The vertical overlap of the upper front teeth over the lower front teeth. A small overbite (1-2mm) is normal. An excessive overbite ("Deep Bite") is where the upper teeth cover more than 30% of the lower teeth.

Why It Matters

A deep bite can cause the lower teeth to bite into the gum of the roof of the mouth (palatal impingement) or cause excessive wear on the lower front teeth.

Clinical Details

• Confusion: Patients often confuse "Overbite" (vertical overlap) with "Overjet" (horizontal protrusion/buck teeth).

FAQ

What is an overbite?

When the top teeth hang too far down over the bottom teeth.

How to fix overbite?

Clear Aligners (Invisalign) with bite ramps or Braces are effective at "intruding" the front teeth to open the bite.