Overjet: Protruding Front Teeth

What It Means When Front Teeth Stick Out — and How Orthodontics Can Help.

Overjet refers to the horizontal distance between the upper and lower front teeth. When the top teeth protrude significantly past the bottom teeth, it’s sometimes called “buck teeth” — though the clinical term is overjet.

While a slight overjet is normal, an excessive overjet can affect the bite, jaw alignment, and even self-esteem — especially in older kids and teens.

What Causes an Overjet?

Several factors can lead to excessive overjet, including:

Genetics and jaw growth imbalance
Thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use
Tongue thrusting or mouth breathing
Early loss of baby teeth
Delayed eruption or positioning of adult teeth

An overjet often develops early in childhood and can worsen if not addressed as the jaw continues to grow.

Signs of an Overjet

Common signs include:

Upper front teeth that visibly stick out in front of the lower teeth
Difficulty closing the lips over the front teeth
Speech issues like lisps
Increased risk of trauma to the front teeth (especially during sports)
Mouth breathing or jaw strain

Some children may also experience teasing or self-consciousness due to the appearance of their teeth.

Why Treatment May Be Recommended

Beyond cosmetic concerns, an untreated overjet can lead to:

Improper bite and chewing function
Excessive wear on back teeth
Increased risk of dental injuries
Jaw joint pain or TMJ symptoms
Difficulty with lip closure or resting posture

Correcting overjet can significantly improve oral health, comfort, and confidence.

How Is Overjet Treated?

Orthodontic treatment depends on age and the severity of the overjet. Options may include:

Braces with elastics to bring teeth and jaws into alignment
Growth-guided appliances like headgear or functional devices
Clear aligners (like Invisalign®) in appropriate cases
Tooth extraction (in rare cases of severe crowding)
Jaw surgery (for extreme skeletal overjet in non-growing patients)

Early treatment can often reduce or eliminate the need for complex interventions later.

When to Schedule a Consultation

If your child’s front teeth seem to stick out noticeably — or if they have trouble closing their lips, biting, or speaking — it may be time for an orthodontic consultation.

At Families First, we offer complimentary consultations that include imaging and personalized treatment recommendations. Our orthodontic team is here to help you understand your child’s bite and create a plan for a balanced, confident smile.

Claim Your Complimentary Consultation

Our orthodontic team is here to help with complimentary orthodontic consultations in Bluffdale, Riverton, Stansbury Park, and West Jordan. Complete the form below or call (801) 254-9700 to schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between an overjet and an overbite?

An overjet is when the top teeth stick out forward; an overbite is how far they vertically overlap the lower teeth. Some patients have both.

Can an overjet fix itself as my child grows?

Unlikely. Overjets usually persist or worsen without orthodontic intervention.

Are braces or aligners better for an overjet?

Both can be effective — it depends on the age of the patient, jaw development, and severity. An orthodontist can recommend the best option.

Is an overjet just a cosmetic issue?

No — overjets can affect speech, jaw comfort, and increase the risk of injury to the front teeth.

At what age should an overjet be treated?

Evaluation around age 7 is ideal. If treatment is needed, early intervention may prevent more complex issues later.