Causes of Protruding Teeth (Buck Teeth) in Children
Posted on August 9th, 2024 | Christopher Neal
Protruding teeth are a dental flaw that can put kids at an increased risk of dental trauma. This is because teeth that stick out are more vulnerable to injury.
Protruding front teeth are often called “buck teeth” and classify as an overbite. Overbites can cause speech impediments, tooth damage, breathing issues, difficulty chewing, and more. They’re usually treated with orthodontic therapies, such as Invisalign or traditional braces, but occasionally cases are severe enough that they require surgery.
Treatment options can vary depending on the reason for the overbite. Continue reading to learn about some common causes of protruding teeth.
What Causes Buck Teeth?
Genetics
A child’s jaw shape is something they inherit. Occasionally, the natural shape of the jaw will actually cause an overbite and lead to protruding teeth. Poor breathing habits can also inhibit proper jaw development, causing the same problem.
While genetics never change, avoiding certain behaviors that worsen the protrusion can help. Sometimes, orthodontics can also be an effective treatment for protruding teeth caused by jaw misalignment.
Number of Teeth
If a child has too many teeth in their mouth, this can cause overcrowding. Overcrowded teeth push against each other, thereby pushing some teeth past the lips. This is why overcrowding will often lead to the development of an overbite.
Missing teeth can also cause existing teeth to protrude. This is because tooth shifting is inevitable when there are gaps between baby teeth or permanent teeth. Various bite alignment issues can arise as a result, including an overbite.
Thumb Sucking & Pacifiers
Thumb sucking and using a pacifier are natural phases all children go through while growing up. However, kids who suck on their thumbs or a pacifier past the age of 3 or 4 can actually harm their bite development.
You may be wondering how thumb sucking and pacifiers can cause buck teeth. The pressure caused by finger sucking can force upper front teeth to stick out and erupt at an angle. This causes the teeth to push towards the opening of the mouth. Pacifiers used for too long also pose the same threat to children’s teeth.
Tongue Thrust
Tongue thrust is when the tongue pushes between the upper and lower teeth when a person swallows. This is a poor swallowing habit. Normally, when we swallow the tip of the tongue presses against the gum tissue behind the top teeth. Tongue thrust often leads to an open bite, but can also cause an overbite.
Abnormal Growths
While it isn’t common, abnormal growths can impact the positioning of teeth, leading to protrusion. If a cyst or tumor develops in the upper jaw, it may cause upper teeth to move forward and stick out.
Dental Care for Misaligned Bites
The best way to avoid an overbite is to protect teeth from a young age. If you’re searching for a dentist who can help your child stay on top of their oral health, contact Chicago kiDDS Pediatric Dentistry.
You can depend on us for personalized treatment plans and comprehensive dental care. We’re familiar with all different types of malocclusion and their causes. We provide a number of dental services designed to keep your child’s smile healthy and beautiful. Call us at (708) 448-6700 to schedule your visit and find out why we’re one of the best kids’ dentists in the area!
