MJ is our captain and lead clinician. She excels at facial aesthetics and adult braces
Do your top teeth stick out?
If your top teeth stick out or you’ve been told you have an overjet, don’t worry. This simply means your upper front teeth sit further forward than your lower ones. This is very common in adults and is something we assess regularly at Smileworks. Overjets are treated with braces, and our dentists and orthodontists help patients achieve balanced, natural-looking smiles every day.
Should I be worried about an overjet?
Overjets are usually straightforward to treat, but if left unmanaged they can be associated with certain aesthetic and clinical concerns. These are things your dentist will discuss with you during a consultation.
Aesthetic concerns (confidence and smiling)
People whose teeth stick out often feel self-conscious about their smile. Many avoid smiling in photos or feel uncomfortable relaxing their lips. Patients frequently describe braces treatment for an overjet as life-changing because these concerns often disappear once the teeth are brought into balance. Dr Eduardo says, “many patients say their teeth make them feel awkward. So they come in for an assessment and we help them.”
Clinical concerns (trauma, oral health, speech and chewing)
Patients with an overjet of more than 4mm are at a higher risk of dental trauma, as protruding front teeth are easier to knock or chip. In more pronounced cases, closing the lips comfortably can be difficult, which may lead to a dry mouth. Saliva plays an important role in protecting teeth and gums, so this can increase the risk of decay or gum problems over time.
In some patients, a larger overjet can affect speech. Sounds that rely on the front teeth and lips may be less clear, and a mild lisp can develop. This is common and entirely treatable with orthodontic care.
A pronounced overjet can also make biting and chewing less efficient because the front teeth do not meet as they should. This can place extra strain on the teeth and jaw and may lead to discomfort when eating.
Not all overjets require treatment. Whether braces are recommended depends on the size of the overjet, how your teeth meet, and whether it is affecting appearance, function, or long-term tooth health. All of this is discussed during a braces assessment, book yours here. And finally get an expert to tell you precisely what you need.
Overjet definition (the science part)
An overjet is the horizontal overlap of the teeth, meaning the top teeth protrude forward in relation to the bottom teeth. It is often confused with an overbite, which describes a vertical overlap. A simple way to remember the difference is that overjet refers to front-to-back, while overbite refers to up-and-down.
If you’ve been told you have an overbite rather than an overjet, you can read more in our overbite article. Overjets are measured in millimetres, so you may hear your dentist say something like, “you have an 8mm overjet”.
Between 2 and 4mm is considered within a normal range. Larger overjets can usually be treated with braces, but treatment is always based on the individual rather than a single measurement.
What causes an overjet?
An increased overjet can develop for a few different reasons and is often the result of a combination rather than a single cause. Most commonly, it relates to the position of the jaws. The upper jaw may sit further forward than average, or the lower jaw may sit slightly further back.
The number and position of the teeth can also play a role. Missing teeth, particularly in the lower jaw, or differences in the length of the dental arch can allow the upper teeth to move forwards over time.
In some cases, the angle of the upper front teeth contributes to the appearance of an overjet. Teeth that tilt forwards naturally can increase both the look and measurement of an overjet. This may be linked to childhood habits such as thumb sucking, or simply how the teeth developed.
How is an overjet treated?
In adults, an increased overjet is usually treated with braces to bring the teeth into a healthier, more balanced position. The approach depends on how pronounced the overjet is and whether there is crowding or spacing elsewhere in the mouth.
In some cases, creating space is part of achieving a stable result. This may involve removing specific teeth as part of orthodontic treatment. This is a well-established and routine approach when appropriate, and the aim is always a natural-looking, functional bite that is stable long term.
During a consultation, we assess your teeth, bite and jaw relationship before recommending any treatment. Not everyone with an overjet needs the same approach, and some people may not need treatment at all.
If you’re still unsure which orthodontic system is right for you, you can view an overview of the braces options we offer in Liverpool on our Braces Liverpool page.
If you’ve been told you have an overjet or are concerned about the way your teeth sit, the next step is simply a braces assessment.
You’re welcome to call the practice on 0151 236 5166
or book a consultation at Smileworks Liverpool. If you’d prefer to explore things first, you can also view an overview of our braces options here.
You can book a braces assessment online right now and come in to have an expert tell you precisely what you need. .
4.9
Based on 1824 reviews
I cannot recommend Smileworks enough. From start to finish, the experience has been exceptional and has genuinely helped me achieve the smile I have always wanted.The Smile Mirror technology was particularly valuable throughout my treatment journey. Being able to visualise the potential results gave me confidence in the process and helped me stay motivated. Seeing the transformation take shape has been incredible, and I am delighted with my new smile.Paula was outstanding. Her work with composites can only be described as artistry. The attention to detail, precision, and care she demonstrated throughout the treatment were exceptional, and the final result exceeded my expectations.Molly was equally exemplary. She was consistently kind, thorough, and professional, always making me feel comfortable and well cared for during every appointment.The whole team made the experience positive and reassuring, and I am incredibly grateful for the confidence my new smile has given me. Thank you to everyone at Glo for such an outstanding level of care.
James
07:11 12 Jun 26
Decided against going Turkey and went for 6 composite bonding for the same price,so I wasn’t expecting much too much, but wow! Jimmy went through everything and I did ask for some changes but realised Jimmy had given the correct recommendations after finishing the smile trial, and the finished product was amazing. I would recommend Jimmy for composite bonding for sure. All of the receptionists are chatty and helpful, don’t know all of their names but Marnie is lovely and knows her stuff about sport too 🥊
AB
06:36 12 Jun 26
had a great experience at Smileworks. From the moment I arrived, I was made to feel welcome and looked after. The whole team were friendly, professional, and put me at ease throughout my appointment.Everything was explained clearly, and I felt genuinely cared for from start to finish. The practice is clean, modern, and well organised, making the experience as comfortable as possible.I would highly recommend Smileworks to anyone looking for excellent dental care. Thank you to everyone for taking such good care of me!
Naomi B.
11:53 11 Jun 26
I can not thank Jihad and Sav more. They went above and beyond for me and made me feel so comfortable throughout my extraction .Very grateful for Emily on the desk too as she calmed me down and talked me through the while process.
Livia M.
09:54 10 Jun 26
They did not do a good, they wanted to finished my treatment asap. I paid thousands and the results weren't what I was expecting. They are very 'friendly', but they pushed you to give them a good review. Go to another place
konan w
13:32 08 Jun 26
I had my old composites removed and redone at Smileworks for the second time (lasted 10 years) by Paula this week. Both, Paula and Molly made me feel at ease as I have extreme anxiety at the dentist, nothing was too much and they made sure I was ok all the way through ensuring I was completely numb. Molly helped take my mind off being anxious with her lovely chat and personality. Paula is extremely knowledgeable and talented, supreme. Thank you ladies for my new found confidence and smile, they look amazing ❤️
Victoria E.
16:25 04 Jun 26
As a new patient, I had a great experience at the clinic. I booked in to have my fixed retainer replaced and also get new night retainers. Eduardo was professional, approachable, and easy to understand. I really appreciated his advice and the time he took to explain everything clearly. Steph was also lovely and gentle, and together they made the whole process smooth and professional.A big thank you to Georgia and Live on reception, who were also so friendly, welcoming, and easy to talk to.Overall, a great experience and I’d highly recommend the clinic.
Areej M
14:59 03 Jun 26
I had the absolute pleasure of having Jemma as my aesthetician, delivering laser treatment for my rosacea. From the initial consultation, I felt completely comfortable, heard and cared for. Jemma’s approach is grounded in empathy and kindness. I’ve struggled with the condition alone for quite some time, so it was a welcome relief to have somebody on my side! Her advice encompassed everything from skincare to nutrition. Her kindness and professionalism are unmatched - she takes the time to build rapport and makes you feel as comfortable as possible from start to finish. The same applies to all the staff at the clinic, including the lovely James who makes you feel so welcome upon arrival! Although my skin journey continues beyond my sessions at the clinic, Jemma has instilled in me a newfound confidence to ask questions, find answers and seek help when I need it. I will forever be grateful and 100% recommend.
Hannah D.
22:40 02 Jun 26
Had a Neo laser treatment and a peel with Becca. She is so lovely and friendly and very good at her job. I always feel quite chilled after each treatment with Becca and my skin feels fantastic I would recommend Becca and Smileworks to everyone. Amazing!!
Lynne S
14:25 30 May 26
Can highly recommend the aesthetic membership which includes the best facials with Becca. Really look forward to my monthly treatment and Becca ensures that it is always a special treat. She is professional and friendly and always makes me feel very welcome. It’s a great chance to relax and enjoy some pampering and my skin has never looked better. Thankyou Becca and see you soon x
