How to Fix an Overbite: Treatment Options for Children, Teens and Adults

Have you been told you have an overbite, or noticed that your front teeth stick out more than you’d like?

You’re certainly not alone. An increased overjet (the orthodontic term for front teeth that protrude forward) is one of the most common reasons people visit an orthodontist.

At Apex Orthodontics, we help children, teenagers and adults across the Gold Coast achieve healthy, confident smiles with personalised orthodontic treatment. Whether you’re considering braces, Invisalign®, or simply want to know if treatment is necessary, here’s everything you need to know.

What is an overbite?

Many people use the word overbite to describe upper front teeth that stick out. While orthodontists distinguish between an overbite (vertical overlap) and an overjet (horizontal overlap), “overbite” is the term most people search for and that’s perfectly okay.

An increased overjet means the upper front teeth sit further forward than normal in relation to the lower front teeth.

Some overbites are mild and don’t require treatment. Others can affect dental health, function and appearance.

What causes an overbite?

There isn’t just one cause.

An overbite may develop because of:

• Genetics and jaw growth
• Thumb or dummy sucking that continues beyond the toddler years
• Tongue habits
• Crowding of the teeth
• Missing or poorly positioned teeth
• Differences in the size or position of the upper and lower jaws

During your consultation, we’ll determine exactly what’s contributing to your bite before recommending treatment.

Can an overbite cause problems?

Sometimes, yes.

A significant overbite can:

• Increase the risk of damaging the front teeth during sport or falls
• Make biting into foods more difficult
• Lead to uneven tooth wear
• Affect speech in some cases
• Make cleaning certain areas more challenging
• Impact confidence when smiling

Many people also simply wish to improve the appearance of their smile, which is an equally valid reason to explore orthodontic treatment.

How do orthodontists fix an overbite?

Treatment depends on your age, growth, the severity of the bite and your goals.

Braces

Braces remain one of the most effective ways to correct an overbite. Modern braces allow very precise tooth movement and excellent control of the bite.

Invisalign®

Many overbite cases can be successfully treated with Invisalign clear aligners.

For suitable patients, Invisalign offers a discreet treatment option while still delivering predictable results.

Growth modification

Children who are still growing may benefit from appliances designed to guide jaw development.

These treatments are only effective during certain stages of growth, making early assessment worthwhile.

Tooth extractions

Some patients have significant crowding that cannot be corrected by moving teeth alone.

If extractions are recommended, it’s because they provide the healthiest, most stable result, not because they’re routine. At Apex Orthodontics, we always explain every available option before making a recommendation.

When should my child see an orthodontist?

The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends children have an orthodontic assessment around age seven.

This doesn’t mean treatment will necessarily begin at that age.

Often, we’ll simply monitor growth until the timing is ideal. However, some bite problems benefit from earlier intervention, so it’s helpful to identify them sooner rather than later.

Can adults fix an overbite?

Absolutely.

Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for children.

Many adults choose braces or Invisalign to improve both the appearance and function of their smile. Age is rarely a barrier to successful treatment.

Why choose Apex Orthodontics?

We believe orthodontic treatment should feel personal, honest and collaborative.

Our team takes the time to understand your concerns, explain your options clearly and create a treatment plan tailored to your individual smile.

Using modern digital technology and evidence-based treatment planning, we focus on achieving healthy, stable results that last.

Book an Overbite Consultation

If you’ve been searching for an orthodontist on the Gold Coast to help treat an overbite, we’d love to meet you.

Whether you’re concerned about your child’s protruding front teeth or are considering treatment for yourself, we can assess your bite, answer your questions and recommend the option that’s right for you.

Every smile is unique and every treatment plan should be too.