What is a Deep Overbite? Causes & Treatments

Smiling Women

A small overbite is normal. However, when it is too big, it can become a problem.

A deep overbite is not just an aesthetic issue (patients may be embarrassed about their smile or the appearance of their jaw), but it also causes dental problems like:

  • Gum and soft tissue damage
  • Headaches
  • Jaw pain
  • Loss of tooth structure
  • Tooth loss

Close up of deep overbite

What is a deep overbite?

A deep overbite is a malocclusion in which the upper front teeth almost completely overlap the lower front teeth.

This often causes the lower front teeth to bite into the palate or gum tissue behind the upper front teeth.

What causes a deep overbite?

A deep overbite can be caused by different factors such as:

  • Small lower jaw
  • Genetic conditions
  • Thumb sucking in children
  • Long-term term use of a pacifier in toddlers
  • Injury
  • Grinding or clenching your teeth
  • Not enough room in your mouth for all your permanent teeth

How to fix a deep overbite?

Deep overbites can be corrected with orthodontic treatment.

The type of treatment varies depending on the patient’s age, the severity of malocclusion, and aesthetic goals.

We have a range of treatments available at Hampstead Orthodontic Practice.

During your first consultation, we will conduct a thorough orthodontic examination of your mouth so that we can recommend the best treatment for your individual needs.

Often, a deep bite is treated either with braces like Damon braces, Incognito braces, and Symetri Clear braces, or clear aligners like Invisalign.

It’s always better to start the treatment as early as possible to minimize the severity.

FAQs about deep overbites

 

Can Invisalign fix a deep overbite?

Yes, Invisalign clear aligners can fix a deep overbite. This is especially effective for children and teens as the earlier you correct the overbite, the better. Invisalign is designed to push teeth back into place, so it is perfect for correcting overbites.

Can braces fix a deep overbite?

Yes, braces are one of the most popular treatments for a deep overbite. The use of braces to fix deep overbites have been used for many years with continued success. Braces can be fixed to pull the teeth in the desired direction. This gives the orthodontist much more control over where the teeth will end up.

How long does it take to correct a deep overbite?

On average, it will take 18–24 months to correct a deep overbite.

Complex cases involving jaw surgery may take a longer time. If you don’t have any other orthodontic issues except for the deep overbite, then you can likely get it corrected in less than a year.

When is jaw surgery needed?

Jaw surgery is needed to correct a skeletal overbite and is usually only performed on adults. Surgery can reposition the jaw when braces aren’t enough to correct it. This surgery is often done after braces have been worn and it is not unheard of that corrective braces are used post-jaw surgery to ensure alignment.

To learn more about the orthodontic treatments we offer, visit our treatments page.

Or if you’d like, you can receive a FREE online consultation that will include an orthodontic examination of your teeth carried out by Dr. Alvanos and our Orthodontic Team.

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