An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth more than they should. While a subtle overlap is normal and even beneficial for proper dental function, an excessive vertical overlap can sometimes lead to functional or aesthetic concerns. This condition is a common type of malocclusion, which refers to any misalignment of the teeth or jaws.
Understanding Overbites
A normal bite involves a slight vertical overlap, typically around 1-2 millimeters, where the upper teeth gently cover the lower teeth. This minimal overlap allows for efficient chewing and speaking, distributing biting forces evenly across the teeth and jaw joints. In contrast, an overbite is characterized by a significant vertical overlap, often exceeding 3 millimeters. If the upper teeth cover more than 30% of the lower teeth, it generally indicates an overbite.
Overbites are categorized into two main types. A vertical overbite, also known as a deep bite, occurs when the upper front teeth excessively cover the lower front teeth vertically. In severe cases, lower teeth might even touch the roof of the mouth. A horizontal overbite, or overjet, involves the upper front teeth protruding significantly forward beyond the lower teeth, often appearing as “buck teeth.” Both types can occur simultaneously.
Several factors contribute to overbite development. Genetics often play a role, influencing jaw size, tooth placement, and overall facial structure. Childhood habits also contribute, such as prolonged thumb-sucking, pacifier use, tongue thrusting, or extended bottle-feeding. These habits exert pressure on developing teeth and jaws, leading to misalignment. Issues with jaw development, like a smaller lower jaw compared to the upper, can also result in an overbite.
Potential Issues Caused by Overbites
An overbite can lead to a range of issues beyond aesthetics. Excessive wear on the teeth is a significant problem. Misalignment causes uneven pressure during biting and chewing, leading to accelerated erosion of tooth enamel, chipping, or fractures. This increased wear can heighten the risk of tooth decay and sensitivity.
Functional difficulties are also common with overbites. Individuals may experience problems with chewing and biting food properly, which can affect digestion. Speech impediments, such as lisps or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds, can arise due to altered tongue placement caused by the overbite.
An overbite can place strain on jaw muscles, which can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Symptoms include jaw pain, stiffness, clicking or popping sounds, and pain radiating to the face, ears, or neck. Headaches are also common due to jaw strain. In severe cases, lower front teeth may bite into the gum tissue behind the upper teeth, causing gum irritation, inflammation, and gum recession.
Beyond functional and physical impacts, an overbite can affect self-esteem and confidence due to its visible impact on facial aesthetics. When upper teeth protrude significantly, it can alter the facial profile and affect how the lips and chin appear. This can lead to self-consciousness and reluctance to smile. In rare, severe cases, a deep overbite can contribute to breathing issues, particularly during sleep, by impacting airway patterns.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While a minor overbite is normal, certain indicators suggest professional evaluation by a dentist or orthodontist. Persistent pain in the jaw, teeth, or head is a clear sign an overbite is problematic. Difficulty with everyday functions like eating, chewing, or speaking should also prompt a visit.
Visible signs like excessive wear on front teeth, or lower teeth biting into upper gum tissue, warrant attention. Aesthetic concerns, especially if they impact self-confidence or social interactions, are also valid reasons to seek advice. If the overbite progresses or worsens, an assessment can determine its severity and potential for future complications. An orthodontist can determine if intervention is necessary and the most suitable treatment approach.
Correction Options
Correcting an overbite involves various orthodontic and, in some cases, surgical approaches, with the chosen method depending on the overbite’s severity and the individual’s age. Traditional braces are a common and effective treatment, particularly for moderate to severe overbites. Braces consist of brackets attached to the teeth, connected by wires and often incorporating rubber bands, springs, or coils to gradually align teeth and adjust jaw positioning. This method applies consistent pressure to move teeth into their desired positions and can be used to prepare teeth for surgery in complex cases. Treatment with braces typically lasts between one to three years, with regular adjustments.
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, offer a less visible alternative to traditional braces. These custom-made, transparent plastic trays are designed to gradually shift teeth into alignment. Clear aligners can effectively treat mild to moderate overbites by applying gentle, controlled pressure. For more severe cases, aligners may be used in conjunction with attachments (small, tooth-colored bumps on teeth) or elastics (rubber bands) to achieve precise movements and guide jaw positioning. Aligners are removable for eating and oral hygiene, but require consistent wear, typically 20-22 hours per day, for optimal results.
In addition to braces and aligners, other orthodontic appliances may be used, especially in younger patients whose jaws are still developing. Appliances like the Herbst appliance are fixed devices that encourage the lower jaw to move forward, correcting overbites caused by an underdeveloped lower jaw. Palatal expanders can widen the upper jaw, creating space and aiding in proper alignment. These appliances leverage a child’s growth to guide jaw development and can often reduce the need for more complex treatments later.
For severe overbites, especially those caused by significant jawbone misalignment (skeletal overbites), corrective jaw surgery, known as orthognathic surgery, may be necessary. This surgical procedure repositions the upper and/or lower jaw to achieve proper alignment. Orthognathic surgery is typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and is often combined with orthodontic treatment before and after the surgery to align the teeth properly. This comprehensive approach addresses the underlying skeletal discrepancy, improving both bite function and facial balance.