I skipped braces for overbite. Can I get braces now?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 18, so basically, I was given twin block braces to fix my overbite two to three years ago. I hated them and could not get used to them, so I asked my dentist to just skip straight to having braces.

I now regret this deeply as I now have braces and got four teeth extracted, and my jaw would have been way better if I had used the twin blocks.

Is there any way I can get the twin block braces back?
Can I pause my braces treatment or get them in after my braces?

Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Twin block braces are most effective during early teenage years when the jaw is still growing and can be guided into a better position.

By age 18, some growth may still occur, but the window of maximum effectiveness is closing.

Since you have already had extractions and are in fixed braces, your orthodontist has committed to a treatment plan that aligns your teeth within your current jaw structure rather than trying to change the jaw itself.

This makes switching back to twin blocks complicated and usually not recommended. That said, there are still ways to influence your bite while finishing braces.

Orthodontists often use elastics or other appliances alongside braces to mimic some of the functional effects of twin blocks, though they will not achieve the same degree of jaw change.

If you remain unhappy with your jaw position after braces, surgical options exist later in life, but only in more severe cases.

The best step now is to have an open conversation with your orthodontist about your concerns and whether any growth-guiding adjustments are still possible at your age.

I hope I have answered your query, and I will be happy to assist further.

Thank you.