What’s the Difference Between an Overbite and an Underbite?

underbite overbite

We can probably all agree that a bulldog looks pretty cute with its lower teeth protruding forward, often sitting just outside the upper lips. However, most people will also agree that they don’t want to look like a bulldog.

But, just like our teeth, our jaws can become misaligned so that our teeth don’t match up as they should. Depending on how the jaw sits, jaw misalignment is also known as having an underbite or an overbite.

Left uncorrected, these misalignments can cause discomfort, pain and even damage to your mouth.

The good news is that with new technology, some jaw misalignment can be fixed without braces or surgery.

What’s an overbite?

Also called a deep bite or closed bite, an overbite is defined as when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth too much when the jaw is naturally closed. In other words, the upper front teeth are much further forward than the lower teeth.

This typically happens when the lower jaw is undersized or if the upper front teeth protrude forwards.

Dangers of an overbite

A small overbite will not have much of an effect beyond aesthetics. However, if severe enough, an overbite can cause:

  • Excess growth in the lower front teeth which can cause excess wear, crowding or even sores where the teeth make contact with the upper palate

  • Discomfort when eating or speaking

  • Speech impediments

What’s an underbite?

An underbite is defined as when the lower front teeth protrude past the upper front teeth when the jaw is closed naturally. The bulldog, for example, is well known for its underbite.

Dangers of an underbite

  • More difficult to properly clean teeth (which can lead to an increased risk of cavities)

  • Difficulty chewing food

  • Undue strain on teeth and jaws

How to fix an underbite or overbite

Depending on the severity, there are a variety of ways to correct jaw misalignments, which can include:

  • Invisalign

  • Braces

  • Surgery

If you or your child is dealing with an overbite or an underbite, it’s best to be proactive and consult with a dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to guide you and ensure your teeth and jaw are straightened out to avoid the dangers of overbites and underbites.

Conner Hendry