Overbite
An overbite is when the top teeth sit too far over the bottom teeth. It can be mild and harmless, or more noticeable and linked to bite comfort and tooth wear.
Overbite describes how your upper and lower teeth meet. Some overbites are normal, but a deeper overbite can increase wear, cause chips, or make the bite feel uncomfortable. Braces or aligners can often improve it, depending on severity and the jaw relationship.
What an overbite looks like
With an overbite, the upper front teeth cover the lower front teeth more than usual when you bite together. People sometimes notice the lower teeth are barely visible, or that the bite feels “deep”.
Why it happens
Tooth position: upper teeth tipped forward or lower teeth tipped back.
Jaw relationship: the upper jaw sits further forward than the lower.
Growth patterns: can develop during childhood and remain in adulthood.
Compensation: teeth can move to “fit” a bite over time.
What typically helps
Treatment depends on whether the issue is mainly tooth position, bite mechanics, or jaw relationship. In many cases, braces or aligners can reduce the overbite and improve how the teeth meet.
When an overbite needs attention
Some overbites are just a small overlap. Others can lead to tooth wear, chips, gum irritation, or a bite that feels “forced”. If you’re unsure, a photo assessment is a simple starting point.
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