Fixing Buck Teeth: Your Guide to Treatment Options and a Healthier Smile

A noticeable overjet, where the upper front teeth extend significantly beyond the lower teeth. This clear view highlights how buck teeth can affect the alignment and overall appearance of the smile.

A clinical side profile image displaying a pronounced overjet. The upper front teeth extend forward past the lower teeth, highlighting the degree of dental protrusion from the side view.

When you hear the term buck teeth, you might picture a slightly exaggerated overbite where the upper front teeth noticeably protrude over the lower teeth. While it’s often associated with cartoons or jokes, the reality of having buck teeth can be much more serious, affecting both appearance and dental health. Fortunately, modern orthodontics offers highly effective solutions for patients with buck teeth — leading to healthier bites and more confident smiles.

What Are Buck Teeth?

Buck teeth, known medically as overjet, occur when the upper front teeth extend far beyond the lower teeth. While a slight overjet is normal, a more pronounced overjet can cause functional, cosmetic, and health concerns.

Common signs of buck teeth include:

• Front teeth that noticeably stick out

• Difficulty closing the lips naturally

• Trouble biting or chewing food properly

• Speech challenges, including lisps

• Increased risk of damage to protruding teeth

What Causes Buck Teeth?

Buck teeth can result from several factors, many of which are out of a person's control. Some of the most common causes include:

• Genetics: Jaw size and tooth placement are often inherited traits.

• Thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use: Habits in early childhood can push teeth forward as they develop.

• Tongue thrusting: When the tongue presses too far forward against the teeth during swallowing or speaking, it can cause teeth to shift.

• Mouth breathing: Chronic mouth breathing due to allergies or nasal issues can alter jaw growth and tooth alignment over time.

Identifying the cause is a critical first step in choosing the right treatment approach.

The Hidden Risks of Leaving Buck Teeth Untreated

While some may think buck teeth are purely a cosmetic issue, the reality is that they can have serious long-term effects on oral health and overall well-being. Untreated buck teeth can lead to:

• Increased risk of dental trauma: Protruding teeth are more vulnerable to chipping or injury, especially during sports or falls.

• Jaw pain and dysfunction: Misaligned teeth can strain the jaw joints, causing discomfort or even TMJ disorders.

• Speech difficulties: Misaligned teeth can interfere with proper speech development and pronunciation.

• Low self-esteem: Children, teens, and even adults with prominent buck teeth often report feeling self-conscious about their smiles.

Correcting the issue not only enhances the appearance of the smile but also protects oral and emotional health for years to come.

Orthodontic Solutions for Correcting Buck Teeth

Orthodontic treatment is often the best solution for addressing buck teeth, and early intervention can make a significant difference. Here’s how orthodontists approach it:

1. Braces

Traditional braces apply gentle, continuous pressure to reposition the teeth and correct the bite. Braces can be a highly effective option for moderate to severe overjet, and treatment plans are customized based on the patient’s age, dental development, and specific needs.

2. Invisalign® and Clear Aligners

For patients seeking a more discreet option, clear aligners like Invisalign can effectively treat mild to moderate cases of buck teeth. These removable trays gradually shift teeth into better alignment without the visibility of metal brackets.

3. Orthopedic Appliances

In younger children, orthodontists may recommend growth-modifying appliances like a Herbst appliance or headgear to guide jaw development. Early treatment can sometimes prevent the need for surgery later on.

4. Surgical Options

In extreme cases, especially in adults with skeletal discrepancies, orthognathic surgery combined with orthodontics may be necessary to reposition the jaws correctly.

5. Retention

Once treatment is complete, retainers are critical to maintain the new bite and prevent teeth from shifting back over time.

When Should You See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this stage, an orthodontist can detect early signs of buck teeth and determine if early intervention could prevent more severe problems later.

However, it's never too late! Many adults seek orthodontic treatment to correct buck teeth and enjoy healthy, confident smiles well into adulthood.

Final Thoughts

Buck teeth are more than just a cosmetic concern — they can impact speech, dental health, and self-esteem. The good news is that with today’s orthodontic treatments, correcting an overjet is more effective, comfortable, and accessible than ever. If you or your child are struggling with protruding front teeth, reaching out to an experienced orthodontist can be the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.

Ready to take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile?

Schedule a complimentary consultation with our experienced orthodontic team today! We'll create a personalized treatment plan to help you or your child achieve lasting results — because every smile deserves expert care.