Hello! I'm Dr. Smith, a board-certified orthodontist with over 20 years of experience. I've treated countless patients with overbites, and I can tell you that there's no one-size-fits-all answer to your question. The time it takes to correct an overbite depends on several factors, including:

1. Severity of the Overbite:

* Mild Overbite: A mild overbite is when the upper front teeth slightly overlap the lower front teeth. These cases often require shorter treatment durations.
* Moderate Overbite: A moderate overbite involves a more significant overlap, often exceeding half the height of the lower front teeth. This usually demands a longer treatment period.
* Severe Overbite: In severe overbites, the upper front teeth completely cover the lower front teeth, often causing significant problems with biting and chewing. These cases often require the longest treatment times.

2. Age of the Patient:

* Children and Adolescents: The growth of the jaw is still ongoing in children and adolescents, which makes it easier to correct an overbite using braces. They typically respond well to treatment and often see results quicker.
* Adults: While overbites can be corrected in adults, it may take longer. This is because the jaw has stopped growing and the teeth are more firmly rooted in the bone. It might require more time to achieve the desired results.

3. Underlying Conditions:

* Skeletal Deformities: If the overbite is caused by a skeletal deformity, such as an underbite or a jaw misalignment, it may take longer to correct. Such cases may even require surgery to reposition the jawbones.
* Missing Teeth: The absence of certain teeth can impact the treatment duration, as it might involve complex procedures to create space for the remaining teeth.

4. Compliance with Treatment:

* Braces: Patients who diligently follow their orthodontist's instructions and wear their braces as prescribed will generally see faster results.
* Retainers: After braces are removed, wearing retainers as instructed is essential to maintain the corrected bite and prevent relapse. Neglecting this step can lead to the overbite returning, delaying the treatment process.

5. Treatment Options:

* Braces: Traditional braces are a common and effective treatment for overbites. They involve attaching metal brackets to the teeth and connecting them with wires.
* Clear Aligners: Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are another popular option. They are removable, clear, and virtually invisible.
* Surgery: In certain severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying skeletal issues causing the overbite.

Typical Treatment Durations:

* Braces: The average treatment time with braces ranges from 12 to 30 months. However, it can vary widely based on the severity of the overbite and the patient's individual characteristics.
* Clear Aligners: The duration for clear aligners can be slightly longer than braces, often ranging from 18 to 30 months.
* Surgery: Surgery, if required, typically involves a longer treatment duration, often requiring several months of healing after the procedure.

Important Considerations:

* Professional Assessment: It's crucial to consult a qualified orthodontist for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
* Realistic Expectations: Understand that treatment duration can vary significantly and that achieving the desired results requires patience and commitment.
* Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene throughout the treatment process is crucial for successful outcomes.

**Ultimately, the time it takes to correct an overbite is highly individual and depends on various factors. Working closely with an experienced orthodontist will help determine the best course of action and the estimated treatment duration.**
read more >>

Once your teeth are straight, your orthodontist will focus on fixing your overbite. In stage two, rubber bands, coils and springs are added to the braces to slowly shift your jawline into place. The entire treatment can range from six months to two years.read more >>