What Are Protruding Teeth?
Protruding teeth are upper front teeth that sit further forward than they should. Some people refer to this as “buck teeth”, although orthodontists use the term protruding teeth or may diagnose an increased overjet, depending on the underlying cause.
A small amount of prominence is completely normal but when the upper front teeth project too far forward, they may affect the way the teeth bite together, increase the risk of injury to the front teeth and influence the appearance of the smile.
What Causes Protruding Teeth?
Protruding teeth can develop for several reasons. Genetics is one of the most common causes, influencing the way the teeth and jaws grow.
Other contributing factors may include:
- Differences in jaw development
- The position of the upper front teeth
- Prolonged thumb sucking or dummy use during childhood
- Tongue habits that influence tooth position
How Can Protruding Teeth Affect Your Oral Health?
Increased Risk of Injury
Because the upper front teeth sit further forward, they’re generally more exposed and may be more vulnerable to accidental knocks or sporting injuries.
Biting and Chewing
Depending on the severity, protruding teeth can affect the way the front teeth come together when biting into food.
Lip Closure
Some people with more prominent front teeth may find it difficult to comfortably close their lips without strain.
Smile Appearance
Protruding teeth can affect the balance of the smile and facial profile, which is one of the reasons some patients choose orthodontic treatment.
How Are Protruding Teeth Treated?
Treatment depends on what’s causing the protrusion. For many patients, braces can be used to gradually reposition the front teeth and improve the overall bite.
If jaw development is contributing to the problem, the recommended treatment may vary depending on your age and the severity of the bite. After assessing your teeth and jaws, Dr Nino will explain the treatment options that are most appropriate for your individual needs.
LightForce Clear Braces
A more discreet way to straighten your smile
Custom 3D-printed ceramic brackets designed to blend naturally with your teeth, offering the precision of braces with a less noticeable appearance.
LightForce Metal Braces
Precision made for your smile
Custom 3D-printed metal brackets individually designed for your teeth, offering a precise, comfortable and efficient treatment experience.
When Should Protruding Teeth Be Assessed?
If you or your child have front teeth that appear noticeably prominent, it’s worth arranging an orthodontic assessment.
Early assessment allows Dr Nino to identify what’s causing the protrusion, monitor growth where appropriate and recommend the best timing for treatment if it’s needed. Adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment to improve both the appearance and function of protruding teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are protruding teeth the same as an overjet?
Not exactly. An overjet describes the horizontal distance between the upper and lower front teeth, while protruding teeth describes the appearance or position of the upper front teeth. Although the two conditions often occur together, they aren’t the same thing.
Can braces fix protruding teeth?
Yes. Braces can gradually reposition protruding front teeth and improve the way the upper and lower teeth fit together. The most appropriate treatment depends on what’s causing the protrusion.
How long does it take to fix protruding teeth?
The length of treatment depends on the severity of the protrusion and the chosen orthodontic method. Braces typically take between 12 to 24 months, while clear aligners may require a longer treatment time.
Are protruding teeth more likely to be damaged?
Yes. Because they extend further forward, protruding front teeth are generally more exposed and have a higher risk of injury during falls, sport or accidental knocks.
Do protruding teeth get worse with age?
Yes, in many cases, untreated protruding teeth can worsen over time. As the jaw continues to develop and daily wear affects the teeth, misalignment can become more noticeable and lead to additional dental issues such as uneven tooth wear and increased risk of trauma.
Can protruding teeth cause jaw pain?
Yes, significant protrusion can put added strain on the jaw, leading to discomfort, tension headaches, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Correcting the alignment can help relieve jaw strain and improve overall comfort.
