Overbite vs. Underbite
A smile is often the first thing people notice about you. But what if your teeth don’t align properly?
Dental malocclusion, such as overbite and underbite, are more than just cosmetic issues and can not only affect your self-esteem but also lead to various oral health problems.
Understanding your bite
A bite refers to the manner in which the upper and lower teeth come together when the mouth is closed.
It plays a vital role in our daily lives:
- Helping us chew food properly.
- Speak clearly.
- Maintain optimal oral health.
A healthy bite distributes forces evenly across the teeth, helping to protect them from wear and tear.
What is an overbite?
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth.
This vertical misalignment can vary in severity, from a slight overlap to a condition where the upper teeth completely cover the lower teeth.
An overbite is considered a malocclusion, or a bad bite.
The causes of overbite
Overbite can arise from a variety of factors:
- Genetic predisposition
Inherited jaw size and shape plays a significant role in the development of overbite. If parents have an overbite, their children are more likely to inherit the tendency towards this dental condition.
- Habitual behaviour
Certain habits, particularly during childhood, can contribute to the development of an overbite. Prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier use can exert pressure on the developing jaw, potentially affecting its growth and leading to an overbite.
- Early tooth loss
The premature loss of baby teeth can disrupt the natural alignment of the remaining teeth.
When a baby tooth falls out too early, the surrounding teeth may shift into the empty space, affecting the proper eruption of the permanent teeth and potentially contributing to an overbite.
Types of overbites
Overbites can vary in severity and appearance, here are some common types:
- Deep bite
In a deep bite, the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth, often biting into the lower lip.
- Anterior crossbite
This occurs when the upper front teeth are positioned behind the lower front teeth.
- Posterior crossbite
In this type of overbite, the back teeth (molars) do not align properly, with the upper molars biting inside the lower molars.
- Skeletal overbite
Caused by underlying skeletal discrepancies, this type of overbite involves a mismatch in the size or position of the upper and lower Jaws.
What is an underbite?
An underbite occurs when the lower jaw and teeth protrude forward, extending beyond the upper jaw and teeth. This misalignment can vary in severity, ranging from a slight forward positioning of a lower jaw to a more pronounced condition where the lower teeth significantly overlap the upper teeth.
This type of malocclusion can affect both the appearance and function of the teeth and jaws, and it is considered a dental malocclusion.
The causes of underbite?
Underbite can result from a combination of genetic, developmental, and environmental factors:
- Developmental issues
Imbalances in the growth of the upper and lower Jaws can lead to underbite.
- Habitual behaviour
Certain habits, like tongue Thrusting, mouth breathing or prolonged pacifier use, can contribute to underbite.
- Genetic factors
- Tooth loss
Types of underbites
Underbites can also present in various forms, each with its own unique characteristics:
- Class III Division 1
This is the most common type of underbite, characterised by the lower incisors protruding significantly beyond the upper incisors.
- Class III Division 2
In this type, the lower incisors protrude forward, but the upper incisors are tipped backwards.
- Skeletal class III
This type of underbite results from significant discrepancies in the size and position of the upper and lower jaws.
The health consequences of overbites and underbites
Overbite and underbite can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. Beyond cosmetic concerns, these malocclusion can lead to functional issues such as:
- Difficulty chewing, speaking and swallowing.
- Chronic pain including headache and jaw pain.
- Dental problems like tooth wear and gum disease.
Diagnosis of overbite and underbite
Diagnosis involves a thorough examination by a dentist or orthodontist. The process usually includes:
- Clinical examination
The dentist will carefully examine the mouth, teeth and jaws to assess the alignment of the teeth, the bite, and the movement of the jaw.
- X-rays
Dental x-rays, such as panoramic x-rays and cephalometric x-rays, provide detailed images of the teeth, jaws, and surrounding structure, helping to identify any underlying issues.
- Models
Dental impressions are taken to create plaster models of the teeth and jaws. These models allow the dentist to study the bite relationship in three dimensions and plan treatment.
Early detection is essential for effective treatment. Regular dental check-ups, especially for children, can help identify developing problems and allow for timely intervention.
Treatment options for overbite and underbite
A variety of treatment options are available for correcting overbites and underbites, depending on the severity of the condition and the individual patient’s needs.
- Orthodontic treatment
Like braces(traditional metal braces, clear aligners, or lingual braces), is often the primary treatment method.
- Jaw surgery
In more severe cases, jaw surgery may be necessary to correct significant jaw discrepancies.
- Headgear, palatal expanders and retainers
Treatment options may include them to maintain the desired tooth alignment after treatment.
The role of the orthodontist
Orthodontists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating malocclusion such as overbite and underbite. These highly trained dental specialist possess the expertise to:
- Accurately diagnose
Conduct through examination, analyse x-rays and models, and identify the underlying causes of malocclusion.
- Develop customized treatment plan
Create personalised treatment based on the individual patient’s needs, considering factors such as age, severity of the malocclusion, and overall oral health.
- Monitor treatment progress
Regularly monitor patients during treatment to ensure that the treatment plan is effective and make adjustments as needed.
- Provide guidance and support
Educate patients about their treatment options, answer their questions, and address any concerns they may have.
- Maintain long-term results
Provide and monitor the use of retainers to maintain the achieved tooth alignment after treatment is complete.
Orthodontists work closely with patients to achieve optimal results and improve their overall oral health and well-being.
If you suspect that you or your child may have an overbite or underbite, it’s essential to consult a qualified dentist or orthodontist for a proper evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and minimize the potential long-term effects of these conditions.
