Will braces fix an overbite? Your Gold Coast guide

At Wilkinson Orthodontics, our Specialist Orthodontists assess your bite in detail and explain clear options, from metal or clear braces to Invisalign® clear aligners and other appliances when required.

TL;DR: Yes, braces often fix overbites. Mild to moderate cases can also be treated with clear aligners after Specialist assessment. Typical treatment runs 12 to 24 months, but varies with complexity and consistency. Book a $100 specialist orthodontic consultation, with diagnostic records included and X-rays bulk-billed where possible.

What an overbite is and why it matters

An overbite describes how far the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth vertically when you bite together. A small overlap is normal. Problems arise when the overlap is deep or when the upper teeth sit far ahead of the lowers. You might hear different terms in conversation, like deep bite or Class II malocclusion, but the idea is similar - the front teeth do not meet in a balanced way.

Why it matters:

• Excessive wear and chipping of front teeth
• Gum irritation behind the upper front teeth or in front of the lowers
• Jaw discomfort and difficulty cleaning crowded areas
• A smile that does not feel aligned with your face

A Specialist Orthodontist can measure your bite precisely during a clinical exam and on radiographs, then recommend the most predictable pathway to correction.

How braces fix an overbite

Braces work by placing gentle, planned forces on teeth to move them into better positions. To correct an overbite, your Specialist Orthodontist typically sequences tooth movement in phases. First, they align and level the arches. Next, they coordinate how upper and lower teeth meet, using archwires and elastics. In some cases, they may reduce dental protrusion or create space for movement using interproximal reduction or by closing extraction spaces if appropriate for your facial profile.

For many patients, braces provide strong control over the bite because brackets and archwires guide teeth in all directions. Elastics worn between upper and lower teeth often help set the bite relationship. Where appropriate, LightForce™ 3D-printed brackets can be designed for a personalised fit based on your scans, which supports precise planning and efficient adjustments. Suitability is always confirmed after your specialist assessment.

Braces correct overbites by:

• Aligning teeth so the arches are smooth
• Coordinating upper and lower teeth with elastics
• Adjusting tooth inclination to balance overlap
• Fine-tuning bite contacts at the end for long-term stability

When aligners or other appliances are used

Clear aligners can treat many overbites, especially mild to moderate cases. With Invisalign®, your Specialist Orthodontist plans a series of custom trays that gradually move teeth. Small tooth-coloured attachments may be placed to help the aligners grip and guide movement. Elastics can also be combined with aligners to correct the bite.

Aligners may be preferred if you want a removable option, are confident with wear time, and your case is suitable for aligner mechanics. In growing patients or in certain adult cases, additional appliances can be used to guide jaw relationships or address specific movements. Your clinician will outline whether options like functional appliances or auxiliary elastics are appropriate.

Explore aligner suitability and lifestyle tips on our Invisalign® page, then compare that advice with the benefits of braces discussed above. The most important factor is choosing the method that offers you the best predictability based on your specific diagnosis.

Treatment timeframes and predictability

The time it takes to correct an overbite varies. Many overbite cases treated with braces finish in about 18 to 24 months. Some mild cases wrap up closer to 12 months, while complex cases can extend beyond two years. Aligner timelines are often similar, provided wear time is consistent.

What affects timing:

• Complexity of the bite and any crowding
• Growth status in younger patients
• Appliance type and how often elastics are worn
• Oral hygiene and routine appointment attendance

Predictability improves when the plan is tailored to your bite, supported by high-quality scans and X-rays, and followed consistently. Your consultation includes an outline of likely timelines based on your records, plus an itemised quote and payment options.

What happens at a $100 Specialist Orthodontic consultation

Your first visit is designed to give you clear answers without guesswork. It includes:

• A friendly chat about your goals and concerns
• Diagnostic records, including digital scans and photographs, and X-rays where needed, bulk-billed where possible
• A bite and jaw assessment by a Specialist Orthodontist
• A tailored treatment plan with appliance options, estimated timeframe and a transparent quote
• Discussion of flexible payment plans, including $0 deposit and interest-free instalments, plus a discount if you prefer to pay upfront

You leave with a practical roadmap that explains how we would correct your overbite and what your appointments will look like. If you are ready to start, we can plan your fitting date at Helensvale or Benowa.

Who is a good candidate for braces or aligners

Most teens and adults with an overbite can consider braces. Clear aligners can also be an excellent choice for motivated wearers. You are likely a good candidate if:

• Your gums and teeth are healthy
• You can attend regular appointments
• You are prepared to care for your appliance and follow instructions
• You can wear elastics as directed to correct the bite

For contact or school sport, our team can fit a custom mouthguard over braces or aligners to help protect your smile. If you are active, ask about timing your mouthguard fitting once brackets are placed or when your aligners are underway.

What to expect during braces or aligner treatment

Expect a settling-in period after each adjustment or aligner change. Mild soreness is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief, warm salty rinses and orthodontic wax for any rubbing. With braces, you will need to avoid very hard or sticky foods. With aligners, plan to wear trays 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them for meals and cleaning.

Your check-in visits allow your Specialist Orthodontist to guide tooth movement, review hygiene and keep your plan on track. Appointments can be scheduled around school, exams and work commitments as best as possible, noting that peak times can fill early.

Pricing, payment plans and private health

Consultations are $100 and include diagnostic records, with X-rays bulk-billed where possible. At your visit, you will receive an itemised quote with no hidden fees. Flexible payment plans are available, including $0 deposit and interest-free instalments, plus a discount for upfront payment. If you have private health extras, we can swipe your card on the day to help reduce out-of-pocket costs where applicable.

For more detail on fees and finance, see our cost and payment plan information, or ask our team at your consultation.

FAQs: Overbite correction on the Gold Coast

Will braces fix an overbite?

Often, yes. Braces provide strong control to align teeth and coordinate the bite. Your Specialist Orthodontist will confirm the best approach after assessment.

How long does overbite correction take with braces?

Many cases complete in 18 to 24 months. Mild issues can be faster, and complex cases may take longer. Timelines depend on diagnosis and consistency with elastics and hygiene.

Are braces or clear aligners better for overbites?

It depends on your bite and goals. Braces can offer very precise control. Clear aligners can also correct many overbites, especially mild to moderate cases, when worn as prescribed.

What happens at an overbite consultation on the Gold Coast?

You will have scans, photos and X-rays where needed, then a Specialist Orthodontist will explain your diagnosis, options, expected timeframe, a transparent quote and payment plans.

Next steps: book at Helensvale or Benowa

If you are searching for braces on the Gold Coast and want a predictable plan, we would love to help. Book your consultation at our Helensvale or Benowa clinic. You will receive personalised advice, a clear timeline and flexible payment options, with X-rays bulk-billed where possible.

Your bite is unique. The sooner you have a tailored assessment, the sooner you can start moving toward a healthy, confident result.