You’ve gone through months, or even years, of wearing braces. You’ve followed all the rules, and finally, the day comes when they’re taken off, revealing a perfectly straight smile. But what happens if, down the line, you notice your overbite returning? It’s a frustrating experience, but it’s more common than you might think.

An overbite is when your upper front teeth overlap your lower front teeth more than they should. While a slight overlap is normal, an excessive one can lead to dental issues. If you’ve noticed your overbite making a comeback after having braces, you’re likely wondering what can be done.

This guide will walk you through why this happens and how you can fix an overbite after braces.

Key Takeaways

Overbite relapse is possible: Even after successful orthodontic treatment, an overbite can return due to genetics, inconsistent retainer use, or natural teeth movement.
Several treatment options exist: Depending on the severity of the relapse, solutions range from retainers and clear aligners to another round of braces or even surgery.
Prevention is crucial: Wearing your retainer as prescribed is the most effective way to prevent your overbite from returning.
Professional guidance is key: Consulting with an experienced orthodontist is the first step to addressing any changes in your bite and finding the right solution.

Understanding What an Overbite Is

An overbite, medically known as a Class II malocclusion, describes the vertical overlap of the upper front teeth over the lower front teeth. A small amount of overlap—typically around 1 to 2 millimeters—is considered normal and even necessary for proper chewing function.

However, when this overlap is excessive, it can cause a range of problems, including:

Jaw pain and discomfort
Difficulty chewing or speaking clearly
Increased wear and tear on your front teeth
Gum irritation or injury

Orthodontic treatments like braces are designed to correct these alignment issues, moving your teeth and jaw into a healthier, more functional position.

Why Does an Overbite Return After Braces?

Seeing your perfected smile start to shift can be disheartening. Several factors can contribute to an overbite returning after orthodontic treatment.

Inconsistent Retainer Use: This is the most common reason for orthodontic relapse. Your teeth are set in bone, which is living tissue that is constantly remodeling. After braces are removed, teeth have a natural tendency to move back toward their original positions. Retainers hold them in their new, corrected alignment while the surrounding bone and ligaments stabilize. Not wearing your retainer as directed by your orthodontist gives your teeth the freedom to shift.
Genetics and Natural Growth: Sometimes, your genetics are a powerful force. The underlying jaw structure that caused the overbite in the first place may continue to influence your bite, especially in younger patients who are still growing. Natural age-related changes can also cause teeth to move over time.
Oral Habits: Persistent habits like thumb-sucking, tongue-thrusting (pushing the tongue against the front teeth when swallowing), or even nail-biting can exert enough pressure to move teeth and contribute to an overbite relapse.

How to Fix an Overbite After Braces

If you’ve noticed your overbite has come back, don’t worry—there are effective ways to correct it. The best treatment depends on how much your teeth have shifted.

1. Retainers

If the relapse is minor and caught early, a new or adjusted retainer might be all you need.

A custom retainer can gently guide teeth back into their correct alignment and, more importantly, prevent any further movement.

2. Clear Aligners

For mild to moderate relapse, clear aligners like Spark™ Clear Aligners are an excellent option.

These custom-made, virtually invisible trays fit over your teeth and gradually shift them back into place. They are removable, making them a convenient and discreet choice for adults and teens who don’t want to go back to traditional braces.

3. Braces (Again)

In cases of significant relapse, another round of orthodontic treatment with braces might be necessary. The good news is that treatment time is often shorter than the first time around.

Modern options like Damon™ Smile self-ligating braces are more comfortable and efficient than braces of the past, using gentle forces to move teeth.

4. Jaw Surgery

For severe overbites caused by skeletal discrepancies in the jaw, orthognathic (jaw) surgery may be recommended in combination with orthodontic treatment.

This is typically reserved for adults whose jaws have stopped growing and is the most invasive option.

Prevention Is the Best Medicine

The most effective way to deal with an overbite after braces is to prevent it from happening in the first place.

Wear Your Retainer Religiously: Follow your orthodontist’s instructions precisely. Initially, you’ll likely need to wear it full-time, then transition to nightly wear for life. It’s a lifelong commitment to maintaining your smile.
Attend Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular visits to your dentist and orthodontist allow them to monitor your teeth and catch any signs of shifting early on.
Address Harmful Habits: If you or your child has habits like tongue-thrusting or thumb-sucking, work with your orthodontist or a myofunctional therapist to correct them.

Trust the Experts at Magic Smiles Orthodontics

Experiencing an overbite relapse can be stressful, but the right orthodontic team can make all the difference. At Magic Smiles Orthodontics in Portland, Dr. Sara Edmondson and Dr. Charles Doleac have over 25 years of combined experience creating beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. As board-certified orthodontists, they are committed to providing the highest quality care in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

We use state-of-the-art treatments like Damon™ Smile braces and Spark™ Clear Aligners to deliver faster, more comfortable, and more precise results. Our team will work with you to understand the cause of your relapse and develop a personalized treatment plan to restore your perfect smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can my overbite come back years after braces?
A: Yes, an overbite can relapse at any time, even years after treatment, especially if you stop wearing your retainer. Natural aging and oral habits can also contribute to teeth shifting over time.

Q: How long will it take to fix an overbite after braces?
A: Treatment time depends on the severity of the relapse. Minor adjustments with a retainer may only take a few months, while more significant shifts requiring clear aligners or braces could take anywhere from 6 to 18 months.

Q: Is it normal for my bite to feel different after braces?
A: It’s normal for your bite to settle slightly after your braces are removed. However, if you notice a significant change or the return of your overbite, you should contact your orthodontist right away.

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

If you’re concerned about an overbite after braces, the first step is to schedule a consultation with an experienced orthodontist. The team at Magic Smiles Orthodontics is here to help you regain your confident, beautiful smile.

Check out our patient reviews on our Google My Business page to see why over 5,000 people have trusted us with their smiles. Then call us at (503) 255-1694 or visit us at 10850 NE Halsey St, Portland, OR 97220 to restore your smile!