Overbite, Under Bite, Bite Shift

What Do These Terms Mean?

Overbite and underbite are orthodontic terms which generally mean bad bite. The general medical term for these is malocclusion.

Overbite happens when the upper jaw is bigger than the lower jaw; hence, it hangs over the lower jaw when the mouth is shut. Underbite is the reverse the lower jaw is bigger than the upper jaw. These conditions not only negatively impact a person’s physical look, but also interferes with proper chewing, an important factor in digestion. Underbite is more difficult to correct, but both of these conditions can be remedied by wearing braces. A dental bridge is a false tooth or teeth, known as a pontic, which is fused between two porcelain crowns to fill in the area left by a missing tooth. The two crowns holding it in place are attached onto your teeth on each side of the false tooth. This is known as a fixed bridge. This procedure is used to replace one or more missing teeth. Fixed bridges are permanent and cannot be removed like dentures can be.

Overbite and underbite may be hereditary, but these can also be caused by premature loss of baby or adult teeth, prolonged thumb sucking, accidents, or other medical abnormalities or disorders.

Bite shift happens as a result of crooked teeth and jaws that are not properly aligned. Shifting the teeth and jaws back into position through orthodontic and surgical solutions will normalise the bite.

If you are concerned, please give us a call on (07) 4191 4787 or visit the practice at 180 Main St, Kawungan QLD 4655.