How to Fix an Overbite: Braces, Aligners & Treatment Options | Zenyum SG
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How to Fix an Overbite: Braces, Aligners & Treatment Options | Zenyum SG

March 26, 2026

Celebrities with overbites

Before we dive into how braces can help fix an overbite, let’s talk about Freddie Mercury. The most famous example of an overbite is Freddie Mercury’s teeth. The famous rockstar had four extra teeth in the back of his mouth that pushed his front teeth forward. Freddie however, refused to fix his overbite because he believed it was what made his voice so unique.

While Freddie embraced his overbite as part of his identity, many people feel differently, and that is completely valid. For some, an overbite can lead to discomfort, affect confidence, or make them feel self-aware in photos or conversations. Whether it’s about how your smile looks or how your bite feels, wanting to make a change is nothing to be ashamed of. That’s where Zenyum clear aligners can help, giving you a solution that is subtle, effective, and made to fit your lifestyle.

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Read more: Overbite Explained: Causes, Symptoms and How to Fix It

Treatment options for overbite

An overbite can almost always be corrected. Trusted medical sources showed that the right treatment depends on how severe it is (mild vs. deep) and whether it’s caused by the teeth, jaw, or both.

1. Clear aligners (for dental overbite)

If the overbite is mild to moderate and mainly caused by overlapping teeth, clear aligners can gradually move them into a better position. Both children and adults can benefit from this approach.

Read more: Your All-in-one Guide to Zenyum Invisible Braces Costs

2. Traditional Braces (Best for Moderate to Severe Overbites)

  • Metal or ceramic brackets
  • Offer maximum control
  • Usually needed for Class 2 Overbites or complex malocclusions

Read more: A Complete Guide to the Price of Braces in Singapore

3. Growth guidance (for children)


For children who are still growing, orthodontists may use devices such as palate expanders, functional appliances (like Herbst or Twin-block), or headgear to guide jaw development. These treatments are most effective between ages 7–12, before the jaw bones fully harden.

4. Tooth extraction or reshaping

When there isn’t enough space in the mouth due to crowding or extra teeth, removing one or more teeth can help create room so the remaining teeth can align properly. In some cases, minor reshaping or bite adjustments are also done to improve how the teeth meet and to reduce irritation or uneven pressure.

5. Jaw surgery (for severe cases)

In more severe situations where the overbite is caused by the jaw structure, such as a protruding upper jaw or a smaller lower jaw, orthognathic surgery may be recommended. This is usually considered for adults with fully developed jaws and is typically combined with braces or aligners afterward to refine the final bite.

6. Retainers (to maintain results)

After completing treatment, retainers are used to keep the teeth in their new positions and prevent the overbite from returning. Ongoing check-ups also help ensure long-term stability and monitor overall oral health.

How long do braces take to fix an overbite?

The time it takes to fix an overbite depends on three key factors:

  • Severity of the overbite (mild, moderate, or severe)
  • Age of the patient (younger patients often respond faster)
  • Type of treatment (clear aligners, traditional braces, or surgery)

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

1. Clear aligners (e.g. ZenyumClear™, ZenyumClear™ Plus, Extra)

  • Mild Overbite: ~6–9 months
  • Moderate Overbite: ~9–15 months
  • Complex Moderate (Full Arch or Extractions): ~15–18 months

Ideal for: Adults with mild-to-moderate dental-based overbites
Benefits: Discreet, removable, minimal disruption to lifestyle

2. Traditional braces (metal or ceramic)

  • Mild Overbite: 12–18 months
  • Moderate to Severe Overbite: 18–30 months
  • With Jaw Growth Issues: May require longer tracking and elastic wear

Ideal for: Severe or complex overbites (especially with crowding or jaw shifts)
Benefits: More precise control of tooth and jaw movement

3. Surgical orthodontics (orthognathic surgery)

  • Pre-surgery Braces Phase: 6–12 months
  • Surgery & Recovery: 1–2 months
  • Post-surgery Braces Phase: 6–12 months
  • Total Time: 18–36 months


Ideal for: Skeletal overbites where jaw bones are misaligned
Benefits: Dramatic improvement in both function and facial aesthetics

Treatment Type Best For Estimated Time
Clear Aligners (ZenyumClear™) Mild overbites 6–9 months
Clear Aligners (ZenyumClear™ Plus) Moderate overbites 9–15 months
Clear Aligners (ZenyumClear™ Extra) Complex moderate cases 15–18 months
Traditional Braces Moderate to severe overbites 12–30 months
Orthognathic Surgery (with braces) Severe skeletal overbites 18–36 months

Why you shouldn’t procrastinate on treating your overbite

Treating your overbite can have serious benefits for your health. Delaying orthodontic treatment for your overbite could result in exacerbated health issues, such as:

  • Chewing food is harder because your teeth don't meet optimally. The extra effort put into chewing (or "masticating", if you're bougie like that) can also create additional tension in your jaw. Decidedly not fun.
  • You could be wearing down the back of your teeth while chewing, so your teeth become thinner and weaker. Bacteria can grow easily and there’s a risk it’ll become more painful or difficult to chew over time.
  • Buck teeth and overbites can lead to pain or clicking sounds when you move your jaws, which can be more than a little uncomfortable.
  • Speaking more with your tongue so you can’t speak as clearly or pronounce certain vowels. You might even develop a lisp!

Does an overbite affect your face shape?


Yes, especially moderate to severe overbites. They can:

  • Make your chin appear smaller or pushed back
  • Create a shorter, rounder lower face
  • Push lips outward, changing your resting facial expression

Feature Affected Impact of Overbite
Jawline Softer, less defined
Chin Appears recessed
Smile appearance Teeth look "tucked in"
Lip posture May not close naturally

Can an overbite get worse over time?


Yes. Without treatment, overbites can worsen due to:

  • Tooth grinding or wear
  • Jaw misalignment
  • Speech and chewing difficulties
  • Increased risk of tooth decay or gum disease

Can adults fix an overbite?


Yes, adults can absolutely fix an overbite, and adult overbite treatment is more common than you might think. Whether you're in your 20s, 40s, or even 60s, modern orthodontic solutions are effective, discreet, and tailored to adult lifestyles. Some adults have lived with an untreated overbite since childhood, while others develop or notice worsening symptoms over time due to factors like tooth wear, shifting teeth, jawbone changes with age, tooth loss, or long-term habits such as tongue thrusting, mouth breathing, or teeth grinding. While it’s true that children’s jaws are more adaptable, adults can still achieve excellent results with the right treatment approach! It may just take a bit more time. Contrary to popular belief, treatment doesn’t always take significantly longer for adults. Although adult jawbones are no longer growing, and tooth movement may be slightly slower (especially if dental restorations are involved), age is not a barrier to success. Many adults complete their treatment within 12 to 24 months and report that fixing their overbite was one of the best decisions they made for their long-term dental health and personal confidence.

Common adult concerns (and why you shouldn’t worry)

Concern Reassurance
"Am I too old?" You’re never too old to improve your bite or smile.
"Will it be obvious?" Invisible aligners and ceramic braces make treatment nearly unnoticeable.
"Will it affect my job or speaking?" Most people adjust within days. Many public-facing professionals wear aligners with no issue.
"Is it painful?" Mild discomfort is normal initially, but it fades quickly. Most adults describe it as manageable.

Invisible braces can fix your overbite

Zenyum’s invisible braces are designed to gently guide your teeth into better alignment, including improving overbites. In most cases, your dentist may use a technique called IPR (Interproximal Reduction) to create small amounts of space between teeth. With the help of precision attachments (called buttons) and elastics, your teeth are gradually shifted into their ideal positions. Treatment is discreet, comfortable, and designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. If you are curious whether we can help with your overbite, take our free smile check below. Whether you are starting your smile journey or just exploring options, remember: every smile is unique, and meant to be celebrated. Smile More!

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How to get started with Zenyum Aligners

Start your Smile Check

Answer a few questions, and take four teeth pictures. It only takes a few minutes!

Book an appointment

Receive a call from us to schedule your dentist appointment

Visit your dentist

You’ll have 3D scans and X-rays taken of your teeth by your dentist

Approve your plan

Give the green light for your Zenyum aligners to go into production after approved by your dentist.