Overbite is one of the most common orthodontic problems affecting both children and adults. When the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth, the condition is classified as an overbite. It can range from mild to severe and often causes both aesthetic and functional issues. One of the most effective treatments for correcting overbites is the use of braces. But many patients ask: How long do braces stay on for overbite? The answer is not always simple, as several variables can influence treatment duration.
This article provides a comprehensive look at overbites, how braces correct them, and the factors that influence how long the braces must remain on. With a professional and evidence-based perspective, we’ll explore everything you need to know about overbite correction using braces.
Understanding Overbite and Its Causes
An overbite, also known as a deep bite, refers to the vertical overlap of the upper and lower front teeth. In a normal bite, the upper teeth slightly overlap the lower teeth by about 1 to 2 mm. In cases of overbite, this overlap is more pronounced and may exceed 4 mm, sometimes covering a large portion of the lower teeth entirely.
Types of Overbite
Skeletal Overbite: Caused by the improper alignment of the jawbones. It is often hereditary and involves a discrepancy in jaw size or position.
Dental Overbite: Resulting from the improper alignment of teeth rather than jaw structure.
Common Causes
- Genetics
- Prolonged thumb-sucking in childhood
- Tongue thrusting
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Missing lower teeth
- Improper oral habits
Regardless of the cause, untreated overbites can lead to various complications such as jaw pain, worn enamel, speech issues, and an increased risk of trauma to the upper front teeth.
How Braces Work to Fix Overbite
Braces are a proven orthodontic treatment used to align teeth, close gaps, and correct bite issues—including overbites. Traditional braces consist of metal or ceramic brackets that are bonded to the teeth and connected with an archwire. Over time, braces apply consistent pressure that gradually moves the teeth and sometimes the jaw into proper alignment.
Brackets: Attach to each tooth and act as anchors.
Archwires: Connect the brackets and apply pressure.
Elastics (rubber bands): Used in overbite cases to exert additional force that helps shift the jaw position.
Springs and other appliances: Occasionally used for severe cases.
In cases of overbite, treatment typically focuses on pulling the upper teeth back and/or moving the lower teeth forward. If the overbite is skeletal in nature, jaw alignment may also need to be addressed, sometimes with surgical intervention in adults.
Average Duration Braces Stay On for Overbite
So, how long do braces stay on for overbite? The average duration is between 18 months to 3 years. However, this range can vary depending on multiple factors including age, severity of the overbite, type of braces used, and patient compliance.
Mild Overbite
For mild cases of overbite, especially in children and teenagers whose jaws are still growing, braces may only need to stay on for 12 to 18 months.
Moderate Overbite
In moderate cases where dental repositioning is required but jaw surgery isn’t necessary, the treatment duration often falls between 18 to 24 months.
Severe Overbite
Severe overbites, especially those involving skeletal issues or cases in adults where growth has stopped, often require 24 to 36 months, and possibly longer if surgery is required.
Factors That Influence Treatment Duration
1. Age of the Patient
Children and Adolescents: Their jaws are still growing, making it easier to guide teeth and bones into the correct position. Treatment tends to be faster and more predictable.
Adults: Jaw growth has stopped, which can make correction more complex and lengthy. Some cases may require orthognathic (jaw) surgery.
2. Severity of the Overbite
A mild dental overbite can be corrected more quickly than a complex skeletal overbite. Severe overbites often involve more comprehensive orthodontic strategies.
3. Type of Braces Used
Traditional Metal Braces: Often considered the most effective for complex cases. Treatment time tends to be shorter.
Ceramic Braces: Work similarly to metal braces but may take slightly longer due to increased fragility.
Lingual Braces: Placed behind the teeth, they are less visible but may require more time due to limited control and difficulty in adjustments.
Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign): Suitable for mild to moderate overbites. While convenient, they may require a longer period in some cases, especially if compliance is low.
4. Use of Additional Appliances
In more complex cases, orthodontists may recommend additional devices such as:
- Herbst appliance
- Twin block
- Headgear
- Temporary anchorage devices (TADs)
These tools can reduce overall treatment time but may also extend it if not used correctly.
5. Compliance and Oral Hygiene
Patient behavior significantly impacts how long braces stay on. Missing appointments, not wearing elastics, and poor oral hygiene can delay progress.
Failing to wear rubber bands consistently can extend treatment by several months.
Breaking brackets or wires due to eating prohibited foods can delay treatment by weeks or even months.
What to Expect During Treatment
Initial Consultation and Planning
A thorough examination, including X-rays and digital scans, helps the orthodontist create a tailored treatment plan. They will estimate how long the braces need to stay on based on the type and severity of the overbite.
Active Treatment Phase
Braces are applied and adjusted periodically (every 4 to 8 weeks).
Elastic bands may be introduced within the first few months.
You may feel soreness for a few days after each adjustment.
Monitoring Progress
Regular visits are essential. These allow for timely adjustments and ensure the overbite is improving as expected.
Final Phase and Retainers
Once the braces come off, patients typically wear retainers to keep the teeth in their new position. This phase is crucial to prevent relapse.
Overbite Correction Timeline by Age Group
| Age Group | Mild Overbite | Moderate Overbite | Severe Overbite |
| Children (7-12) | 12–18 months | 18–24 months | 24–30 months |
| Teenagers (13–18) | 12–20 months | 18–26 months | 24–36 months |
| Adults (18+) | 14–24 months | 24–30 months | 30–36+ months (may include surgery) |
Is Surgery Ever Necessary?
In severe skeletal overbite cases, especially in adults, surgery may be the best option. Orthognathic surgery realigns the jawbones and is usually combined with braces.
Pre-Surgical Braces: 12–18 months
Surgery: 1–2 days in hospital, several weeks recovery
Post-Surgical Braces: 6–12 months
Overall, this means braces may stay on for up to 3 years or more in surgical cases.
Can Braces Fix Overbite Without Surgery?
Yes, especially in younger patients and in cases of dental overbite rather than skeletal. Strategic use of braces, elastics, and sometimes expanders can successfully correct the issue without invasive measures. Compliance and early intervention are key.
Post-Braces Care and Retention
Once the braces come off, your orthodontist will provide retainers. These are essential to prevent teeth from shifting back.
Types of Retainers
- Removable (Hawley or clear plastic)
- Fixed (bonded behind the teeth)
Wearing retainers as directed is non-negotiable if you want to maintain your results. Skipping this step could result in recurrence of the overbite, undoing months or years of work.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the duration braces stay on for overbite correction varies depending on the severity of the condition, age, type of braces, and patient cooperation. While 12 to 36 months is a common timeframe, your orthodontist will tailor the treatment to your unique case.
Early detection and treatment, particularly in children and teens, can make a significant difference in reducing treatment time and complexity. For adults, while the process may be longer and possibly involve surgery, modern orthodontics provides highly effective solutions.
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