Overbite & Overjet Correction in Leicester
An overbite — where the upper front teeth sit too far over the lower ones — is one of the most common bite issues we see. A small overlap is completely normal and healthy; it's when the overlap becomes excessive, often called a deep bite, that it can start to cause problems. The good news is that overbites respond very well to modern treatment, and correcting one is about far more than appearance — it protects your teeth and jaw for the long term. Overjet is where the upper teeth sit far too forward in front of the lower teeth. This page explains what an overbite and overjet is; why it matters and how we can put it right.
What Is an Overbite (Deep Bite)?
In a healthy bite, the upper front teeth overlap the lower ones just slightly when you close your mouth. An overbite is when that vertical overlap is too great — the top teeth cover much more of the bottom teeth than they should. In a pronounced deep bite, the lower front teeth may even bite into the roof of the mouth. It helps to picture a well-fitting lid on a box: it should sit neatly over the base, not slam down so far that it presses into it. When the "lid" of your upper teeth closes too deeply over the lower ones, the pressure has to go somewhere — and that's where the trouble starts.
Why Correcting an Overbite Matters
A deep overbite isn't just a cosmetic issue. The excessive overlap can cause the lower front teeth to wear down prematurely, and the constant abnormal pressure can strain the jaw joints, contributing to jaw pain, clicking and headaches. In severe cases, the lower teeth biting into the gum behind the upper teeth can damage the soft tissue. An overbite can also make the lower teeth harder to clean properly. Correcting it evens out the forces across your teeth and jaw — a bit like realigning a door so it stops catching on the frame — which protects everything from unnecessary wear.
What Causes an Overbite?
Most overbites are down to the way the jaw and teeth have developed, which is largely genetic — the upper and lower jaw may differ slightly in size or position. Childhood habits such as prolonged thumb-sucking or dummy use can encourage an overbite to form, as can teeth grinding and, sometimes, missing back teeth that allow the bite to collapse and deepen over time. Understanding the cause helps us plan the most effective correction for your particular case.
How We Correct an Overbite or Overjet
The right approach depends on how deep the bite is and what's causing it, and we'll always explain our reasoning clearly. Overjet or overbite can both be corrected with orthodontics. Orthodontics can either be removable like clear aligners or fixed such as braces.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
For many overbite cases, Invisalign works beautifully . The clear, removable aligners gradually reposition the teeth and help correct the depth of the bite, discreetly and comfortably. Because Invisalign moves teeth in a controlled, planned sequence, it's well suited to improving how your teeth meet, not just how they look.
Fixed Braces for Complex Cases
Where an overbite is severe or involves significant jaw differences, fixed braces — sometimes alongside other treatments — may be more appropriate. We'll be honest with you about which option will give the best, most stable result.
Protecting the Result
Once your bite is corrected, a retainer holds everything in place , and if grinding contributes to the problem, a night guard may be recommended to protect your teeth going forward.
What to Expect From Treatment
We begin with a full assessment of your bite, not just your teeth, because correcting an overbite is about how everything works together. With Invisalign we can often preview your projected result before you commit. You'll receive a clear, honest explanation of the recommended approach, the timeframe and the cost, along with finance options to help spread it. Our goal is a bite that looks great and functions properly for the long term.
Book a Free Invisalign Consultation in Leicester
If you have a deep or excessive overbite — whether it's bothering you cosmetically or causing wear and discomfort — it's very treatable, and correcting it protects your teeth and jaw for years to come.
Want to know your options? Book your free Invisalign consultation at Smile Serenity in Leicester — we'll assess your bite, explain what's possible, and show you what your result could look like. Book online or call our friendly team on 0116 4030109
