What Is an Overbite?
An overbite refers to how much the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth when biting down. In an ideal bite, the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth by about 1–2 mm. When this overlap becomes more pronounced—typically 4 mm or more—it is considered a form of malocclusion that may benefit from orthodontic evaluation.
What Causes an Overbite?
Overbites often develop naturally as teeth erupt and jaws grow, and genetics can play a significant role. Certain childhood habits—such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting—may also contribute by placing pressure on the front teeth and jaw during development.
Because overbites affect how the teeth, jaws, and bite function together, they are commonly evaluated and managed by orthodontic specialists.
Common Orthodontic Approaches to Overbite Correction
The type of orthodontic treatment recommended depends on age, growth patterns, and the severity of the bite issue. Common approaches may include:
- Clear aligners, which gradually guide teeth into improved alignment
- Traditional braces, used to address more complex tooth and bite movement
- Space management during childhood to support proper eruption of adult teeth
- Collaborative care with oral surgery specialists for severe jaw discrepancies in adults
While orthodontic care can be effective at many ages, early evaluation is often encouraged. Children are typically advised to have an orthodontic screening around age 7 to identify bite concerns while growth is still occurring.
How Overbite Care Fits Into Orthodontic Treatment
Overbite correction is one part of comprehensive orthodontic care. Treatment planning considers overall bite balance, facial growth, and long-term oral health—not just tooth alignment alone.
To learn more about how overbite treatment fits into comprehensive orthodontic care, visit our Orthodontics page.