Overjet
Pronunciation: OH-ver-jet
The horizontal distance between the upper and lower incisor edges, measured parallel to the occlusal plane.
Full Definition
Overjet (sometimes called horizontal overlap) is a key diagnostic measurement in orthodontics, quantifying the extent to which the upper incisors project in front of the lower incisors in the horizontal plane. It is recorded in millimetres and may be positive, zero (edge-to-edge), or negative (in Class III cases where the lower incisors are in front). Editors must not confuse overjet with overbite, which measures vertical overlap. The term is written as one word without a hyphen.
Usage
Usage note: One word, no hyphen. Never substitute 'overjet' with 'overbite'; they measure different planes of space. Reverse overjet (negative value) is the preferred clinical descriptor for Class III incisor relationships.
In Context
- "The patient had an increased overjet of 9 mm associated with a Class II division 1 incisor relationship." — Orthodontic assessment note
- "Reduction of overjet to 2–3 mm is a standard treatment objective in Class II correction." — Treatment planning document