What Is a Deep Bite?

A deep bite (sometimes called a deep overbite) happens when your upper front teeth overlap your lower front teeth too much when you close your mouth. In a healthy bite, your upper teeth should overlap your lower teeth by about 2-3 millimeters. With a deep bite, that overlap can be significantly more—sometimes your upper teeth completely cover your lower teeth.

You might notice:

  • Your lower front teeth hitting the roof of your mouth when you bite down
  • Excessive wear on your front teeth
  • Gum irritation or recession behind your upper front teeth
  • A “gummy smile” where more of your gums show when you smile
  • Jaw pain or TMJ symptoms
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Why Does a Deep Bite Need Treatment?

While a deep bite might not bother you cosmetically, it can create real functional problems over time. Your teeth aren’t designed to handle the kind of pressure that comes with a deep bite, which can lead to premature wear, chipping, or even fractures.

The constant pressure can also affect your jaw joints and the muscles around them, potentially contributing to TMJ issues. And when your lower front teeth are constantly hitting the tissue behind your upper teeth, it can cause gum recession or other soft tissue problems.

How Dr. Henry Treats Deep Bites

Dr. Henry creates a customized treatment plan based on what’s causing your deep bite and how severe it is. Treatment might involve:

  • Braces or Invisalign to move teeth into better positions and reduce the overlap. Sometimes this means bringing lower teeth up or moving upper teeth up into the gums slightly—it all depends on your specific bite.
  • Bite ramps or turbos that temporarily prevent your back teeth from coming together fully, allowing your back teeth to erupt and reduce the deep bite.
  • Elastics that help guide your bite into the correct position during treatment.

For some patients, particularly teens who are still growing, Dr. Henry might recommend early intervention to guide jaw growth and prevent a deep bite from becoming more severe.

What to Expect During Treatment

The timeline for correcting a deep bite varies depending on how significant the overlap is and whether other orthodontic issues need to be addressed at the same time. Most patients see significant improvement within 12-24 months.

During your initial consultation at our St. Johns office, Dr. Henry will take detailed records of your bite, including photographs and digital scans, to determine the best approach for your situation. He’ll walk you through what treatment will involve and answer any questions you have about the process.

Ready to Learn More?

If you’re dealing with a deep bite—or you’re not sure if your bite overlap is normal—Dr. Henry can evaluate your situation and explain your options. Contact Henry Advanced Orthodontics to schedule a consultation at our St. Johns office, conveniently located near St. Augustine and the greater Jacksonville area.

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Testimonials

Not only do both my children go to Dr Henry’s but I do as well. We are all treated with kindness by a staff that’s very friendly and patient. Juggling each of our own needs, personalities and tolerance to the “adjustments”, I know we are in the best hands in St Johns County.

K Geary

We are only a few months into our first kid’s treatment but are very happy so far! Easy to get in for an appointment, never have to wait long and the office staff is super friendly and professional! Can’t wait to see how good my son’s teeth look in about a year! I was also very impressed that Dr Henry didn’t force early treatment for my daughter but took a wait & see approach…the questionable tooth shifted and that conservative approach saved us a couple thousand dollars. She will still need braces and we will definitely be using Dr Henry!

Meredith

Dr. Henry has a great way of making visits a fun adventure for my son. He always looks forward to going for his check ups. Wonderful staff all around!

April

I love going to Henry Advanced Orthodontics! Dr Henry is very good at what he does and my daughter loves going to the orthodontist! How many parents can say that? His staff are the nicest people and treat everyone like they are family! 100% recommend to anyone needing orthodontic care!

Andrea