Buck Teeth: Causes, Symptoms, Risks and Treatments Options

Buck teeth also known as overbite is a dental alignment condition where the upper set of teeth protrudes beyond the lower ones. This condition causes problems in basic functions like biting and chewing and can also result in frequent tongue injuries and inner cheek bites. Many people continue to live with buck teeth mistaking it to be a minor alignment issue. However, depending on its severity, this malocclusion can cause issues like gum damage, breathing problems, and even speech impediments.

Causes of Buck Teeth

In some cases, buck teeth develop because of genetic issues. Genetic factors determine the shape of your jaw causing misalignment of teeth which later develop into overbite. Apart from genes some early childhood habits also cause overbites. These habits include:

• Thumb-sucking or similar nonnutritive-sucking habits
• Grinding of teeth
• Biting of nails
• Thrusting the tongue into the teeth
• Using a pacifier for prolonged periods
• Missing teeth that cause dental crowding in later stages

Buck Teeth Risks

Buck teeth can spiral into several serious health conditions if not treated on time. Apart from causing physical damage, buck teeth can also impact our mental health by causing severe self-esteem issues and hamper the confidence of the patients. Other risks associated with this dental condition include :

• Breathing disorder
• Chewing problems
• Damage to teeth and gums
• Alteration of facial structure
• Gum disease
• Temporomandibular disorders including jaw pain

Symptoms of Buck Teeth

One of the first symptoms of overbite or buck teeth is the changed facial structure. Apart from the appearance, overbite also causes difficulty in closing the mouth as the upper set of teeth are protruding beyond the appropriate position. This condition also causes severe jaw pain in the initial stages and causes speech challenges as well. In case of any of these symptoms, it is highly recommended to visit your dentist and seek medical help. A dental x-ray is usually the first step in determining the root cause of buck teeth. There are several modes of treatment available today that have proven their efficacy in treating all kinds of overbite dental conditions.  

Treatment for Buck Teeth

People suffering from buck teeth have several options to choose from depending on the severity of their condition. One of the most common treatment methods is metal braces. Metal braces have existed for decades and have resolved alignment issues for millions of people around the world. They push the teeth into the desired position by applying gentle pressure. One of the biggest downsides of braces though is that they come with several dietary restrictions and are not an aesthetically pleasing mode of treatment. 

The problem of aesthetics and comfort can be solved with invisible aligners. These aligners are trays made out of transparent plastic and sit on your teeth perfectly applying constant pressure to achieve alignment. Clear aligners are customizable and provide a pain-free solution for all your teeth alignment needs. 

Apart from these, buck teeth can also be treated with some palate expanders or dental modification devices that work towards repositioning the jaw. Teeth removal to prevent dental crowding is another method used to treat overbites. In case of severe buck teeth, patients also have an option of going for surgical intervention to achieve the smile of their dreams.