Understanding the Different Types of Bite Problems (and How We Fix Them)

Your bite is more than just the way your teeth come together—it plays a key role in your overall oral health.

At Shine Ortho Studio, we don’t just straighten teeth—we also focus on how they fit and function. Many people seek orthodontic treatment for cosmetic reasons, but correcting bite alignment (or malocclusion) is just as important for long-term dental health. If left untreated, bite problems can lead to difficulty chewing, speaking, jaw pain, uneven tooth wear, and even TMJ disorders.

Let’s take a closer look at the most common types of bite problems and how orthodontic treatment can help correct them.

1. Overbite
An overbite happens when the upper front teeth extend too far over the lower front teeth. While a slight overbite is normal, a more significant one can lead to excessive wear on the lower teeth, jaw discomfort, or even damage to the front teeth if left untreated.

How we fix it:
Braces or clear aligners can gradually shift the position of the teeth and jaws. In some cases, we may use rubber bands or special appliances to help move the lower jaw forward.

2. Underbite
In an underbite, the lower teeth extend past the upper teeth. This is often caused by a mismatch in jaw size or position and can affect speech, chewing, and facial symmetry.

How we fix it:
Early intervention can be especially helpful for underbites. Treatment may include braces, aligners, or orthopedic appliances to guide jaw growth in younger patients. In severe cases, jaw surgery may be recommended in adulthood.

3. Crossbite
A crossbite occurs when some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth instead of outside. This can involve the front teeth, back teeth, or both. Crossbites can lead to jaw misalignment, tooth wear, and gum recession.

How we fix it:
We often use expanders to widen the upper jaw, followed by braces or aligners to shift teeth into proper alignment. Early treatment is especially effective in correcting crossbites.

4. Open Bite
An open bite means the upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed, often leaving a noticeable gap. This can affect speech and make biting into food more difficult.

How we fix it:
Braces or aligners can help bring the teeth into contact. For open bites caused by habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, we may also recommend habit-correction appliances or therapy alongside orthodontic treatment.

5. Deep Bite
Also known as a deep overbite, this occurs when the top front teeth excessively overlap the bottom front teeth, sometimes causing the lower teeth to touch the roof of the mouth. This can lead to tooth wear, gum irritation, and jaw discomfort.

How we fix it:
Braces or aligners are used to reposition the teeth and reduce the vertical overlap. In some cases, bite-opening appliances may be used to support long-term correction.

6. Spacing or Crowding
Though not bite problems in the traditional sense, crowded or overly spaced teeth can affect bite function. Crowding makes it harder to clean between teeth, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease, while spacing can impact alignment and aesthetics.

How we fix it:
Orthodontic treatment, such as braces or aligners, is used to gently guide teeth into ideal spacing and alignment. In cases of severe crowding, we may recommend tooth extractions.

Getting the Right Treatment Plan for You
At Shine Ortho Studio, every smile is unique—and so is every treatment plan. When you come in for your consultation, we’ll evaluate your bite using a combination of photos, X-rays, and a digital scan of your teeth. Then, we’ll create a personalized plan to correct alignment, improve function, and help you feel confident in your smile.

Wondering if you or your child has a bite problem? Let’s take a look together.

📞 Contact Shine Ortho Studio today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more functional smile!

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