Overbite

An overbite is a type of malocclusion characterized by the upper teeth vertically overlapping the lower teeth. Notably, all healthy bites have a small overlap where the bottom teeth close inside the top teeth, but this overlap should not be more than 4 millimeters.

When the overlap exceeds 4 millimeters, the patient may be diagnosed with an overbite if the misalignment is vertical. This is also called a “deep bite.” If the misalignment is horizontal, it could be an overjet, also known as “buck teeth.”

Overbites can be caused by numerous chronic habits, including:

• Tongue thrusting
• Thumb sucking
• Teeth grinding
• Nail biting

These habits can push the upper teeth forward or narrow the palate at tender stages of physical development. Other factors such as genetic predisposition can contribute to overbite formation, However, in many cases, your dentist will not be able to pinpoint the exact cause.

The symptoms of overbite depend on the severity of the overlap. The primary symptom is unnatural wear and tear on the affected teeth, which can lead to enamel erosion, sensitivity, and a greater risk for tooth loss. Other symptoms include:

• Chewing pain
• Breathing problems
• Speaking problems
• Gum disease
• Temporomandibular joint disorders
• Chronic headaches
• Chronic neck pain
• Chronic jaw pain

Many of these symptoms are related to the uneven distribution of bite forces caused by the overlap. As the surrounding muscles and ligaments overwork to compensate, the strain can create painful imbalances in the patient’s neck, jaw, and face.

The treatment for overbite depends on the severity of the condition and the age of the patient. In young children, dentists can take more conservative action to coax their still-developing jaw structures into a healthier position. These treatments could include palate expanders, headgear, braces, or retainers. In some cases, baby teeth may be extracted to allow adult teeth to grow in healthier configurations.

In adults with developed bone structures, treating overbite can be more difficult. Many adults benefit from braces or clear aligners to fix their overbite if the source of the overlap is crooked or misaligned teeth. In some cases, tooth extractions can make room for the remaining teeth to expand more evenly.

To prevent further complications from extreme overbite, your dentist may recommend corrective jaw surgery to resolve the alignment.

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