differences

Sometimes, the mismatch isn't in your teeth, but in the size or position of the jaws. If your upper jaw is larger or sticks out more than your lower jaw, it creates a natural imbalance, causing the upper teeth to move forward. This structural difference can be passed down genetically or develop during childhood.

Tumors and cysts

Though less common, tumors or cysts in the jaw can obstruct the normal growth of teeth. These can shift the teeth in unexpected ways, potentially causing buck teeth.

Health risks linked to buck teeth

While many see buck teeth as just an aesthetic concern, they can also bring about several health complications if left untreated. Here's what you need to know:

Risk of dental injury: Those protruding upper teeth are more vulnerable to bumps, falls, or any sort of impact, making them more prone to chipping or even loss.
Chewing difficulties: When the upper and lower teeth don't meet properly, it can be difficult to chew food. This can lead to digestion issues and even dietary restrictions.
Speech issues: A pronounced overbite can affect the positioning of the tongue, making it harder to articulate certain sounds clearly.
Jaw joint pain: Misalignment from buck teeth can lead to strain on the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), causing discomfort, jaw clicking, or difficulty opening and closing your mouth.
Oral hygiene challenges: Misaligned teeth can create hard-to-reach spots, making brushing and flossing more difficult. This increases the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay.
Emotional impact: Let's not ignore the psychological side. For many, an overbite can lower self-esteem and cause social anxiety, affecting personal interactions and confidence.

Treatment options for buck teeth

The good news is that buck teeth don't have to stay forever! A range of treatment options can help you get your smile back in line. The best method depends on the severity of your overbite, the underlying cause, and your personal preferences. Let's take a look at the options:

Clear aligners

Clear aligners, like Caspersmile, are a modern solution to overbite correction. These nearly invisible plastic trays gently move your teeth over time.

How they work: You'll wear a series of aligners, each slightly different, changing them every few days.
Pros: Invisible, comfortable, and removable for eating and cleaning.
Cons: Less effective for severe cases, requires dedication to wear them consistently.

Bite better, live better!

With Caspersmile clear aligners, you can achieve your perfect bite in just 3-5 months.

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Metal braces

Metal braces are the traditional go-to for correcting overbites. These sturdy devices use metal brackets attached to each tooth, connected by wires that an orthodontist adjusts regularly. The controlled pressure from the braces gradually moves teeth into their proper positions.

How they work: Braces use constant, gentle pressure to guide teeth and bones into place.
Pros: Highly effective, affordable, and can treat most alignment issues.
Cons: Noticeable appearance, requires careful oral hygiene, and some discomfort during adjustments.

Ceramic braces

Ceramic braces offer the same function as metal ones but with a less visible appearance. They use clear or tooth-colored brackets, making them a popular choice for those who want a subtler look while still fixing their overbite.

How they work: Same process as metal braces, but with a more aesthetic design.
Pros: Less noticeable, effective for most cases.
Cons: More expensive than metal braces, brackets can stain if not maintained.

Lingual braces

For those who want complete discretion, lingual braces are attached behind your teeth, out of sight. While effective, they are not suitable for all cases, especially severe overbites.

How they work: The braces apply pressure from the back of your teeth.
Pros: Completely hidden.
Cons: More expensive, harder to clean, can cause tongue irritation.

Orthognathic surgery

For extreme cases, jaw surgery might be necessary. This involves repositioning the jaw to correct significant structural issues that orthodontic solutions like braces or clear aligners can't fix.

How it works: Surgery alters the bones to align the upper and lower jaws properly.
Pros: Can provide significant improvement in severe cases.
Cons: Invasive, requires recovery time, and is generally more expensive.

Get smile ready with Caspersmile clear aligners

Caspersmile's clear aligners are the ideal blend of comfort, discretion, and effectiveness. Made from high-quality, BPA-free medical-grade plastic, these aligners are tailored for a smooth fit and minimal irritation.

How it works

Start with a simple at-home impression kit or a digital scan at one of our partner clinics.
Our orthodontists will create a treatment plan designed just for you.
Receive your aligners and start the smile transformation with virtually invisible, comfortable, and removable aligners.
Use our aligner tracker app to monitor your treatment every step of the way.

With Caspersmile, teeth alignment has become easy and quick. Smile confidently in no time, without the high price tag.

Treating buck teeth

Initiating buck teeth treatment is an investment in your dental health and confidence to smile broadly. Knowing the history, identifying the risks, and discovering the various orthodontic treatment options in the UK and around the world makes for informed decision-making. Regardless of whether you go with the tried-and-true efficacy of braces for buck teeth or more modern solutions like clear aligners for overbite, your journey to addressing your overbite should be a transformative experience.

Don't let your smile's uniqueness deter you. With advancements in orthodontic solutions in the UK, a straighter, healthier, and more confident smile is within your reach; take that first step, explore your options, and get ready to unlock your beautiful smile!

Ready for that confident smile?

Take the first step towards smile correction in the UK with Caspersmile and start your treatment today!

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FAQs

What causes buck teeth? +

Buck teeth can be caused by genetics, thumb sucking, prolonged pacifier use, or tongue thrusting during childhood.

Are buck teeth hereditary? +

Yes, buck teeth can be passed down genetically through jaw shape or tooth alignment.

How long does treatment for buck teeth take? +

Treatment usually takes 3-5 months with clear aligners.

What is the difference between braces and clear aligners for overbite correction? +

Braces use metal brackets and wires, while clear aligners are removable, nearly invisible trays that gradually move teeth.

Is treatment for buck teeth covered by insurance in the UK?+

The NHS may cover treatment for severe cases in children, but adults usually need private care.

Can adults still fix buck teeth effectively? +

Yes, adults can successfully correct buck teeth with braces, aligners, or other dental treatments.

How much does treatment typically cost in the UK? +

The cost of the treatment depends on the method you choose. With Caspersmile, you can start your treatment from just £599.

Citations

Santos-Longhurst, A. (2019c, March 21). What causes buck teeth (Overbite), and how do I treat them safely? Healthline.

https://www.healthline.com/health/buck-teeth#treatment'

Sissons, B. (2022, March 25). What to know about buck teeth.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/buck-teeth

Understanding buck teeth: Causes and treatment options