Overbite, underbite, crossbite, and other malocclusions. How can bite problems be effectively addressed?

The health of our teeth and jaws is absolutely crucial to our lives. When our bite is misaligned, it affects not only our appearance and self-confidence, but also our daily functioning and overall health. Yet, between 60 and 80 percent of Czechs suffer from bite problems. The good news is that modern orthodontics can effectively address them. In this article, we’ll look at the most common types of malocclusion, their causes, and treatment options.

What bite problems exist?

There are 5 types of bite defects: crossbite, deep bite, open bite, crowded bite and gap bite. These can be combined, for example, with incorrect positioning of the teeth (so-called dental class), which can result in a very common overbite or underbite

Let’s take a closer look at the most common ones.

Overbite

The main manifestation of an overbite is a gap between the lower and upper front teeth at bite that is greater than 3 mm. The overbite of the upper jaw is characterised by the upper teeth being significantly more forward than the lower teeth.

Causes of overbite

  • Genetic factors: genetics plays a significant role in the formation of the structure of the jaws and teeth. If parents or close relatives have an overbite, it is likely that the child will have similar problems.
  • Childhood habits: some habits at an early age, such as prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier sucking, can lead to an overbite. This is often referred to as a pacifier overbite.
  • Developmental abnormalities: Some children may have an overbite due to developmental disorders that affect the growth and development of the jaws. For example, if the upper or lower jaw grows faster than the other, this can lead to misalignment of the teeth, which in turn can affect their position—the primary issue lies in the disproportionate size of the jaws.

Bite

You may come across various terms for this condition: lower jaw protrusion, negative overjet, and overbite. This refers to a condition in which, when the mouth is closed, the upper and lower teeth are not properly aligned—that is, the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth. This can lead to improper biting and other jaw problems. The problem often lies in the position of the teeth or the jaw, or in a misalignment of the jaws.

Causes of the bite

  • Genetic factors: similar to overbite, genetics can play a significant role in how jaws and teeth develop and align. In short, you can inherit misaligned jaws.
  • Developmental and growth disorders: some children may have a bite due to improper jaw growth. This misalignment may be caused by uneven growth of the upper and lower jaw or by the incorrect position of individual teeth. 

Cross bite

A crossbite is an orthodontic problem in which the upper dental arch is narrower than the lower dental arch. It can affect a single tooth, specific sections of the arch, or the entire jaw, and is often caused by both the position of the teeth and a mismatch in the size of the jaws. If left untreated, it can lead to facial asymmetry and jaw problems.

Causes of crossbite

  • Genetic factors: genetics can affect the structure and growth of the jaws, which can lead to misaligned teeth. If the parents have a crossbite, it is likely that the child will have similar problems.
  • Improper jaw development: a crossbite often occurs when the jaws do not develop properly. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of space in the mouth for proper tooth growth or an incorrect jaw position or disproportionate jaw size.

Understanding these causes is important for the correct diagnosis and thus treatment of these problems.

Deep bite

A deep bite, also known as an "overbite" or "deep overbite", is an orthodontic defect in which the upper front teeth are significantly over the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. This means that in a normal bite, the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth more than normal. This condition can cause various problems such as:

  • Wear on the teeth due to uneven contact.
  • Jaw pain.
  • Difficulty biting and chewing.
  • Aesthetic problems associated with the arrangement of teeth.

Can braces correct a deep bite? Yes, braces are one of the most common solutions for correcting a deep bite.

Causes of a deep bite

  • Genetics: bite and tooth arrangement often reflect hereditary traits, so children can inherit a deep bite from their parents. Genetics can also influence the shape and size of the jaws.
  • Irregular jaw growth: when the upper jaw develops faster or is significantly larger than the lower jaw, this can lead to a deep bite. Conversely, an underdeveloped lower jaw can also be a cause.
  • Misaligned teeth: crowded or misaligned teeth can cause a deep bite because the upper teeth tend to overlap the lower teeth more than normal.
  • Tooth loss: if molars or other teeth are lost prematurely, the stability and structure of the bite can change, leading to a deep bite.
  • Bruxism (teeth grinding): repeated grinding or clenching of the teeth can cause the teeth to shorten, resulting in the upper teeth overlapping the lower teeth more than normal.
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: TMJ dysfunction can affect the correct position of the jaws and cause bite problems, including deep bites.

Treatment of a deep bite sometimes requires orthodontic intervention in combination with surgical adjustments, whereas surgery is much more likely for overbites and overbites.

Posterior crossbite

An inverted bite is an orthodontic malocclusion in which some of the upper teeth bite behind the lower teeth instead of in front of them. This most commonly affects the back teeth (molars), but it can also affect the front teeth. Unlike a classic crossbite, a reverse bite is usually limited to a specific section of the dental arch —and is often unilateral.

Causes of an underbite

  • Genetics and development: Many cases have a genetic basis—for example, a smaller upper jaw or a larger lower jaw.
  • Misaligned teeth: This can also be a localized issue, where one or more teeth grow outside the proper dental arch.
  • Lack of space in the mouth: Teeth may tilt or become misaligned due to overcrowding in the jaw.

Why should an underbite be treated as soon as possible?

  • It can lead to facial asymmetry if it is unilateral.
  • Long-term overuse of one side of the jaw can cause pain, clicking, or other symptoms of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction.
  • This leads to bite instability, which can exacerbate other orthodontic problems.

Open bite

An open bite is a malocclusion in which the upper and lower teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed. The gaps may be between the front teeth (vertical open bite) or the back teeth ( the less common horizontal open bite). This problem is particularly common in children—and in many cases is linked to prolonged pacifier use.

Causes of an open bite

  • Bad habits in children: A common cause is prolonged use of a pacifier, thumb-sucking, or sucking on other objects.
  • An open bite in children may be temporary, but if it persists even after the habit has been broken, an orthodontic evaluation is necessary.
  • Tongue dysfunction: For example, when swallowing or speaking, the tongue may press against the teeth and create a permanent gap.
  • Genetic and growth factors: Rapid growth of the lower jaw or atypical development may also contribute.

Open Bite: Treatment

  • In children, this can be addressed by breaking the habit or, if necessary, through so-called myotherapy (training of tongue and facial muscles).
  • If an open bite persists, orthodontic treatment is necessary—most commonly with Invisalign clear aligners, which can effectively correct even a vertical open bite.
  • In severe cases where the bite is affected by skeletal factors, a combination of orthodontic and surgical treatment may be recommended.

Overbite

An overhanging bite is often confused with an overbite, but they are not exactly the same thing. In an overhanging bite, the upper teeth protrude too far forward relative to the lower teeth, but unlike an overbite, the problem may not lie in the jaws—it may “simply” be a matter of misaligned teeth.

Causes of an overbite

  • The influence of habits: Just as with an open bite—pacifiers, thumb-sucking, or poor tongue positioning.
  • Incorrect positions of the incisors: The upper incisors tend to be significantly tilted forward.
  • Underdevelopment of the lower jaw: This may also be a milder form of an overbite.

Why shouldn't you ignore an overbite?

  • There is irregular tooth contact, frequent biting of the lips, or difficulty closing the mouth.
  • In both children and adults, an overbite can significantly affect the appearance of the profile and impact self-confidence.

Underbite: Negative overjet of the lower jaw

An underbite is a type of malocclusion in which the lower teeth or lower jaw are positioned further forward than the upper teeth, so that the upper and lower dental arches “miss” each other in the opposite direction than is normal. In Czech, it is often confused with an overbite, but in humans, an underbite has a distinct skeletal basis —that is, the problem lies in the position of the jaws themselves, not just the teeth.

Underbite in Humans: Main Causes

  • Genetics: An underbite is often hereditary—it is usually caused by excessive growth of the lower jaw or, conversely, hypoplasia of the upper jaw.
  • Developmental disorders: An underbite may be part of a more complex orthodontic or craniofacial defect.

When is the right time to address a bite issue?

For children, it is best to address bite issues as early as possible—while their baby teeth are still being replaced by permanent teeth. This allows us to influence jaw growth and prevent complications in adulthood. That is why we recommend the first orthodontic examination between the ages of 6 and 8.

It’s never too late to start as an adult—even complex bite issues can now be treated discreetly and effectively with Invisalign clear aligners.

The consequences of these bite problems

All of these problems can have serious consequences in many areas:

Physical consequences

  • Jaw pain: Misalignment of the teeth and jaws can lead to chronic jaw pain. Pressure on the jaw muscles and joints can cause discomfort and pain that affect daily life (Chauhan, 2023; Bardideh et al., 2023; Srbinoska et al., 2021).
  • Problems with biting and chewing: Overbite, underbite, and crossbite can make it difficult to bite into and chew food. Misaligned teeth can cause uneven pressure distribution during chewing, which may lead to further digestive problems (Chauhan, 2023; Bardideh et al., 2023; Srbinoska et al., 2021).
  • Speech and Function: Malocclusions can cause difficulties with pronunciation, improper tongue positioning, or difficulty chewing and swallowing (Assaf et al., 2021; Bardideh et al., 2023).
  • Posture: More severe forms of malocclusion can affect the position of the head, cervical spine, and back, which may manifest as chronic neck or shoulder pain (Albert et al., 2024).
Reading tip: Comparing teeth is not just about aesthetics

Aesthetic implications

Orthodontic problems can also alter the overall appearance of the face. For example, an overbite can cause the upper teeth and lips to protrude, while the nose may appear prominent due to a receding chin (known as a “bird-like profile”). A crossbite, on the other hand, can cause facial asymmetry, which may be aesthetically unappealing. However, treatment must always be planned individually based on each patient’s specific circumstances.

Recommended Reading: Cosmetic Procedures: The Secret to a Beautiful Smile

Psychological consequences

  • Self-confidence: People with an overbite, underbite, or crossbite may suffer from low self-confidence. They find it difficult to smile, feel self-conscious, and may feel uncomfortable when interacting with others.
  • Social interactions: low self-esteem caused by orthodontic problems can also affect social interactions. People may tend to avoid social situations or hide their smile.

Treatment options

Invisalign invisible braces

Invisalign clear aligners offer a modern and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional braces, reliably correcting these bite issues. They use clear plastic aligners that are virtually invisible when worn and can be easily removed during meals and when brushing your teeth

Overbite braces in the form of Invisalign provide patients with the ability to achieve proper tooth alignment without the need to wear visible metal braces. At any age! Even adults can wear braces.

Advantages over traditional braces

Invisalign for overbite offers several significant advantages over traditional metal braces:

  • Aesthetics: Aligners are clear and nearly invisible, making them the ideal solution for adults and teenagers who want to straighten their teeth discreetly.
  • Comfort: Unlike traditional braces, which can cause irritation to the gums and inside of the cheeks, Invisalign splints are made of smooth plastic and are more comfortable to wear.
  • Hygiene: splints can be easily removed during eating and brushing, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene. This reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease during orthodontic treatment.
  • Flexibility: Invisalign allows patients to remove their splints for special occasions or sporting activities, offering greater flexibility in everyday life.

Traditional braces

Fixed braces are one of the most common methods for treating orthodontic problems such as overbite, underbite, and crossbite. This method uses metal, ceramic or sapphire brackets and wires that gradually move the teeth into the correct position. 

Tip: Check out our comprehensive comparison of braces and our detailed guide to choosing braces.

Surgical interventions

In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. It is recommended when the bite has a skeletal component, meaning the problem lies in the position or size of the jaw. Surgery for overbites and all other bite problems involves reshaping the jawbone to achieve proper alignment of the teeth and jaws. Surgical procedures are then almost always combined with orthodontic treatment to achieve optimal results.

Other methods of treating overbite and other bite problems

In addition to traditional and invisible braces, modern orthodontics offers other treatment methods that can be tailored to the individual needs of the patient. These methods include:

  • Lingual braces: These braces are placed on the inner surface of the teeth, making them virtually invisible from the outside. They are effective in treating various orthodontic issues, including crossbites.
  • Mini-implants: used as temporary anchor points for more precise tooth movement. They can be useful in more complicated cases of overbite and crossbite.

Each patient is unique and requires an individual approach to treatment. Our clinic offers comprehensive diagnostics and personalized treatment plans that include a combination of different methods according to the patient's specific needs and wishes. The goal is to achieve an optimal aesthetic and functional result that improves the patient's quality of life.

A healthy bite and a beautiful smile start with an initial consultation

Not sure if you have an overbite, underbite, or an open bite caused by a pacifier? Come visit us at Svět rovnátek for a free initial consultation. We’ll perform a quick 3D scan of your teeth, show you a visualization of the results, and recommend the most suitable treatment plan— including the cost

The consultation is painless, quick, and completely non-binding. Make an appointment today and start your journey toward a healthy bite and a beautiful smile—just click the button in the upper right corner.

You often ask

What causes an open bite in children?

The most common causes are prolonged pacifier use or thumb-sucking, but tongue position and genetics also play a role.

Can an open bite be corrected without braces?

In milder cases, yes —through lifestyle changes and functional therapy. In most cases, however, orthodontic treatment is necessary.

Is a bite the same thing as a snack?

No, an overbite is a negative protrusion of the lower jaw ( often less pronounced), whereas an underbite has a more pronounced skeletal basis and may require surgical treatment.

Can Invisalign braces help with an overbite?

Yes, when it comes to dental issues (i.e., teeth, not the jaw), Invisalign braces are a very effective treatment option.

Can an open bite caused by a pacifier be prevented in a child?

Yes—ideally, limit pacifier use until the age of 2 and switch to other soothing methods. A speech therapist can also help.

How can I tell if I have an overbite?

You can recognize an overbite by the fact that the upper front teeth protrude significantly beyond the lower ones. The gap is usually greater than 3 mm, and when the mouth is closed, the lower teeth do not touch the upper ones. Sometimes you may notice this visually— the upper lip may appear more prominent and the chin smaller. The surest way to detect an overbite is through a professional examination by an orthodontist.

How can I correct an overbite?

It depends on the type and severity. In simpler cases, an overbite can be corrected with braces, ideally with Invisalign clear aligners. For more complex issues (especially if the problem lies in the position of the jaws, not just the teeth), a combination of braces and orthognathic surgery may be necessary. It’s important to start treatment as soon as possible—less invasive solutions are often sufficient for children.

How much do front teeth cost?

If you’re wondering about the cost of repairing, replacing, or cosmetically treating your front teeth, the answer depends on the procedure you choose. Enamel repair can cost a few hundred crowns, cosmetic veneers start at 7,000 CZK per tooth, and Invisalign treatment to straighten front teeth typically costs between 50,000 and 100,000 CZK. Every case is unique, so we recommend a consultation—which is free at our clinic.

Read: Braces: How much do they cost and how long does treatment take?

What is an overbite?

An overbite is an orthodontic condition in which the upper teeth protrude significantly beyond the lower teeth. It can be caused by genetics, bad habits (such as thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use), or abnormal jaw growth. An overbite affects not only appearance but also proper bite function, speech, and tooth wear.

What is an underbite?

An underbite is the opposite of an overbite. When biting down, the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth. This is usually a more serious orthodontic defect with a significant impact on jaw function, and it often has a skeletal (bony) origin—such as excessive growth of the lower jaw. In addition to aesthetic concerns, it can also cause speech and chewing difficulties, as well as pain in the temporomandibular joint.

How is a stomach ache treated?

Underbite (sometimes referred to as mandibular prognathism) is most commonly treated with orthodontic treatment —that is, braces. In milder cases, braces alone are sufficient; in more complex cases, a combination of orthodontic and surgical treatment is necessary, especially if the condition is caused by jaw growth rather than just the alignment of the teeth.

What does a proper bite look like?

A proper bite is one in which the upper teeth slightly overlap the lower teeth (by about one-third). The teeth are aligned in a straight line, without noticeable gaps or crowding, and when the mouth is closed, pressure should be evenly distributed between the upper and lower jaws. The bite should not cause difficulties when chewing, speaking, or at rest.

How is an open bite treated?

An open bite, in which the upper and lower teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed, is treated depending on the cause. In children, eliminating bad habits (such as using a pacifier or thumb-sucking) and early orthodontic intervention can help. 

Adult patients usually need braces, and if the cause is skeletal, they also require surgical correction. Treatment with Invisalign clear aligners is a modern and effective method.

How much does lower jaw surgery cost?

Orthognathic surgery, which is performed in more severe cases of underbite or other skeletal defects, can cost anywhere from several tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of crowns. If the procedure is medically necessary, it may be covered (in full or in part) by health insurance. The cost always depends on the specific diagnosis, the type of procedure, and the facility where it is performed.

Would you like to know what type of bite you have?

Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation —at Svět rovnátek, we’ll take a 3D scan of your teeth and design the perfect custom solution for you.

Resources used:

  • Albert, C., Haddad, C., Lungu, I., Costescu, E., Apintiliesei, A., Bahrim, D., Morarasu, C., & Stefanache, A. (2024). DIFFERENT BITE CLASSES AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON BODY POSTURE: A REVIEW. Romanian Journal of Oral Rehabilitation. https://doi.org/10.62610/rjor.2024.4.16.23
  • Alhammadi, M., Halboub, E., Fayed, M., Labib, A., & El-Saaidi, C. (2018). Global distribution of malocclusion traits: A systematic review. Dental Press Journal of Orthodontics, 23, 40.e1–40.e10. https://doi.org/10.1590/2177-6709.23.6.40.e1-10.onl 
  • Assaf, D., Knorst, J., Busanello-Stella, A., Ferrazzo, V., Berwig, L., Ardenghi, T., & Marquezan, M. (2021). Association between malocclusion, tongue position, and speech distortion in schoolchildren with mixed dentition: an epidemiological study. Journal of Applied Oral Science, 29. https://doi.org/10.1590/1678-7757-2020-1005
  • ‍Bardideh, E., Tamizi, G., Shafaee, H., Rangrazi, A., Ghorbani, M., & Kerayechian, N. (2023). The Effects of Intrusion of Anterior Teeth by Skeletal Anchorage in Deep Bite Patients; A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Biomimetics, 8. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics8010101 
  • Chauhan, S. (2023). Deep bite: An insight. IP Indian Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Research. https://doi.org/10.18231/j.ijodr.2023.028
  • Esperancinha, C., Mendes, S., & Bernardo, M. (2024). Malocclusion in primary dentition: a cross-sectional study in a Portuguese preschool population. European Archives of Paediatric Dentistry, 25, 721–729. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40368-024-00935-1
  • İşler, A., Hezenci, Y., & Bulut, M. (2025). Prevalence of orthodontic malocclusion in children aged 10–12: an epidemiological study. BMC Oral Health, 25. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-025-05650-x
  • Lin, L., Chen, W., Zhong, D., Cai, X., Chen, J., & Huang, F. (2023). Prevalence and Associated Factors of Malocclusion among Preschool Children in Huizhou, China: A Cross-Sectional Study. Healthcare, 11. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11071050 
  • Lombardo, G., Vena, F., Negri, P., Pagano, S., Barilotti, C., Paglia, L., Colombo, S., Orso, M., & Cianetti, S. (2020). Worldwide prevalence of malocclusion in the different stages of dentition: A systematic review and meta-analysis. European Journal of Paediatric Dentistry, 21(2), 115–122. https://doi.org/10.23804/ejpd.2020.21.02.05
  • Srbinoska, D., Trpevska, V., Radeva, M., & Mijoska, A. (2021). MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH ANTERIOR DEEP BITE AND TMD: A CASE REPORT. Journal of Morphological Sciences. https://doi.org/10.55302/jms2143033s
  • Zhou, Z., Liu, F., Shen, S., Shang, L., Shang, L., & Wang, X. (2016). Prevalence of and factors affecting malocclusion in primary dentition among children in Xi’an, China. BMC Oral Health, 16. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-016-0285-x

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