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A deep bite is a common bite issue that clear aligners can often address effectively. Here is what it is, how aligners treat it, and what you can expect from treatment.
What Is a Deep Bite?
A deep bite, also called a deep overbite, occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively when the mouth is closed. In a normal bite, the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth by about two to three millimetres, covering roughly 25 to 30 percent of the lower teeth. In a deep bite, this overlap is significantly greater, sometimes covering the lower teeth almost entirely.
Some people with a deep bite may find that their lower teeth bite into the roof of the mouth, or that the lower front teeth are not visible at all when the mouth is closed.
Can Clear Aligners Fix a Deep Bite?
Yes, and this is an area where modern clear aligners perform particularly well. Deep bite correction requires a combination of intruding, or pressing down, the front teeth and sometimes also extruding, or pulling up, the back teeth. The precise, controlled force application of clear aligners makes them well suited to these types of movements.
Mild to moderate deep bites are very commonly addressed with aligner treatment. Severe deep bites may require a more involved treatment approach, but many cases that would previously have required fixed braces can now be managed successfully with aligners.
Why a Deep Bite Should Be Treated
A deep bite is not just a cosmetic issue. When the lower teeth bite too deeply against the upper teeth or the palate, it can cause accelerated wear of both the upper and lower front teeth. Over time, the enamel on the lower front teeth wears away as they repeatedly contact the back of the upper front teeth.
A deep bite also places excess stress on the front teeth and can contribute to jaw muscle tension and temporomandibular joint discomfort. Treating a deep bite protects both the teeth and the jaw from long-term consequences.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Deep bite correction is often one of the more time-intensive parts of an aligner treatment plan. Moving teeth vertically, particularly intruding the front teeth, takes longer than some other movements. Most deep bite corrections as part of a full aligner treatment plan take six months to two years depending on the severity and what other movements are needed simultaneously.
Your specific timeline will be detailed in your treatment plan based on the degree of your deep bite and the other goals of your treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can clear aligners fix a deep overbite?
Yes. Deep bite correction is an area where modern clear aligners are very effective. By intruding the front teeth and making adjustments to the back teeth, aligners can reduce the overbite to a healthy level. Mild to moderate deep bites are routinely treated with aligners.
Is a deep bite the same as an overbite?
These terms are often used interchangeably, though technically an overbite refers to any amount of vertical overlap between the upper and lower front teeth. A deep bite specifically refers to an excessive overbite, where the overlap is significantly greater than normal.
Why should I treat my deep bite?
A deep bite causes uneven wear on both the upper and lower front teeth and can contribute to jaw muscle tension and joint discomfort. Left untreated, it can result in significant enamel loss over time. Treatment protects your teeth and jaw health.
How long does deep bite correction with aligners take?
Vertical tooth movements tend to take longer than some other types of movement. Deep bite correction as part of an overall aligner treatment plan typically takes six months to two years depending on severity. Your treatment plan will provide a specific timeline for your case.
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