Buck Teeth (Overjet)

Overjet describes a type of malocclusion (tooth misalignment). It happens when your upper front teeth protrude, or stick out, further than they should. You may hear people refer to an overjet as “buck teeth.”

Most people’s upper front teeth protrude past their lower front teeth by about 2 millimeters. That’s what dentists consider normal. But if your teeth stick out more than 2 millimeters, that’s an overjet.

Appearance is a common concern among people with an overjet. Many worry that it negatively affects their smile. But an overjet can impact your oral health and function, too. When your teeth don’t fit together properly, it can cause chewing difficulties, jaw pain, headaches and other issues.

Braces can fix most overjet cases. But you might need other orthodontics or jaw surgery if you have a severe overjet (8 to 10 millimeters or more).

Overbite vs overjet: What’s the difference?

Many people say “overbite” when they really mean “overjet.” Both words refer to types of malocclusion, but they’re not the same. Overbite refers to vertical distance, while overjet refers to horizontal distance:

• Overbite: Your upper front teeth cover (overlap) your lower front teeth more than they ought to. Most people have a small overbite. An overlap of 2 to 4 millimeters is typical. But if your upper front teeth cover more than 30% (about 4 to 6 millimeters) of your lower front teeth, that’s an overbite.
• Overjet (buck teeth): Your upper front teeth tilt outward further than 2 millimeters past your lower front teeth.

Symptoms of buck teeth

Symptoms vary depending on whether your teeth stick out a little or a lot. With buck teeth, you might have:

• Trouble biting or chewing
• Difficulty closing your lips all the way
• Ulcers or sore spots on your tongue or inner cheeks from accidentally biting them
• Jaw, face or tooth pain
• Speech challenges (less common)

Overjet causes

Different factors can cause buck teeth, including:

• Genetics: You have a higher chance of having buck teeth if a biological parent or sibling has them, too.
• Tongue thrusting: This is when your tongue presses against the back of your upper front teeth when you swallow. It’s common in babies, but adults can develop the habit, too.
• Finger or thumb sucking: Many children suck their thumbs or fingers to soothe themselves. It’s a natural behavior. But after age 4, thumb or finger sucking can cause an overjet.
• Pacifier use: Prolonged pacifier use can lead to buck teeth just like thumb sucking can. If you’re concerned about your child’s pacifier use, talk to their pediatrician for suggestions.

Complications of this condition

Buck teeth (and all types of malocclusion) may cause health issues that worsen with age. Left untreated, this type of bad bite can lead to:

• Facial pain
• Jaw pain
• TMJ disorder
• Chronic headaches
• Tooth erosion

Sometimes, buck teeth make people feel self-conscious about how their teeth look. This is especially the case with kids, who may tease a child with an overjet by using the term “buck-toothed” as an insult. But an overjet — like other types of malocclusion — is just a difference in how your teeth align. It’s not “bad,” but it can lead to health issues.

Many people do fine with an overjet. Your dentist can advise you on whether your or your child needs treatment.

How doctors diagnose overjet

A dentist can tell you if you have an overjet during a dental exam. They’ll measure the horizontal distance between your lower front teeth and upper front teeth. If your upper teeth stick out more than 2 millimeters, you might have buck teeth.

Your dentist may also need to take X-rays. Dental X-rays can give them important information about the health of your teeth and gums.

How do dentists fix an overjet?

Treatments for buck teeth include:

• Braces
• Clear braces
• Headgear
• Herbst appliance
• Palate expanders
• Oral surgery

Dentists and orthodontists consider many things when recommending treatment, like your age, how much of an overjet you have, and whether it interferes with oral health or chewing function. This helps them decide if you need treatment, and if so, what types.

How to fix overjet without braces

You can’t fix buck teeth without orthodontics or surgery. But if appearance is your main concern, these cosmetic dentistry treatments may camouflage the issue:

• Dental bonding
• Veneers
• Dental crowns

It’s important to know that these procedures don’t correct the underlying condition. So, if an overjet interferes with oral health or function, you might need braces or surgery to get rid of buck teeth.

When should I see my healthcare provider?

Tell your dentist if you have new symptoms like a toothache, facial pain or pain when chewing. You should also see your dentist for routine cleanings and exams. Preventive dental visits can reduce your risk for health issues related to an overjet.

Do buck teeth go away?

Orthodontic treatment is the only way to fix buck teeth. An overjet won’t go away on its own.