What’s an Overbite, Underbite, and Crossbite? Understanding Bite Problems

Bite issues, also known as malocclusions, affect how your upper and lower teeth align when your jaw is closed. These problems are more than cosmetic; they can impact your oral health, speech, and even your overall well-being. Let’s break down the most common bite issues- overbites, underbites, and crossbites -to help you understand what they are, how they develop, and how orthodontics can address them.

Overbite

An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively. While a slight overlap is normal, a pronounced overbite can lead to problems.

Signs of an Overbite:

• Your upper teeth visibly cover more than 1/3 of your lower teeth when you bite
• Difficulty biting or chewing certain foods
• Increased risk of wear and tear on the upper front teeth

Potential Issues Caused by an Overbite:

• Jaw pain or discomfort due to uneven pressure
• Damage to the front teeth, including chipping or cracking
• Speech difficulties, such as a lisp

How It’s Treated:

Orthodontic treatment like braces, Invisalign, or clear aligners are often used to correct overbites. Severe cases my require jaw surgery.

Underbite

An underbite happens when the lower front teeth protrude past the upper front teeth.

Signs of an Underbite:

• A noticeable jutting out of the lower jaw
• Difficulty chewing or biting food
• Chronic jaw pain or tension

Potential Issues Caused by an Underbite:

• Excessive wear on the lower front teeth
• Increased risk of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders
• Difficulty with certain sounds during speech

How It’s Treated:

Treatment options include braces, clear aligners, and sometimes jaw surgery for severe cases. Early intervention during childhood can often minimize the severity of an underbite.

Crossbite

A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth fit inside the lower teeth instead of outside when the jaw is closed. It can affect a single tooth or multiple teeth, and it may occur at the front or back of the mouth.

Signs of a Crossbite:

• Misalignment of teeth when biting down
• Uneven wear on the teeth
• Jaw shifting to one side when closing the mouth

Potential Issued Caused by Crossbites:

• Jaw pain or strain from the uneven bite
• Increased risk of gum disease or tooth decay due to improper cleaning
• Facial asymmetry over time if left untreated

How It’s Treated:

Early intervention with palatal expanders (for children) or braces can correct crossbites. For adults, clear aligners or braces combined with other orthodontic appliances may be recommended.

Why Addressing Bite Problems Matters

Ignoring bite issues can lead to long-term consequences for your oral health and overall well-being:

• Tooth Damage: Uneven bites put excessive pressure on certain teeth, leading to fractures or enamel wear.
• Gum Problems: Misaligned teeth can make it harder to clean your gums effectively, increasing the risk of gum disease.
• Jaw Pain: Bite issues often strain the jaw muscles and joints, leading to discomfort or TMJ disorders. (See our blog on Understanding TMJ Disorders)
• Speech Impairments: Misaligned bites can interfere with proper tongue placement, affecting speech clarity.

Next Steps: Identifying and Treating Your Bite Problem

If you suspect you or your child has a bite issue, it’s important to consult an orthodontist. Through an evaluation that includes x-rays and a physical examination, your orthodontist can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment.

Remember: The earlier bite problems are addressed, the easier they are to correct. Even adults can achieve remarkable results with modern orthodontic solutions like braces or Invisalign.

At Vivid Orthodontics, Dr. Maslowski and Dr. Michel specialize in creating personalized treatment plans for patients of all ages. Their expertise, combined with cutting-edge orthodontic technology, ensures you’ll receive the best care possible to achieve a healthy, confident smile. Schedule a consultation today to start your journey toward better oral health and a smile you’ll love to show off!