What should I do if my deciduous teeth appear overbite?

In our clinic, we often encounter parents holding their children to consult about "underbite", but we find that many people have misunderstandings about "underbite": some parents think "don't worry about underbite of deciduous teeth, it will be fine after the teeth are replaced", and some parents think "it can only be corrected after all the teeth are replaced". In fact, "underbite" of deciduous teeth should be discovered and treated as early as possible, because it not only affects children's appearance and mental health, but may also cause functional disorders such as chewing and pronunciation, and even affect future growth and development.

What is "overbite"?

"Overbite" is medically known as anterior crossbite, which is manifested by the lower teeth covering the upper teeth, forming a "crescent face" or "concave face". Normal bite should be that the upper teeth cover about 1/3 of the lower teeth, but "overbite" will break this relationship, which may also be accompanied by unclear pronunciation or difficulty chewing.

Why do children have overbite?

1. Genetic factors: If parents or family members have a history of overbite, the probability of the child suffering from the disease increases.

2. Bad oral habits:

Biting the upper lip, sticking out the tongue, sucking fingers, etc. can lead to habitual mandibular protrusion movements.

Improper bottle-feeding posture: lying flat for a long time to drink milk, the lower jaw needs to be stretched forward to hold the nipple.

3. Abnormal jaw development:

Maxillary hypoplasia (eg, cleft lip and palate)

Overgrowth of the jaw bone (due to genetic or hormonal factors)

4. Respiratory disease factors: For example, enlarged tonsils lead to difficulty breathing, forcing the mandible to protrude forward to compensate.

The harm of "underbite" of deciduous teeth

If not intervened in time, underbite may cause:

1. Jaw developmental deformity: If there is no intervention in childhood, the growth of the maxillary bone will be inhibited and the mandibular bone will continue to protrude forward, and orthognathic surgery may be required in adulthood.

2. Dental health problems: Teeth wear and tear can cause premature loosening of teeth.

3. Functional abnormalities: decreased chewing efficiency, affecting digestion and absorption and thus affecting children's growth and development; and unclear pronunciation (especially labiodental sounds).

4. Psychological impact: Abnormal facial features may affect children’s self-confidence.

Key point: Many "underbites" during the period of primary teeth will not heal themselves as the teeth are replaced, but may instead get worse!

Treatment of overbite of deciduous teeth:

Seize the golden period!

Removable appliance

The golden treatment period for deciduous teeth is 3-5 years old. The bone development has not yet been finalized during the deciduous teeth period. The correction success rate is as high as over 90%, and the treatment method is simple and efficient. The earlier the age, the better, provided that the child can cooperate at this stage.

Parents must read:

How to prevent overbite?

1. Correct feeding posture: Avoid lying the baby flat to drink milk. Let the baby lean on the mother's arm at a 45° angle, and the bottle and the baby's head should also be at a 45° angle. After 1 year old, gradually stop feeding the baby with a bottle and use a straw cup or wide-mouth cup.

2. Pay attention to oral habits:

Correct behaviors such as lip biting, tongue sticking out, and finger sucking in a timely manner.

Avoid long-term use of pacifiers (it is recommended to stop before the age of 2).

3. Regular oral examinations: Conduct oral examinations every six months starting at the age of 3, and intervene as soon as possible if oral congestion is detected.

Common misconceptions and truths

❌ Myth 1: “Overbite of deciduous teeth will heal itself after replacement of new teeth”

✅ The truth: Overbite during the deciduous teeth period may inhibit maxillary development, and bone problems will become more serious after tooth replacement.

❌ Myth 2: “All teeth must be replaced before orthodontic treatment can begin.”

✅ The truth: Generally speaking, orthodontic correction requires waiting for all teeth to be replaced, but for deciduous teeth, there is no need to wait for replacement of teeth, and early intervention is required, otherwise it may affect jaw development, physical and mental health, etc.

Advice for Parents

1. Early detection and early treatment: If a child is found to have an underbite after the age of 3, please seek medical attention immediately. Correction during the deciduous teeth period is simple and effective.

2. Choose a professional institution: Go to a dental specialist hospital or regular medical institution to avoid secondary injuries caused by non-professional correction.

3. Psychological construction and daily care: Encourage children to cooperate with treatment, avoid inferiority complex due to appearance problems, and pay attention to daily oral hygiene maintenance.

Kind tips

Early intervention of "underbite" is not only about correcting teeth, but also laying the foundation for the child's lifelong maxillofacial health. If you find that your child has signs of overbite, please go to a regular hospital for treatment in time. Scientific treatment will give your child a confident smile!

Prevention is better than cure. Early detection and early intervention will keep your children away from the trouble of overbite!