Overbite

An overbite is when the upper front teeth overlap the lower teeth more than usual. Orthodontic treatment such as clear aligners or braces can often improve how the teeth meet depending on severity and jaw relationship.

Signs of an overbite
Upper teeth cover most of the lower teeth when biting together
The lower teeth may be barely visible when smiling
Front teeth may experience increased wear or chipping
The bite may feel deep or uncomfortable
What an overbite usually means

A small overbite is common and often normal. When the overlap becomes deeper, however, the bite can place extra pressure on certain teeth.

A deeper overbite may increase wear on teeth, cause chipping, or make the bite feel uncomfortable. Orthodontic treatment focuses on improving how the upper and lower teeth meet.

Common causes

Tooth position: upper teeth tipped forward or lower teeth tipped back.

Jaw relationship: the upper jaw may sit further forward than the lower.

Growth patterns: bite relationships can develop during childhood.

Compensation: teeth can shift over time to accommodate the bite.

Conditions often related to overbites
Underbite

The lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth.

Learn about underbite →
Open bite

Front teeth do not meet when biting together.

Learn about open bite →
Crowded teeth

Limited space can affect how the bite fits together.

Learn about crowded teeth →
Teeth sticking out

Protruding teeth can influence bite position.

Learn about protruding teeth →
What usually helps
Clear aligners: often suitable for mild-to-moderate overbite correction.
Braces: commonly used for deeper overbites requiring stronger bite control.
Understanding Bite Alignment

How Overbites Are Usually Treated

Orthodontic treatment begins by understanding how the upper and lower teeth meet.

Once the bite pattern is understood, teeth can be guided gradually into a more balanced relationship.

Assess the bite
Orthodontists evaluate how the upper and lower teeth meet.
Choose the treatment
Aligners or braces may be recommended depending on severity.
Guide the teeth
Teeth gradually move into a healthier alignment.
Maintain the result
Retainers help keep the improved bite stable.

Takes about 5 minutes • No obligation

1. Assess the bite
Bite pattern is evaluated.
2. Choose the treatment
Treatment depends on bite pattern.
3. Guide the teeth
Teeth shift gradually.
4. Maintain the result
Retainers maintain results.
Treatments
Problems
Explore your options
Quick links

Not sure where to start? Use these quick links to explore orthodontic treatments, typical costs, and helpful guides that explain what different options involve. Whether you're researching braces or clear aligners, comparing pricing, or just getting a feel for what comes next, you can browse at your own pace and come back when you're ready to request a quote.

Want to see if overbite can be straightened?

A guided photo assessment can show whether your alignment looks like crowding, relapse after braces, or a bite pattern that orthodontic treatment could improve.

Takes about 5 minutes • No obligation

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