Experts call attention to health and developmental impact of overbite and underbite Premium

Experts emphasize the health impact of overbite and underbite, urging early screening for effective treatment and prevention.

Dental problems range from mild plaque build-up and temporary sensitivity to advanced gum disease and oral cancer. Dentists say one of the most common but overlooked concerns, especially in children is malocclusion or misalignment of the teeth and jaws.

According to the World Health Organization, oral diseases affect nearly 3.5 billion people globally. Malocclusion is among the most prevalent oral conditions worldwide. The Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 lists severe malocclusion as a leading cause of non-fatal oral health burden. Studies also estimate that between 20% and 40% of school-going children show some degree of bite irregularity.

“People think it is only about appearance,” says Vijayalakshmi Padmanaban, consultant in oral and maxillofacial surgery, Kauvery Hospital, Chennai. “But bite alignment affects chewing, speech, jaw joint health and even how the face grows.”

An overbite refers to the vertical overlap of the upper front teeth over the lower front teeth. A small overlap of about 2 mm is normal. When the overlap becomes excessive, it is called a deep overbite. An underbite, on the other hand, occurs when the lower front teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth, often giving the chin a forward appearance.

“In children, the upper teeth should gently overlap the lower teeth,” explains Pavani Thota, consultant in paediatric dentistry at Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Chennai. “If the overlap is too much, or if the lower teeth are sitting in front, it needs assessment. These patterns reflect jaw growth, not just tooth position.”

R. Poonkuzhali Suresh, consultant orthodontist, SIMS Hospital, Chennai, adds, “Underbite usually happens when the upper jaw is underdeveloped or the lower jaw grows excessively. Overbite may be due to vertical growth imbalance between the jaws.”