Detecting Bite Problems

An orthodontist reviews many factors when first making an evaluation. Although treatment plans vary from patient to patient depending on the position and size of the jaws and teeth the following facts are noted during your evaluation. Please take a few minutes to review the diagrams below to help your orthodontist find answers to your bite problem.

Do the upper front teeth protrude?

Excessive flaring of the upper front teeth -aka “buck teeth” - is by far the most common.

Is there a deep overbite?

The upper front teeth cover the lower causing too much vertical overlap. Excessive vertical overlap (”overbite”) leads to excess wear and shortening influenced by lip and tongue pressures of the upper and lower front teeth over time.

Is there an underbite?

The upper front teeth fit inside the lower front teeth.

Is there an openbite?

You can stick your tongue between the front teeth when the back teeth are together.

Is there too little space for the teeth (crowding)?

Crowded or overlapped teeth.

Are there large gaps between the teeth(spacing)?

Noticeably large spaces or gaps between the teeth.

Do the front teeth line up?

The center line of the upper and lower front teeth should line up with each other and down the center of the face. When they do not, then the probable cause is drifted teeth or a shifted lower jaw resulting in an improper bite.

Do the back teeth line up (crossbite)?

The upper back teeth fit inside, rather than outside, the lower back teeth.