Overbite

An overbite, sometimes called a deep bite, is a type of malocclusion where the upper front teeth vertically overlap the lower front teeth more than normal. A small amount of overlap of 2 to 3 millimeters is considered healthy, but a significant overbite can cause the upper teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth or the lower teeth to wear against the back of the upper teeth. Deep overbites are associated with jaw pain, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders, accelerated enamel wear, and in some cases speech difficulties. Overbites can be caused by genetics, thumb-sucking or pacifier use in early childhood, or the early loss of back teeth. Treatment options include braces, clear aligners, or in severe skeletal cases, corrective jaw surgery.