Mar 19, 2026

Will Braces Fix My Overbite? Options, Timelines and Results

An overbite is common, treatable and nothing to feel worried about.

Whether you are a parent exploring options for your child, a teen comparing braces with aligners, or an adult ready to improve your bite, effective solutions are available.

In this guide we explain what an overbite is, how Specialist Orthodontists diagnose it and the treatments used to correct different severities. We also cover braces, clear aligners such as Invisalign^®, functional appliances, elastics and temporary anchorage devices, alongside timelines, lifestyle considerations and retention.

If you would like personalised advice, book a consultation with our Specialist Orthodontists. We will assess your bite, explain your options clearly and design a treatment plan suited to your goals and routine.

What is an overbite and how is it diagnosed?

An overbite describes how much the upper front teeth vertically overlap the lower front teeth.

A small overlap is normal. However, a deep overbite may cause issues such as:

• Lower teeth biting into the roof of the mouth
• Wear on the edges of teeth
• Gum irritation
• A smile that appears shorter

Some patients also have an overjet, where the upper teeth sit further forward than the lower teeth. These two conditions are often discussed together because they can occur at the same time.

Diagnosis begins with a clinical examination and precise measurements. At Zen Orthodontics we use:

• iTero 3D digital scanning
• Clinical photographs
• X-rays where appropriate

These records allow your Specialist Orthodontist to measure the bite accurately and design a safe and efficient treatment plan.

Can braces fix an overbite?

In most cases, yes. Braces are highly effective at correcting overbites.

They work by applying gentle and controlled forces that move teeth and guide how the upper and lower arches fit together.

For growing patients, additional appliances may help guide jaw development as well.

Mild to moderate overbites often respond well to braces or clear aligners. Severe cases may require additional support such as elastics, functional appliances or temporary anchorage devices.

Your Specialist Orthodontist selects the mechanics that provide predictable and stable results.

Treatment options explained

Fixed braces - metal or ceramic

Brackets and archwires gradually align teeth and level the bite. Elastics are commonly used alongside braces to guide how the upper and lower teeth meet. Ceramic braces offer a more discreet appearance by blending with the natural tooth colour.

Clear aligners such as Invisalign^®

Invisalign^® uses a series of removable aligners to move teeth gradually. Tooth-coloured attachments may be placed on certain teeth to help the aligners grip effectively. Elastics can also be used with aligners to assist bite correction.

Functional appliances

Used mainly in children and early teens, these appliances guide jaw growth and posture to improve the relationship between the upper and lower jaws.

Elastics

Small rubber bands attach between the upper and lower teeth to refine how the bite closes. Consistent wear is important for success.

Temporary anchorage devices (TADs)

Small titanium pins placed temporarily in the gum to provide a stable anchor point for precise tooth movements. These can be helpful for deep-bite intrusion or complex corrections.

Invisalign^® or fixed braces for an overbite?

Both options can successfully correct an overbite.

Invisalign^®

• Nearly invisible removable aligners
• Suitable for many mild to moderate cases
• Can treat some severe bites with elastics and careful planning
• Requires about 22 hours of wear per day

Fixed braces

• Highly versatile and suitable for all severities
• Particularly effective for complex bite mechanics
• Do not rely on patient wear time

At Zen Orthodontics we offer both options and can show digital simulations to help you compare approaches before starting treatment.

How long does treatment take?

Treatment timelines depend on age and case complexity.

Children in growth

• Early interceptive appliances or aligners: 6 to 12 months
• Comprehensive braces or aligners: often 12 to 18 months

Teenagers

• Most treatments finish within 12 to 18 months
• Severe cases may take longer depending on growth patterns

Adults

• Many adult cases complete within 12 to 18 months
• Complex bite corrections may extend beyond this timeframe

What treatment involves

Planning and start

Digital scans, photographs and X-rays are taken. We discuss your goals, treatment options, timelines and costs before beginning.

Active treatment

• Braces are adjusted approximately every 6 to 8 weeks
• Aligners are changed regularly as prescribed
• Dental Monitoring may be used to review progress remotely

Finishing and detailing

Elastics or TADs may refine the bite to achieve the final result.

Retention

Custom retainers maintain the new tooth position while bone and gum tissues stabilise.

Will I need extractions or jaw surgery?

Not every patient requires additional procedures.

Extractions

Occasionally recommended if there is significant crowding or if removing a tooth will create better balance between the teeth and lips.

Orthognathic (jaw) surgery

Reserved for severe skeletal discrepancies, typically in adults who have finished growing. This treatment is planned jointly with a maxillofacial surgeon.

Most patients achieve excellent outcomes without surgery.

Comfort, lifestyle and oral care tips

Discomfort

Mild tenderness may occur after fittings or adjustments. Saltwater rinses and over-the-counter pain relief, if suitable for you, usually help during the first 24 to 72 hours.

Eating

• With braces: choose softer foods initially and avoid hard or sticky items.
• With aligners: remove them for meals and hot drinks before brushing and reinserting.

Sport and activities

Custom sports mouthguards can protect braces during contact sports.

Oral hygiene

• Brush after meals
• Use interdental brushes around brackets
• Clean aligners daily and rinse with cool water

Costs, finance and access

Treatment fees depend on the complexity of your case and the treatment method chosen.

After your consultation we provide a clear written estimate and discuss flexible payment options.

If you are researching orthodontic fees in Northern Ireland, visit our costs overview page for general guidance on aligner and braces pricing.

For patients exploring public pathways, we also provide guidance on the HSE Cross Border Directive for eligible Republic of Ireland patients. Written estimates can support reimbursement claims, although final decisions rest with the HSE.

Retainers and keeping your results

Retention is essential after orthodontic treatment.

Teeth naturally drift without support, particularly after bite correction.

We often recommend a combination of:

Fixed retainers

A thin wire bonded behind the front teeth to maintain alignment.

Removable retainers

Custom trays worn nightly to maintain the result long term.

Care tips

• Clean around fixed retainers carefully
• Rinse removable retainers with cool water and brush gently
• Contact us promptly if a retainer feels tight or stops fitting

FAQs

Will braces fix my overbite?

In most cases yes. Braces, often combined with elastics, can correct mild to severe overbites.

Can Invisalign^® fix an overbite?

Yes. Many overbites can be treated using Invisalign^® with attachments and elastics when worn consistently.

How long does treatment take?

Most overbite treatments take 12 to 18 months, though timelines vary depending on age and complexity.

Will I need extractions or surgery?

Only if clinically necessary. Extractions may create space, and surgery is usually reserved for significant jaw discrepancies.

What age is best for correction?

Orthodontic assessment around age 7 helps identify the best timing for treatment. Teens and adults can also achieve excellent results.

What results can I expect?

Most patients achieve improved bite function, reduced tooth wear and a confident smile when retainers are worn as recommended.

Your next step

The fastest route to a confident outcome is an accurate diagnosis.

Book a consultation with our Specialist Orthodontists at Zen Orthodontics in Newry. Using digital scans and advanced planning, we will assess your bite, explain treatment options such as braces or Invisalign^®, outline timelines and costs, and create a plan suited to your lifestyle.