The term “malocclusion” is generally used by orthodontists and dentists. In the simplest form, this term means a bad bite. In dentistry, occlusion refers to how the teeth fit together when the jaws come together.
Rowlett Dental Kids treats many different types of bite issues using various orthodontic appliances like braces and invisalign. Here, in this blog. We will take a closer look at two kinds of malocclusions caused by jaw misalignment. Although often confused with each other, overjet bite and overbite are two distinct bite issues.
What Is Overbite Vs. Overjet?
Many patients think that overbite and overjet are the same but differ.
Overbite
With an overbite, the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth in the vertical plane of space. With an overbite, “excessive overlap’ means the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth by more than 3 mm. The patient will experience a vertical misalignment of teeth with an overbite. This type of malocclusion is also known as “deep bite” or “closed bite”.
OverJet
With an overjet bite, the upper teeth often protrude at an outward angle, which causes them to extend in front of the lower teeth. It is the case of horizontal misalignment of teeth. Another common term for this misalignment is “buck teeth”.
Understanding the Difference Between Overjet Vs. Overbite
The direction of excess overlap, horizontal or vertical, differentiates an overjet from an overbite. With an overbite, the upper teeth vertically overlap the lower teeth.
With an overjet issue, the upper front teeth protrude forward of the lower front teeth. Whether your child or teenager has an overjet, overbite, or both, consulting an orthodontist in Rowlett is crucial.
Problems Caused By A Dental Malocclusion
You already understand the difference between these two misalignment issues. Knowing the problems that these malocclusion conditions can cause is essential.
Overjets and overbites can lead to different problems, like-
- Speech difficulty
- Damage to enamel and gums
- Chewing problems
- Difficulty closing the mouth
- Abnormal appearance of teeth or face
Apart from these, overjets can lead to trauma to the upper front teeth, mainly when a patient is playing sports.
Causes Of Overjets And Overbites
In most cases, the cause of overbite and overjet is a mismatch in the shape and size of the jaws and teeth. Skeletal issues, such as mismatched jaw size or dental problems, lead to bite issues. There is always a genetic component to these malocclusions. However, thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, or pacifier use may also contribute to these malocclusions.
Treatment Options For Overjet Vs. Overbite
The treatment options for overbite and overjet depend on the severity of the condition and the patient’s orthodontic requirements. An overjet is a bit more challenging than an overbite, but both are treatable in most cases.
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children visit an orthodontist by age 7. This is when the permanent 6-year molars erupt and the bite pattern is established. Not all children will need treatment at this early age.
However, dental conditions must be evaluated. Effective orthodontic treatments, like braces and clear aligners, can solve these malocclusion issues.
Rowlett Dental Kids provides tailored orthodontic consultation. During the dental clinic visit, Dr. Tera Pollock provides children, teens, and parents with all the information they need to make an informed choice about the various treatments available. Schedule an appointment for further discussion.