Overbite
Pronunciation: OH-ver-byt
The vertical overlap of the upper incisors over the lower incisors when the teeth are in maximum intercuspation.
Full Definition
Overbite, also termed vertical overlap or deep bite when excessive, measures how far the upper front teeth vertically overlap the lower front teeth. Expressed as a millimetre measurement or percentage of lower incisor crown height covered, a normal overbite is approximately 2–3 mm or 20–30%. An excessive overbite (deep bite) is commonly seen in Class II division 2 malocclusions. A reduced overbite or open bite occurs when upper and lower incisors do not meet vertically. Editors must carefully distinguish overbite from overjet, as both terms appear in the same documents and are commonly confused by non-specialist writers.
Usage
Usage note: One word, no hyphen. Distinguish rigorously from 'overjet.' When qualified as 'deep overbite,' the phrase is two words without a hyphen.
In Context
- "The deep overbite of 6 mm was addressed by intrusion of the upper incisors." — Orthodontic treatment summary
- "The author had incorrectly described a horizontal discrepancy as overbite; the correct term was overjet." — Copy-editing annotation