{"id":6088,"date":"2026-08-04T06:55:20","date_gmt":"2026-08-04T06:55:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/naturadent.hu\/?p=6088"},"modified":"2026-08-04T06:55:20","modified_gmt":"2026-08-04T06:55:20","slug":"which-bite","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/naturadent.hu\/en\/melyharapas\/","title":{"rendered":"Deep bite"},"content":{"rendered":"

A deep bite, also known as an overbite, is a common dental condition that occurs when the upper incisors overlap the lower teeth more than usual. It is not just an aesthetic problem: if left untreated, it can even lead to serious complications.<\/p>\n

Treatment of the condition is most successful during childhood; however, it is very common for treatment only to take place in adulthood, either because the condition is not particularly severe, or because it went unnoticed earlier, or perhaps because there was no opportunity for correction.<\/p>\n

It is important to emphasise right at the outset, however, that a deep bite requires treatment even in milder cases; whilst a routine dental examination is sufficient to make the diagnosis, the treatment itself requires more detailed planning.<\/p>\n

What is a deep bite, how can it be recognised, and what methods are available to correct it? In this article, we have compiled all the key information that may be useful for patients about to undergo treatment.<\/p>\n

What is a deep bite?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

A deep bite is a dental malocclusion that occurs when, upon occlusion of the molars, the upper incisors overhang the lower incisors excessively.<\/p>\n

We can distinguish between several different degrees of this condition. A mild overbite is common in almost everyone, but if the upper incisors overlap the lower teeth by more than 2\u20134 millimetres, this is classified as a deep bite.<\/p>\n

The decision on treatment is always made by a dentist, and intervention is generally required when, in addition to aesthetic deterioration, the patient\u2019s condition causes jaw pain, tooth erosion, gum inflammation or other oral problems.<\/p>\n

Overjet or deep bite?<\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n

A deep bite is often confused with a condition known as an overjet, which is also a type of overbite, but one that occurs horizontally rather than vertically.<\/p>\n

Whilst, therefore, in a deep bite the upper incisors overlap the lower ones too deeply, in the case of an overjet the upper incisors protrude forwards in relation to the lower ones, meaning that the teeth do not make contact and the teeth do not align properly.<\/p>\n

Why is it necessary to treat a deep bite?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Apart from aesthetic considerations, treating an overbite is also extremely important for health reasons, namely for the following reasons:<\/p>\n

Tooth damage can be prevented<\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Upper incisors that overhang the lower incisors excessively exert a constant abrasive effect on one another, which, in more severe cases, can damage the tooth enamel and the entire tooth structure, thereby increasing the risk of tooth decay, and sensitivity.<\/p>\n

The severity of gum problems can be reduced<\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n

An excessive overbite can damage the gums attached to the affected teeth, which, due to constant irritation, can lead to chronic inflammation, gum recession in the long term, and other periodontal problems \u2013 and may even result in periodontal disease.<\/p>\n

Chewing quality can be improved<\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n

A deep bite fundamentally affects the quality of chewing; indeed, in cases of more severe misalignment, the teeth may constantly rub against the roof of the mouth, which can lead to painful sores or even ulcers. This can affect everyday activities such as eating.<\/p>\n

Further orthodontic problems can be prevented<\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n

It is important to note that, if left untreated, a deep bite can lead to further orthodontic problems or exacerbate existing ones, such as crowding or gaps between the teeth. However, all of this can be avoided with the appropriate treatment.<\/p>\n

Causes of deep bite<\/strong><\/h2>\n

There are numerous causes of an overbite, but most of them can generally be traced back to poor habits during childhood and a lack of appropriate parental supervision. The most common causes are as follows:<\/p>\n