Overjet
Conditions We Assess and Treat with Invisible Aligners
Overjet is a type of bite misalignment where the upper front teeth protrude forward, sitting significantly ahead of the lower front teeth. Unlike an overbite—which refers to vertical overlap—overjet describes the horizontal distance between the upper and lower teeth. When this distance is too large, it creates a forward-projecting appearance of the upper teeth, sometimes referred to as “buck teeth.”
At Pro Aligners, we use advanced clear aligner therapy to treat mild to moderate overjets with precision, comfort and discretion. Our expert-led planning ensures controlled tooth movement that not only improves appearance but also enhances function, bite balance and long-term oral health.
What Causes an Overjet?
Overjet can develop for a variety of genetic, developmental and lifestyle-related reasons.
Genetics
The size and shape of the jaw and teeth are inherited traits. If the upper jaw naturally sits further forward—or the lower jaw sits further back—an overjet is more likely to develop.
Thumb Sucking & Dummy Use
Prolonged thumb sucking, finger sucking or dummy/pacifier use can push the upper teeth forward, increasing the overjet.
Tongue Thrusting
A swallowing pattern where the tongue pushes against the front teeth can gradually move them forward.
Missing or Small Lower Teeth
If lower teeth are missing or undersized, the upper teeth may appear more prominent.
Lower Jaw Underdevelopment
If the lower jaw grows at a slower rate than the upper jaw, this can cause the upper teeth to protrude more significantly.
Natural Ageing & Tooth Movement
Even in adulthood, teeth can shift forward over time, making an existing overjet more pronounced.
Orthodontic Relapse
If retainers are not worn after braces, the teeth may drift forward again, recreating an overjet.
Common Symptoms
An overjet can affect both the appearance of the smile and the function of the bite. Patients often experience:
- Upper front teeth noticeably protruding
- Difficulty biting into foods
- Speech concerns such as slight lisping
- Increased risk of chips or fractures to front teeth
- Lip incompetence (difficulty closing lips fully)
- Shortened chin or recessed lower face appearance
- Gum irritation around front teeth
- Lower teeth biting into the roof of the mouth (severe cases)
- Reduced confidence in smile aesthetics
Even a mild overjet may benefit from professional assessment.
Why Treat an Overjet?
Treating an overjet provides significant functional, aesthetic and long-term health benefits.
Functional Benefits
- May improve bite and chewing efficiency
- May reduce the risk of trauma to prominent front teeth
- Can help improve alignment of upper and lower arches
- May improve speech clarity
Aesthetic & Health Benefits
- May create a more balanced facial profile
- May reduce the prominence of the upper teeth
- Can help create a more harmonious smile
- May reduce gum strain and enamel wear
- May enhance long-term bite stability
An overjet may change over time, so early assessment can be valuable.
Can Clear Aligners Treat an Overjet?
Yes. Clear aligners can be effective for mild to moderate overjets, especially when supervised by aligner-focused orthodontic clinicians. Clear aligners work by moving upper teeth backward, moving lower teeth forward (in certain cases), and correcting the angulation of front teeth.
Severe skeletal overjets may require additional orthodontic or surgical input, and we can advise you accordingly.
How Pro Aligners Treat Overjet
Our approach is precise, predictable and fully digital.
3D Digital Scan & Bite Evaluation
We begin with a high-definition scan to measure the exact horizontal distance between your upper and lower front teeth. This digital model allows us to plan every movement required to reduce the overjet.
Backward Movement of Upper Teeth
Aligners gradually guide the upper front teeth backward into a more natural, functional position.
Forward Movement of Lower Teeth
In some cases, the lower teeth can be gently advanced to meet the upper teeth more evenly.
Attachments for Complex Movements
Tooth-coloured attachments may be used to help control torque, root position and angulation—essential for overjet correction.
Correction of Related Issues
Our treatment aims to address contributing factors such as crowding, spacing, overbite, and rotations to help support a stable and balanced outcome.
Unlimited Refinements
Pro Aligners includes unlimited refinements, helping to optimise final tooth position and bite alignment.
Retainers for Long-Term Stability
At the end of treatment, two complimentary retainers are provided to help maintain your improved alignment and support long-term stability.
Who Is Suitable for Overjet Correction?
Most patients with mild to moderate overjet are suitable candidates for Pro Aligners. You may be suitable if:
- Your upper teeth sit noticeably forward
- Your lower jaw appears recessed
- Difficulty biting into foods is experienced
- You’ve had braces before and the overjet has returned
- You want a discreet alternative to metal braces
- You experience speech changes linked to protruding teeth
How Long Does Overjet Treatment Take?
Treatment time depends on the severity of the overjet and any related issues such as crowding. Most cases take:
8 to 18 months
Mild cases may complete sooner.
Why Choose Pro Aligners for Overjet Correction?
Expert-led treatment
Designed by aligner dentists
Virtually invisible
For complete discretion
Comfortable
Smooth and removable
Digitally planned
Tooth movement for accuracy
Complimentary Extras Included:
Start Your Smile Assessment Today
Correcting an overjet can improve your bite, facial profile and confidence. With Pro Aligners, you can achieve these results discreetly and comfortably, guided by specialist-led digital orthodontics.
Find out if Pro Aligners can correct your overjet.
Contact Us
We're here to help you achieve your perfect smile. Reach out to us today.
Call Us
020 3137 5212Email Us
info@proaligners.co.ukVisit Our Clinic
20 Old Brompton Road
South Kensington, London
SW7 3DL
- Monday9am - 6pm
- Tuesday9am - 8pm
- Wednesday9am - 6pm
- Thursday9am - 8pm
- Friday8am - 5pm
- Saturday10am - 4pm
- SundayClosed
How to find us
We are conveniently located in the heart of South Kensington, just a short walk from the station. Our clinic is easily accessible via public transport from all parts of London.
Nearest Tube Station
South Kensington (1 min walk)
Bus Routes
Stops nearby: 14, 49, 70, 74, 345, 360, 414, 430, C1
Parking
Pay & Display parking is available on Old Brompton Road. Nearest car park: Harrington Road Car Park (5 min walk).
Regulated & Registered
ProAligners is proudly part of Medical and Dental Ltd. registered with the UK's leading healthcare regulatory bodies, ensuring the highest standards of care, safety, and professionalism.
