Protruding front teeth is a common problem in children but can continue into adulthood. Commonly known as ‘buck teeth’, there is no need for treatment unless they are causing oral health issues. However, for cosmetic reasons you may want to have them corrected with, for example, Invisalign® clear aligners.
If you have concerns about your front teeth sticking out, it is advisable to see a specialist in teeth and jaw alignment (orthodontist). Dr. Chaw-Su Kyi, is a highly skilled orthodontist, offering a range of treatments for dental protrusion in West London to help straighten your smile.
Is There a Difference Between Buck Teeth and an Overbite?
Buck teeth and an overbite are often confused. In both cases, the upper teeth protrude over the bottom teeth. The term for buck teeth is overjet and the difference is that with an overbite the teeth remain straight, pointing downward; whereas with an overjet the teeth protrude at an angle,like Queen singer Freddie Mercury’s. Dr. Kyi is an expert in both overjet and overbite treatment in London.
What Are the Causes of Dental Protrusion?
There are several factors that may cause the front teeth to protrude, these include:
- Thumb sucking
While it is entirely natural for children to suck their thumb, if it continues when the permanent teeth begin to appear, beyond the age of 3 or 4, it can cause them to erupt at an angle.
Typically, the teeth can correct themselves and there is no permanent damage if thumb sucking stops before the age of 7. Beyond that, the adult teeth can be permanently affected, and it is more likely that orthodontic treatment will be required at a later date to correct the tooth position. - Dummies, pacifiers and soothers
Although sucking on a dummy can have the same effect as thumb sucking on the teeth, dummies seem to cause fewer problems as the habit is often stopped before the age of 7. - Tongue thrusting
This is another condition common in children when the tongue presses against the teeth. It may be caused by several factors, including swollen tonsils. - Genetics
Hereditary factors may be a cause of protruding teeth and you may find your family members have a similar appearance. - Overcrowding, extra, missing and impacted teeth
Any of these issues can contribute to the misalignment of your teeth, causing the appearance of buck teeth.
How to Correct Protruding Teeth?
Buck teeth are typically corrected with orthodontic treatments. These consist of traditional braces affixed permanently to the teeth, followed by retainers, which are removable.
While braces are common for children, adults may prefer a treatment that is less conspicuous. Invisalign for protrusion in London is a suitable alternative to braces and are virtually invisible. The treatment consists of wearing a series of clear aligners that fit over the teeth (like a mouthguard, but thinner) to gradually straighten and move the teeth to their ideal position. Treatment typically takes between 12-18 months.
Can correcting protrusion reduce dental trauma risks?
Protruding teeth are more prone to damage during falls or sports injuries. Orthodontic treatment, like braces or aligners, brings these teeth into proper alignment, reducing exposure to trauma, improving protection, and preventing fractures or dislodgement. Discussing your activity level with your orthodontist ensures proper care during treatment, such as using mouthguards. Addressing protrusion early, especially in children, minimizes lifelong risks and improves both function and aesthetics, offering peace of mind for active individuals.
Do protruding teeth affect eating or digestion?
Yes, protrusion can affect how effectively teeth bite and chew food, leading to improper breakdown before swallowing, increasing the workload on the digestive system, and potentially causing issues like indigestion. Orthodontic correction helps align teeth to create a functional bite, improving chewing efficiency and overall digestion. Patients often notice easier eating habits and reduced strain on their jaws after treatment. For personalized advice, consult your orthodontist to determine how treatment can improve your eating experience.
Can protrusion cause gum health issues?
Protruding teeth may push against soft tissues, causing irritation or receding gums, making it hard to clean around these teeth and increasing the risk of plaque buildup and gum disease. Correcting the alignment with orthodontic treatment improves oral hygiene access and protects gum health. Regular dental check-ups during and after treatment help monitor gum health and ensure optimal outcomes. Your orthodontist and dentist can provide tips for maintaining healthy gums throughout treatment.
Are retainers needed after protrusion correction?
Yes, retainers are essential to maintaining your results. Teeth naturally shift over time; without retention, they may revert to their previous position. Depending on your treatment, your orthodontist may recommend fixed or removable retainers. Consistent use of retainers prevents relapse, protecting your investment in orthodontic care. The guidelines for wearing retainers differ from patient to patient. Following your orthodontist’s instructions regarding how often you should wear them is important. Regular retainer check-ups ensure they remain effective for long-term stability.
How does age impact protrusion treatment?
While younger patients often experience quicker results due to still-developing jaws, adults can successfully correct protrusion, too. Treating adults may take longer since their bones are fully mature, but modern orthodontic technologies allow effective adjustments at any age. Early intervention during childhood can guide jaw growth to prevent severe protrusion later. For adults, options like clear aligners and ceramic braces ensure discreet treatment. Discussing your age and treatment goals with an orthodontist provides a tailored plan.
Can orthodontics fix severe protrusion without surgery?
Mild to moderate protrusion cases can often be corrected with braces or aligners, but severe cases involving jaw misalignment might require orthognathic surgery. This procedure repositions the jaw for improved alignment. However, depending on the case, orthodontists sometimes use advanced appliances to minimize surgical needs. A thorough assessment of your bite and facial structure determines whether surgery is necessary. Collaboration between your orthodontist and surgeon ensures the best functional and aesthetic results for severe protrusion.
Is jaw growth guidance effective for protrusion in kids?
Yes, early orthodontic intervention, such as functional appliances, can guide jaw growth to correct or prevent protrusion in children. These devices gently encourage proper alignment by influencing the jaw’s development during growth spurts. Early treatment often reduces the severity of protrusion, sometimes eliminating the need for braces later. Orthodontists recommend evaluations by age 7 to identify potential issues and create a proactive treatment plan. Timely care maximizes results and supports healthier oral development.
Schedule An Appointment with an Award-Winning Orthodontist
Schedule an appointment with award-winning orthodontist Dr. Chaw-Su Kyi, who is a specialist in teeth alignment issues, such as dental protrusion, in West London. Awarded the 2020 Specialist Orthodontist of the Year by GHP magazine, Dr Kyi has a long-standing reputation for innovation and expertise with a commitment to finding the best solutions for creating beautiful, straight smiles.
