You’ve probably heard someone say they have an overbite. Maybe your child’s dentist mentioned a crossbite. Or you’ve looked in the mirror and wondered why your teeth don’t seem to line up the way they should.
Terms such as overbite, underbite, open bite, and crowding describe how the upper and lower teeth fit together. Orthodontists refer to misaligned teeth as malocclusions, meaning the bite is not aligned ideally.
Not every variation in bite requires treatment. Some differences are mild and stable. Others may benefit from orthodontic care, especially if they affect function, comfort, or long-term dental health.
Below are some of the most common bite concerns patients ask about when researching braces or Invisalign.
There are many ways teeth and jaws can develop differently. The concerns below are among the most frequently discussed during orthodontic consultations.
An overbite refers to how much the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth. A small amount of overlap is normal. When the overlap is more pronounced, it may place extra pressure on certain teeth.
In some cases, a significant overbite can contribute to uneven enamel wear or jaw fatigue. An orthodontic evaluation helps determine whether the bite is within a healthy range or whether treatment may be beneficial.
An underbite occurs when the lower front teeth sit in front of the upper front teeth. This can sometimes make the lower jaw appear more prominent.
Underbites may be related to tooth positioning, jaw growth patterns, or both. Treatment timing often depends on age and growth stage. Early monitoring allows orthodontists to track development and recommend intervention only when appropriate.
A crossbite happens when one or more upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than slightly outside them. Crossbites can involve the front teeth, back teeth, or both.
In growing children, certain types of crossbites may influence jaw development if left unaddressed. In other cases, they remain mild and stable. An orthodontic consultation helps determine whether monitoring or treatment is recommended.
A deep bite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth more than usual. In more pronounced cases, the lower teeth may contact the roof of the mouth.
Over time, a deep bite may contribute to uneven tooth wear. Treatment decisions are based on the severity of overlap and its impact on comfort or function.
An open bite means the upper and lower front teeth do not touch when the back teeth are together. This leaves a visible space between the front teeth.
Open bites may develop due to growth patterns or prolonged oral habits during childhood. The appropriate treatment approach depends on age, underlying cause, and severity.
Crowding occurs when there is not enough space in the jaw for teeth to align properly. Teeth may overlap, rotate, or erupt slightly in front of or behind neighboring teeth.
Crowded teeth can sometimes be more challenging to clean thoroughly. Orthodontic treatment can improve spacing and alignment when necessary.
Spacing refers to noticeable gaps between teeth. In young children, spacing between baby teeth is common and often part of normal development.
In older children and adults, persistent spacing may be addressed if it affects appearance, function, or stability. The need for treatment varies from person to person.
Yes. It is common for patients to have multiple alignment discrepancies simultaneously. For example, someone may have crowding along with an overbite, or spacing combined with a crossbite.
That is why a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation is important. During your consultation at Petrous Orthodontics, we assess your teeth and jaw alignment using a clinical exam and digital imaging. This allows us to understand how different factors interact and determine whether the treatment would provide a meaningful benefit.
Not necessarily.
Some mild alignment differences do not require treatment and may simply need periodic monitoring. In young children, certain concerns can improve as the jaws continue to grow and develop.
Orthodontic treatment is recommended when it may improve bite balance, tooth alignment, long-term stability, or ease of cleaning. Decisions are based on several factors, including:
Our goal is not to treat every minor variation. Instead, we recommend treatment when it is likely to improve overall oral health and function.
Modern orthodontics offers several treatment options tailored to different needs and preferences.
Metal braces remain one of the most effective tools for correcting mild to complex bite concerns. Today’s brackets are smaller and more comfortable than in the past, enabling precise tooth movement.
Ceramic braces function similarly to metal braces but blend more naturally with tooth color. Many teens and adults prefer this option for aesthetic reasons.
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, use custom trays to gradually move teeth into proper alignment. Invisalign can address many common bite concerns, though some complex cases may be better suited for traditional braces.
For patients with mild alignment issues, shorter treatment plans may be appropriate. A consultation helps determine whether this approach is suitable.
Bite development can change during childhood and adolescence as the jaws grow. Some minor concerns improve naturally. Others may become more noticeable over time.
In certain cases, untreated bite imbalances may contribute to uneven tooth wear or difficulty cleaning certain areas. This does not mean every bite difference will worsen, but it highlights the importance of evaluation.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic check by age seven. This does not mean braces are needed at that age. It simply allows orthodontists to monitor development and guide families appropriately.
A professional orthodontic evaluation is the most accurate way to determine your bite type. While you may notice that your upper and lower teeth do not line up evenly, measurements and imaging help assess alignment precisely.
Invisalign can address many mild-to-moderate bite concerns, including certain types of overbites, underbites, spacing, and crowding. More complex cases may respond better to braces. A consultation helps determine which option is most appropriate.
Some alignment differences are primarily cosmetic. Others may influence how teeth wear over time or how easily they can be cleaned. Evaluation helps determine whether treatment would offer functional benefits in addition to aesthetic improvement.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an evaluation by age seven. This early visit allows orthodontists to monitor growth and determine whether early intervention would be helpful.
In younger children, certain mild alignment differences may improve as the jaws grow. In teens and adults, bite concerns are less likely to change without treatment. Whether monitoring or treatment is appropriate depends on the individual case.
Yes. Many patients have multiple alignment concerns. Braces and clear aligners are designed to address multiple issues within the same treatment plan, when appropriate.
Jaw discomfort can have multiple causes. In some situations, uneven bite forces may contribute to strain. In others, symptoms may be unrelated to alignment. A thorough evaluation helps determine whether the bite may be contributing to the issue.
Many children, teens, and adults have some type of bite difference. Whether you are exploring braces for your child or considering Invisalign as an adult, a professional consultation can provide clarity.
At Petrous Orthodontics, we combine clinical expertise with advanced digital imaging to evaluate your bite carefully and recommend treatment when appropriate. Every smile is different, and your care plan should reflect your individual needs.
If you’re ready to learn more about braces or Invisalign in Royal Oak, MI, schedule an appointment with Petrous Orthodontics today.
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