Understanding Overbites, Underbites, and Crossbites

You may have heard terms like overbite, underbite, or crossbite — but what do they actually mean, and how serious are they? At Papasikos Orthodontics in Montclair, NJ, we treat a wide range of bite issues every day. Understanding your diagnosis is the first step toward fixing it and you can learn more here.

What Is a Bite Problem?

A “bite” refers to how your upper and lower teeth come together. When they meet correctly, it’s called a normal occlusion. When they don’t, orthodontists call it a malocclusion. There are several types, each with different causes and solutions.

Overbite – A deep overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth too much vertically. Mild overbites are common and often normal. Severe overbites can cause the lower teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth, leading to discomfort and wear. Braces and Invisalign can often correct overbites effectively.

Underbite – An underbite occurs when the lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw, causing the lower teeth to sit in front of the upper teeth. Underbites can affect chewing, speech, and facial appearance. Early treatment with expanders or braces is often recommended, and in severe cases, jaw surgery may be considered.

Crossbite – A crossbite is when one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth instead of outside. It can occur in the front or back of the mouth. Crossbites can cause tooth wear, gum recession, and jaw asymmetry. Palatal expanders are commonly used to treat crossbites, often in combination with braces.

Open Bite – An open bite means there’s a gap between the upper and lower front teeth when the back teeth bite together. It’s often associated with prolonged thumb sucking or tongue thrusting. It can make biting into food difficult and may affect speech.

Do you suspect you or your child has a bite problem? Get expert answers at Papasikos Orthodontics in Montclair, NJ. Call 973-744-2511 or stop by 55 Park Street, Montclair, NJ 07042 for a thorough evaluation. We’ll explain everything in plain language.