Overbite vs Overjet: Know the Difference

Braces or aligners are useful for a variety of teeth issues. These also include jaw misalignment. Of these, one might often get confused between an overbite and an overjet. A misaligned jaw can affect the way you smile, but it can also make it difficult for you to consume food.

Here in this article, we talk about two types of bite issues, overbite and overjet. Let us break it down for you.

What is an Overbite?

An overbite is when your upper teeth overlap the lower teeth by 3 millimetres. This leads to constant impact between your upper and lower jaws which can wear down your teeth and lead to other dental issues such as jaw pain, damage to the jaw and gums, sleep apnea, and even speech problems. An overbite is also known as a deep bite or a closed bite. It is a vertical misalignment between the upper and lower jaw.

What is Overjet?

An overjet is a horizontal misalignment between your jaws. Overjet teeth happen when the upper jaw pushes outward. Here the overjet teeth overlap the neighbouring teeth which means that upper incisors are present in front of the lower incisors. An overjet makes oral functions difficult such as chewing and speaking. Also known as buck teeth, this issue also does not let you close your lips fully.

Difference Between Overjet and Overbite

Overjet

• Horizontal misalignment of the jaws

• Upper teeth overlap the lower teeth by 3 millimetres

• Even though the upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth, the positioning remains straight or downward

Overbite

• Vertical misalignment of the jaws

• The horizontal separation between teeth is more than 2 millimetres

• The teeth protrude at an outward angle

Causes of Overbite & Overjet Teeth

Overbite and overjet issues are also described as ‘malocclusions’, which is Latin for ‘bad bite’. Listed below are the causes of an overbite:

• Genetics

• Excessive thumb sucking as a child

• Tongue thrust

• Excessive use of pacifier as a child

• shape or size of the jaw and teeth

• Thumb thrusting

How to Fix an Overbite and Overjet

If you feel you have an overbite or overjet issues, then it is time you visit an orthodontist. After doing a 3D scan of your jaws, they may recommend treatments with braces or aligners, veneers, crowns, dental bonding, teeth removals or even surgery. The severity of your case will determine which option the orthodontist offers you for treatment. Nowadays there are quite a few convenient options available to treat overjet and overbite issues. If you are wary of using traditional braces then you can take a look at makeO toothsi’s clear aligners. At makeO, you can get a 3d scan done in the comfort of your home and the clear aligners will be customised and delivered to you. These invisible aligners are transparent trays and hence are discreet from the public eye. Check out affordable EMI options for your treatment starting at Rs 3,219 per month.

Overbite Vs Overjet: Frequently Asked Questions

Is overbite and overjet the same thing?

While these terms are used interchangeably, these are two different dental issues. An overbite is a vertical misalignment issue where the upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth. An overjet is a horizontal misalignment issue where the upper front teeth protrude at an outward angle.

How to know if you have an overjet?

If you have an overjet you may notice your upper teeth are sticking out 2mm in front of your lower teeth. You might accidentally be biting your tongue or the inside of your cheek.

How long does braces treatment take to fix an overbite?

As each case is unique there is no fixed time frame for braces to correct an overbite. However, it might take six months to two years approximately depending on the severity of the case.

Is it too late to fix an overbite?

There is no age limit to fixing an overbite. As long as you have teeth that have not lost any enamel, then you can fix your overbite.

Does overjet change your face shape?

Yes. Overjet means there is an excess protrusion of your upper teeth. It does change the shape of your face and make your lips seem protruding.