An overbite, clinically known as a Class II malocclusion, is a common dental misalignment where the upper front teeth and jaw noticeably overlap the lower teeth and jaw. While a slight vertical overlap is normal for a healthy bite, a significant protrusion creates functional issues that extend far beyond cosmetic concerns. When left uncorrected, this misalignment sets the stage for long-term mechanical and biological complications. These complications impact the entire oral system, including the teeth, gums, jaw joints, and surrounding musculature.
Increased Vulnerability to Dental Trauma
One of the most significant risks of an uncorrected overbite is the increased potential for traumatic dental injuries. When the upper front teeth protrude excessively, they lose the natural protective cushion provided by the lips. This exposure leaves the incisors highly susceptible to accidental impact.
Research indicates that a horizontal protrusion (overjet) of 5 to 6 millimeters or more is associated with a three-fold increase in the risk of suffering dental trauma. Injuries commonly include fractures, chipping of the enamel, or luxation (displacement of the tooth from its socket). The lack of proper lip coverage means that even minor impacts can result in severe damage requiring extensive restorative work.
Chronic Wear and Enamel Deterioration
An uncorrected overbite subjects the teeth to continuous, uneven mechanical stress that leads to chronic deterioration. The improper relationship between the upper and lower arches causes pathological attrition, which is excessive wear resulting from tooth-to-tooth contact. In deep overbites, the lower incisors may repeatedly contact the gum tissue or the backs of the upper incisors, leading to uneven surface wear. This continuous friction slowly erodes the protective enamel layer, exposing the underlying, softer dentin. Once dentin is exposed, the wear process accelerates, causing increased sensitivity and a higher risk of structural failure.
Strain on Jaw Joints and Musculature
An overbite significantly contributes to strain on the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) and the musculature responsible for chewing and speaking. The TMJs connect the jawbone to the skull, and their proper function relies on the teeth meeting in a balanced alignment. When the bite is misaligned, the lower jaw is often forced into a strained, unnatural position to achieve closure. This constant positional compromise causes chronic fatigue and tension in the muscles of mastication, manifesting as frequent headaches, facial pain, and neck discomfort. Over time, this sustained pressure can contribute to temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), causing symptoms like clicking sounds, limited mouth opening, and generalized pain.
Exacerbated Oral Health and Hygiene Issues
The structural issues created by an overbite severely complicate routine oral hygiene, leading to a higher incidence of common dental diseases. When teeth overlap or are crowded, they create narrow, hard-to-reach areas that a toothbrush and floss cannot effectively clean. This inadequate cleaning allows plaque, a sticky biofilm of bacteria, to accumulate unchecked. The prolonged retention of plaque significantly increases the risk of both dental caries (tooth decay) and periodontal disease. In deep overbite cases, the lower front teeth can impinge directly on the gum tissue behind the upper teeth, causing trauma that accelerates localized gum recession.