What is an Overbite and How Can You Fix It?

Many people have a small overbite without realising it. An overbite happens when the top front teeth overlap the bottom front teeth. In many cases, this overlap is mild and completely normal. 

A small overlap of about 2 to 4mm is usually healthy and does not cause problems. At our dental clinic, we often see patients who want to understand their bite and improve their smile.

In this guide, we will explain what an overbite is, what causes it, and the main treatment options that can help correct it.

What is an Overbite?

An overbite is a type of dental misalignment that happens when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth when the mouth is closed. Dentists may also call it a deep bite or Class II malocclusion.

In a healthy bite, the upper teeth normally overlap the lower teeth by about 2 to 4 mm. This small overlap helps the teeth fit together properly. When the overlap is greater than 4 mm, dentists often recommend looking at treatment.

What are the Types of Dental Overbite?

There are two main categories, and knowing which type you have makes a real difference when it comes to treatment.

Skeletal Overbite

This type is caused by the size or position of the jawbones. The upper jaw may be larger than normal, or the lower jaw may be smaller or set further back. Skeletal overbites are often inherited and, in some adult cases, treatment may involve a combination of orthodontics and jaw surgery.

Dental Overbite

This type happens when the jawbones are normal, but the teeth grow in the wrong position or angle. Dental overbites are usually easier to correct and often respond well to orthodontic treatments such as different types of braces or clear aligners.

Orthodontists may also describe an overbite based on how the teeth overlap. They do this either by the depth of the vertical overlap or by the forward position of the teeth when an overjet is also present.

Overbite vs Overjet: What’s the Difference?

People often confuse an overbite with an overjet, but they are slightly different. An overbite is a vertical overlap, where the upper front teeth cover too much of the lower teeth when you bite down. An overjet is a horizontal problem, where the upper front teeth stick out too far in front of the lower teeth.

Some people have both conditions at the same time. Dentists usually measure them in illimetres during an exam to decide whether treatment like braces or clear aligners may be helpful.

What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Overbite?

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The most common cause of an overbite is genetics. If one or both of your parents have an overbite, you are more likely to develop one too. This is because jaw shape, jaw size, and tooth alignment can be passed down in families.

Another common foundation for overbite are bad childhood habits that affect how the teeth and jaws develop. Thumb sucking, long-term dummy or pacifier use, tongue thrusting, and extended bottle feeding can slowly push the teeth forward or change how the bite forms.

Other factors can also contribute, even when you’re an adult. These include teeth grinding (bruxism), missing or impacted teeth, and overcrowded teeth, which may cause nearby teeth to move out of place. Habits such as nail biting or chewing on pencils can sometimes make the problem worse.

The symptoms of an overbite often appear slowly, so some people do not notice them at first. Common signs include:

• Upper front teeth that noticeably overlap the lower teeth
• Difficulty biting or chewing certain foods
• Speech changes, such as a slight lisp
• Jaw pain or tension
• Headaches around the temples
• Clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth

If you notice these signs, it is a good idea to book a dental check-up so a dentist can assess your bite and recommend the right treatment if needed.

How to Fix an Overbite

The best way to fix an overbite depends on a few factors. These include the type of overbite, how severe it is, and the patient’s age. Children whose jaws are still growing may have different treatment options than adults whose jaw structure is fully developed.

Invisalign

Invisalign fixes overbite in many mild to moderate cases using clear, custom-made trays that fit over your teeth and gently move them into the correct position. You usually wear them for 20 to 22 hours a day and remove them only to eat, drink, brush, and floss.

Invisalign treatment often takes 12 to 24 months, depending on the case. Many adults and teenagers choose Invisalign because the aligners are discreet and comfortable to wear.

For younger patients whose jaws are still developing, we may use Invisalign Mandibular Advancement. This type of aligner helps guide the lower jaw forward while straightening the teeth.

At Zental, we also offer shorter-term alternatives like QuickStraightTeeth and Six Month Smiles for mild alignment issues, giving patients flexible options depending on their needs. Invisalign is usually a private treatment in the UK and is not typically available on the NHS. During a consultation, your orthodontist will assess whether aligners are suitable for your overbite.

Braces

Traditional metal or ceramic braces are another reliable way to correct an overbite, especially in moderate or more complex cases. Small brackets are attached to the teeth and connected with a wire. Your orthodontist adjusts the wire during regular appointments to slowly move the teeth into the correct position.

Elastic bands are sometimes used with braces to help guide the bite into better alignment. Treatment with braces usually takes around 18 to 30 months, depending on the complexity of the case. 

Some patients prefer clear braces, which use tooth-coloured brackets that blend in with your teeth, or lingual braces, which are placed on the inside of the teeth and are hidden from view. These options can be useful for people who want a more discreet way to straighten their teeth.

Also, Braces for children are widely used because young patients’ teeth and jaws respond quickly. 

Tooth Extraction

In some cases, crowded teeth make it harder to correct an overbite. To create enough space for proper alignment, your orthodontist may recommend removing one or more teeth. This helps the remaining teeth move into their correct positions more easily and can make braces or Invisalign more effective.

Extractions are only done when clinically necessary and are always discussed in detail beforehand. Your orthodontist can also provide a clear estimate of tooth extraction costs, so you understand how it fits into the overall treatment plan. Knowing the costs upfront helps you plan for the procedure alongside other overbite correction options.

Overbite Correction Surgery

Severe skeletal overbites may require jaw surgery, especially in adults whose jaws have stopped growing. This procedure is called orthognathic surgery and involves moving the upper jaw, the lower jaw, or both into a better position.

The surgery is performed inside the mouth, so there are usually no visible scars. Recovery often includes a short hospital stay and a few weeks of healing time.

Surgery is usually combined with orthodontic treatment, such as braces or aligners, before and after the procedure to align the teeth properly.

It is important to know that surgery is rare and only recommended when orthodontic treatment alone cannot correct the overbite. If it is needed, your dental team will explain the process clearly and support you throughout the treatment.

Overbite in Children vs. Adults

Overbite treatment can look different for children and adults.

For children, treatment is often easier because their jaws are still growing and their bones are more flexible. This means the teeth and jaw can respond faster to orthodontic treatment. Dentists may use several options, including palate expanders, functional appliances such as Twin Block devices, braces, or headgear, to guide jaw growth and improve the bite.

Many orthodontists recommend that children have their first orthodontic assessment around age 7 or 8. Early checks help identify bite problems sooner and allow dentists to choose from a wider range of treatments. In the UK.

For adults, the jawbones have already finished growing, so treatment usually focuses on moving the teeth rather than guiding jaw development. Braces and clear aligners such as Invisalign are both effective options for many adults. However, treatment can take longer, especially in more complex cases. If the overbite is caused by jaw structure rather than tooth position, jaw surgery may sometimes be recommended.

The main point is that early treatment can make correction simpler and faster, but adults can still successfully treat an overbite and improve both their smile and oral health.

Why Correcting an Overbite Is Important

Correcting an overbite is not only about improving how your smile looks. It can also protect your long-term oral health.

If left untreated, an overbite can cause uneven tooth wear, tooth sensitivity, and strain on the jaw joints, which may lead to TMJ problems. It can also make chewing less efficient and sometimes irritate the gums.

In some cases, an overbite can affect speech, causing a slight lisp or difficulty with certain sounds. Treating the bite can often help improve this.

A properly aligned bite also supports balanced facial structure and helps prevent long-term dental problems. Many patients also notice a boost in confidence after treatment.

What are the Complications of an Untreated Overbite?

Not every overbite causes problems. A mild one may never need treatment at all. But when a moderate to severe overbite is left unaddressed, the effects can build up over time in ways you might not immediately connect to your teeth.

• Headaches: Jaw strain from an uneven bite can cause tension headaches, earaches, or ringing.
• Teeth Grinding: Misaligned teeth may lead to clenching and grinding (bruxism), which wears down enamel and causes jaw pain.
• TMJ Problems: Extra stress on the jaw joint can cause pain, clicking, and difficulty opening your mouth.
• Neck and Posture Issues: Overbites can affect tongue and jaw position, sometimes leading to neck and shoulder tension.
• Facial Changes: Untreated overbites can make the lower face shorter, the chin recessive, and the cheeks appear sunken.
• Speech Difficulties: Overbites can affect certain sounds like "s" and "sh," especially in children.
• Higher Risk of Tooth Injury: Protruding front teeth are more likely to chip, crack, or break during accidents or sports.

When to Seek Professional Help for Treating the Overbite

Children should have their first orthodontic check-up around age 7 or 8, as recommended by the British Orthodontic Society. Early assessment can help guide jaw growth and prevent bigger problems later.

Adults should see a dentist or orthodontist if they notice jaw pain, frequent headaches, teeth grinding, chewing difficulties, or speech issues.

Even without symptoms, overbites can slowly cause damage that is easier to prevent than fix. Regular dental check-ups every 6 to 12 months are the best way to spot issues early, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

If you are unsure whether your overbite needs treatment, book a consultation with our team at Zental. We provide a relaxed, supportive environment where your comfort comes first.

Wrapping up

Overbites are one of the most common dental issues out there, and they are also one of the most treatable. Whether you are a parent looking into options for your child or an adult who has been putting off treatment for years, there is a clear path forward. From discreet Invisalign aligners and tried-and-tested braces to surgical correction for more complex cases, learning how to fix an overbite starts with a conversation with an experienced orthodontist.

Early treatment tends to be simpler and quicker, but adults achieve wonderful results every day. At Zental, we are here to support you through every step, in an environment built around calm, comfort, and genuine care.

FAQ

When should I see my dentist about an overbite?

You should speak to your dentist if you notice your upper teeth overlapping your lower teeth by more than a few millimetres, or if you experience jaw pain, headaches, difficulty chewing, or speech problems. Children should be seen by an orthodontist by age 7 or 8. Even without obvious symptoms, a dentist can assess whether your overbite needs monitoring or treatment before it leads to longer-term issues.

Can you get rid of an overbite naturally?

No, an overbite cannot be corrected without professional treatment. Tongue posture exercises and similar techniques may offer minor support during very early jaw development, but they cannot fix a moderate or severe overbite. Only orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign, or in more severe cases, jaw surgery, can successfully correct the alignment of your teeth and jaws.

How long does it take to fix an overbite with braces?

Treatment time with braces typically falls between 18 and 30 months, depending on the severity of the overbite and whether extractions or other adjustments are needed. Simpler dental overbites may resolve closer to the 18-month mark, and more complex skeletal cases can take longer. Your orthodontist will give you a personalised timeline at your initial consultation.

What are the advantages of Invisalign treatment over braces for overbite correction?

When comparing Invisalign vs braces, Invisalign is nearly invisible, removable for eating and brushing, and often more comfortable. It works well for mild to moderate overbites with similar treatment times to braces. For more complex cases, traditional braces may offer more control. Your orthodontist at Zental can help you decide which option is best for your situation.