What Is An Overbite?

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What Is An Overbite?

Understanding Signs and Treatment Options

An overbite is one of the most common dental issues affecting both children and adults. You may have heard the term from your dentist or orthodontist, or you might have noticed your top front teeth covering your bottom teeth more than usual. But what exactly is an overbite, and when should you consider treatment?

Let’s break it down.

What Is an Overbite?

An overbite (also called a deep bite or closed bite) occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth vertically. A slight overbite is normal and helps your teeth function properly. However, when the overlap is too large—typically more than 2–3 mm—it can cause functional and aesthetic concerns.

Overbites are classified as:

Skeletal overbite – Caused by jaw alignment or size discrepancies.
Dental overbite – Caused by the position or angle of the teeth, rather than the jawbone.

Signs You Might Have an Overbite

Not all overbites are visually obvious. Here are some signs that might indicate a problem:

Top front teeth cover a large portion of the bottom teeth
Jaw pain or tension in the jaw joints (TMJ)
Frequent headaches or facial discomfort
Speech issues, such as lisps
Worn or uneven teeth
Difficulty biting or chewing certain foods

Why Should an Overbite Be Treated?

An untreated overbite can lead to several issues over time, including:

Increased risk of cavities and gum disease due to difficulty cleaning overlapping teeth
Tooth wear and enamel damage
Jaw pain and TMJ disorders
Aesthetic concerns that may affect confidence
Speech and chewing problems

Treating an overbite early—especially in children—can help prevent more serious complications and often leads to better long-term results.

Have questions about your child’s bite or your own?
Schedule your complimentary consult today. We’d love to help!

Child at orthodontic consult for overbite and deep bite

Treatment Options for Overbites

The best treatment for an overbite depends on the cause, severity, and age of the patient. Here are some common approaches:

1. Braces or Clear Aligners

Braces or clear aligners like Invisalign can be used to treat overbites. They gradually move the teeth into better alignment over several months or years.

2. Growth Modification Appliances

For children and teens, special appliances can help guide jaw growth to correct skeletal issues before the jaw fully develops.

3. Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)

For adults with significant skeletal overbites, corrective jaw surgery may be needed in combination with orthodontics.

When Should You See an Orthodontist?

If you suspect you or your child has an overbite, it’s best to consult an orthodontist. Early evaluation (around age 7) allows for timely intervention. However, it’s never too late to explore treatment—even as an adult.

At Brite Bite, our orthodontic team offers complimentary consultations to assess your bite and discuss personalized treatment options. We’re here to help you or your child achieve a healthy, confident smile.

Final Thoughts

An overbite is more than a cosmetic issue—it can affect your oral health and quality of life. Fortunately, modern orthodontic treatments are effective, discreet, and more comfortable than ever before.

What happens during an orthodontic consult?

During an orthodontic consult, you and your child will meet with one of our orthodontic specialists. Photos are taken to help record your child’s current bite and tooth positioning. The orthodontist may also recommend a panoramic x-ray to help assess dental development and the positioning of unerupted teeth.

After a thorough examination, our orthodontists may recommend starting treatment. In this case, you will be provided with a comprehensive treatment plan and estimate specific to your child’s needs.