"Overbites"

One of the most common bite situations an orthodontist deals with on a frequent basis is the correction of bites where lower teeth are set back relative to the top teeth. Such situations are often referred to as “overbites” by most people. In orthodontics, however, overbites mean something else. What the public calls “overbite” is called excessive overjet by orthodontists. For the purpose of this blog entry, I will use the term “overbite” in quotes so my colleagues will not think wrong of me.

In order to determine the best treatment for someone with this an “overbite” problem, it is important to establish with jaw is at fault. Basically, the orthodontist needs to determine why the upper front teeth are far from the lower front teeth. Is it because the upper jaw is too big for the lower jaw? Is it because the lower jaw is too small? Or is it because of both?

A thorough first examination plus a complete set of records, with digital photographs, radiographs and study models are key to helping me determine which jaw is at fault and what is the proper treatment for an ideal correction that improves the bite and the facial profile.

The purpose of correcting an “overbite” is not cosmetic. It is important to have a proper bite where the teeth work as they are intended to prevent future problems and breakdown of the teeth and jaw muscles. That said, positive changes to the jaw line and facial profile will also be noticed.