Overbite
Pronunciation: OH-ver-byt
The vertical overlap of the upper incisors over the lower incisors when the teeth are in occlusion, measured in millimetres.
Full Definition
Overbite measures how far the upper front teeth vertically overlap the lower front teeth when the jaws are closed. A normal overbite is approximately 2–4 mm or one-third the height of the lower incisor crown. An increased or deep overbite is common in Class II division 2 malocclusions, while a reduced or open bite describes insufficient or absent vertical overlap. Editors frequently encounter this term misused as a synonym for overjet; the two terms measure entirely different spatial dimensions and should never be used interchangeably in clinical text.
Usage
Usage note: One word, no hyphen. Editors must distinguish this from 'overjet' (horizontal measurement). 'Deep bite' is a colloquial synonym but 'increased overbite' is preferred in formal clinical writing.
In Context
- "A complete overbite with palatal impingement was noted and factored into the appliance design." — Treatment planning note
- "The aim of treatment was to reduce the deep overbite by intrusion of the lower incisors." — Orthodontic case report