Overjet: protruding front teeth

What causes an overjet?

Several things can lead to a large overjet, including:

• Genetics and uneven jaw growth
• Thumb sucking or pacifier use that goes on for a long time
• Tongue thrusting or mouth breathing
• Losing baby teeth early
• Adult teeth that come in late or out of position

An overjet often starts in early childhood and can get worse as the jaw keeps growing if it isn’t treated.

How do I know if my child has an overjet?

Common signs include:

• Upper front teeth that visibly stick out in front of the lower teeth
• Trouble closing the lips over the front teeth
• Speech issues like a lisp
• A higher chance of injuring the front teeth, especially during sports
• Mouth breathing or jaw strain

Some children are also teased or feel self-conscious about how their teeth look.

Why might an overjet need treatment?

Beyond how it looks, an overjet that isn’t treated can lead to:

• Problems with the bite and with chewing
• Extra wear on the back teeth
• A higher risk of dental injuries
• Jaw joint pain or TMJ symptoms
• Trouble closing the lips or keeping them together at rest

For many kids, correcting an overjet makes a noticeable difference in oral health, comfort, and confidence.

How is an overjet treated?

Treatment depends on your child’s age and how large the overjet is. Options may include:

• Braces with elastics to bring the teeth and jaws into line
• Appliances that guide jaw growth, like headgear or functional appliances
• Clear aligners (like Invisalign®), when they suit the case
• Removing a tooth, in rare cases of severe crowding
• Jaw surgery, for an extreme skeletal overjet in someone who has stopped growing

Early treatment can often reduce or remove the need for more involved treatment later.

When should my child see an orthodontist?

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

At Families First, we offer free consultations that include imaging and treatment recommendations made for your child. Our orthodontic team will help you understand your child’s bite and make a plan to bring it into balance.

Other signs a child may need braces: Crowded teeth, Deep overbite, Missing lateral incisors, Open bite, Spacing of teeth, Underbite.