How Do Braces Correct An Overbite Or Underbite? This is a common question among patients seeking long-term orthodontic solutions for bite misalignment that affects both appearance and oral function. For individuals exploring Braces in Dubai, understanding how orthodontic treatment works can help set realistic expectations, especially when care is delivered in a modern setting such as Dynamic Clinic in Dubai as part of an advertorial context.
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth, while an underbite is the opposite condition, where the lower teeth extend forward beyond the upper teeth. Both conditions can be caused by genetics, childhood habits, jaw growth issues, or tooth crowding. If left untreated, these bite problems may contribute to uneven tooth wear, jaw discomfort, speech difficulties, and challenges with chewing.
Braces work by applying consistent, gentle pressure to teeth and supporting structures over time. This pressure stimulates bone remodeling, allowing teeth to gradually shift into healthier positions. In cases of overbite or underbite, orthodontic appliances are designed to influence not only tooth alignment but also the relationship between the upper and lower jaws when needed.
Key components involved in this process include:
Brackets attached to individual teeth
Archwires that guide tooth movement
Elastics or auxiliary appliances that correct jaw positioning
When treating an overbite, braces focus on reducing the vertical or horizontal overlap of the front teeth. The orthodontic plan may involve moving upper teeth backward, lower teeth forward, or a combination of both. In growing patients, braces can also guide jaw development to improve bite balance.
Common orthodontic strategies include:
Intrusion of upper front teeth to reduce excessive overlap
Use of elastics to encourage proper jaw alignment
Space management to relieve crowding that worsens overbite appearance
Underbite correction often requires a more customized approach, as it may involve jaw positioning in addition to tooth alignment. Braces can help reposition teeth so they meet correctly, improving both bite function and facial harmony. In younger patients, orthodontic treatment can guide jaw growth, while in adults, braces focus on dental compensation.
Treatment approaches may involve:
Moving lower teeth backward and upper teeth forward
Crossbite correction to improve side-to-side alignment
Gradual adjustment of bite contact points for stability
Successful correction of an overbite or underbite depends on consistent adjustments and careful monitoring throughout treatment. Orthodontic progress is evaluated regularly to ensure teeth are moving as planned and the bite is improving without causing strain on the jaw joints. Compliance with elastic wear or appliance use plays a significant role in achieving predictable outcomes.
While many patients seek braces for cosmetic reasons, correcting bite issues offers functional and long-term oral health benefits. Proper alignment can improve chewing efficiency, reduce stress on jaw muscles, and make oral hygiene easier by minimizing hard-to-clean areas where plaque can accumulate.
Additional benefits include:
Better speech clarity in some cases
Reduced risk of tooth chipping or uneven wear
Improved overall bite stability
Braces are a proven orthodontic solution for correcting both overbites and underbites by gradually guiding teeth and, when possible, jaw alignment into healthier positions. For patients considering Braces in Dubai, understanding the mechanics behind treatment helps build confidence in the process and highlights the importance of early assessment, consistent care, and a personalized orthodontic approach.