What Is an Overbite and How Is It Corrected?

Dental health holds great importance for the overall well-being of an individual. However, different factors have contributed to the immense increase in dental malocclusions. Issues like overbite, underbite, and gapped teeth have become common, impacting the smile aesthetics and confidence of many individuals. However, the advancements in dentistry have made teeth straightening and fixing any dental issues, like an overbite, easier than ever. In this blog, let us delve into the understanding of an overbite, its common causes, and overbite treatment options.

What Is an Overbite?

An overbite (also known as a deep bite if the overlap is more than 4mm) occurs when the upper front teeth overlap significantly over the lower front teeth when the mouth is closed. A normal overbite is about 1–2 millimeters, meaning your upper teeth slightly cover your lower ones. However, when the overlap exceeds this range, it’s classified as a malocclusion, which may require orthodontic correction.

Types of Overbites

There are two main types of overbites: dental and skeletal, and understanding the difference is key to choosing the right treatment.

1. Dental Overbite

A dental overbite is caused by the improper alignment of teeth rather than jaw position.

• Often results from habits like thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or prolonged pacifier use.
• The jaw structure is normal, but the teeth have shifted forward.

2. Skeletal Overbite

This type is caused by disproportionate jaw growth, usually when the upper jaw extends too far over the lower jaw.

• It’s often hereditary and may require more complex orthodontic or surgical intervention.

Common Causes of Overbite

Overbites can develop due to a combination of genetic, developmental, and behavioral factors. Understanding these causes is key to both prevention and effective treatment. Here are the most common reasons an overbite may occur:

Genetics

Genetics plays a major role in determining the shape and size of your jaw, as well as the position of your teeth. If you inherit a smaller lower jaw or a larger upper jaw from your parents, the upper teeth may naturally extend further over the lower teeth, resulting in an overbite. Similarly, hereditary traits like crowded teeth or jaw misalignment can also contribute to the condition. In such cases, early orthodontic intervention can help guide proper jaw growth and alignment.

Childhood Habits

Certain habits developed during early childhood can significantly affect dental alignment. Prolonged thumb sucking, pacifier use beyond the age of three, or extended bottle feeding can place consistent pressure on the upper front teeth, gradually pushing them forward. Over time, this can cause a misalignment between the upper and lower jaws. Dentists often recommend breaking these habits early to prevent bite-related complications.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Chronic teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can alter the natural alignment of your teeth over time. The excessive pressure and friction from grinding often occurring unconsciously during sleep can wear down enamel, shorten tooth structure, and push the teeth out of their correct positions. This gradual shifting can worsen or create an overbite, especially if left untreated. Custom night guards are often recommended to prevent further damage.

Tongue Thrusting

Tongue thrusting refers to the habit of pushing the tongue against the front teeth while swallowing or speaking. This repetitive motion exerts forward pressure on the upper teeth, gradually moving them out of place. Over time, this can cause both an overbite and spacing issues. Correcting tongue thrusting through therapy or orthodontic treatment can help prevent the condition from worsening.

Missing or Crowded Teeth

When teeth are missing, especially in the lower jaw, the remaining teeth can shift to fill the space, disrupting the natural bite alignment. Conversely, overcrowding forces teeth to grow in irregular positions, often leading to overlapping or forward-tilted teeth. Both situations can contribute to the development of an overbite by creating an imbalance between the upper and lower arches.

Why Should an Overbite Be Corrected?

Many people assume that an overbite is purely a cosmetic issue, but its impact goes far beyond appearance. If left untreated, an overbite can lead to several functional and oral health complications. Correcting it early not only enhances your smile but also prevents long-term damage to your teeth and jaw. Here’s why addressing an overbite is so important:

Prevents Excessive Tooth Wear and Enamel Erosion

When your upper teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth, the constant friction can cause uneven wear. Over time, this can lead to enamel erosion, making teeth more vulnerable to sensitivity, chipping, and decay. Proper alignment ensures even distribution of bite force and helps preserve enamel integrity.

Reduces Jaw Pain and TMJ Disorders

A misaligned bite places extra stress on the jaw joints and surrounding muscles. This imbalance can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, causing symptoms such as headaches, jaw stiffness, pain near the ears, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth. By correcting the bite alignment, you can reduce strain and restore natural jaw function.

Prevents Gum Recession and Tooth Damage

When the teeth don’t meet correctly, the gums and supporting bone can experience uneven pressure, leading to gum recession and increased risk of tooth damage. In severe cases, an untreated overbite may even cause trauma to the gums or palate when the lower teeth hit the soft tissue behind the upper front teeth.

Improves Chewing and Speech Function

An overbite can affect the way your upper and lower teeth come together, making it harder to bite and chew food efficiently. It can also interfere with speech clarity, leading to lisps or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. Correcting the overbite restores proper alignment, helping improve both chewing ability and speech patterns.

Lowers Risk of Cavities and Oral Health Problems

Misaligned teeth are harder to clean, as food particles and plaque tend to accumulate in hard-to-reach areas. This increases the risk of tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. Straightening your teeth and correcting the bite not only enhances aesthetics but also supports better oral hygiene and long-term dental health.

How to Fix Overbite?

Modern orthodontic advancements have made overbite correction simpler, faster, and more discreet than ever. The ideal treatment depends on the severity and type of overbite.

Let’s explore the most effective methods below:

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners have emerged as a popular option for teeth straightening. They are used to align teeth and bring about a desirable change. They are made of plastic and, unlike braces, are not fixed to the teeth but can be easily worn. They are ideal for mild to moderate dental misalignments, including an overbite.

Benefits:

• Virtually invisible, no metal brackets or wires
• Comfortable and removable
• Easier to maintain oral hygiene
• Custom-made for precision and comfort

Clear aligners are a modern, aesthetic, and highly effective way to correct mild to moderate overbites without traditional braces. Overbite correction with ALIGNERCO clear aligners can help you achieve the smile you have always wanted.

Traditional Braces

Traditional metal braces are the oldest, most well-known method for teeth straightening. Metal or ceramic braces apply continuous pressure using brackets and wires to gradually move the teeth and realign the bite.

Benefits:

• Braces for overbite are highly effective for complex or severe cases
• Suitable for both children and adults
• Overbite braces can correct jaw alignment, along with tooth position

While braces are visible, they remain a reliable choice for patients needing precise and comprehensive correction.

Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)

If the overbite results from significant jaw misalignment, surgery may be required to reposition the upper or lower jaw. This is typically combined with orthodontic treatment before and after surgery for optimal results.

Benefits:

• Corrects functional and aesthetic issues
• Permanent structural improvement
• Improved facial symmetry and bite balance

The correction time depends on the severity of the overbite and the chosen overbite treatment method:

• Mild overbites (aligners or braces): 6–12 months
• Moderate overbites: 12–24 months
• Severe overbite (surgery): Up to 2 years

Clear aligner systems often deliver faster results for mild cases due to precise digital treatment planning.

How to Prevent Overbite from Returning

After treatment, wearing retainers as directed is essential to maintain results. Here are a few tips to prevent relapse:

• Always wear your retainer as prescribed.
• Avoid habits like nail biting or grinding teeth.
• Schedule regular dental checkups.
• Maintain good oral hygiene and proper jaw posture.

Overbite Correction

An overbite might seem like a small dental concern, but it can significantly impact your oral health, confidence, and comfort. Fortunately, today’s orthodontic solutions like clear aligners make correcting an overbite simpler, more discreet, and more comfortable than ever before. If you’ve noticed your upper teeth overlapping more than they should, now’s the perfect time to consult an orthodontic expert. With customized aligners and advanced treatment planning, achieving your perfect smile is easier than you think.