At a glance
- Overjet is how far the upper front teeth sit in front of the lower teeth. Overbite is how much they overlap vertically.
- Causes include jaw growth, the position of the teeth and habits such as thumb-sucking.
- A large overjet can make the front teeth more vulnerable to injury in an accident.
- Treatment may involve fixed braces, aligners or, in growing children, functional appliances. Some adults need jaw surgery alongside braces.
- Some under-18s qualify for NHS orthodontic treatment depending on severity. SW3 Dental is a private practice; eligible under-18s may be able to have NHS orthodontics at our Croydon practice.
Making sense of your bite
“Buck teeth” and a “deep bite” are common reasons people visit an orthodontist. In this video, Dr Sarah Sadek explains how overjet and overbite differ, what causes them and how they can be treated.
The right approach depends on your age, how your jaws line up and what you would like to achieve. An examination with X-rays or scans is needed before your options can be confirmed.
Your questions answered
How do overjet and overbite differ?
Overjet is the horizontal distance the upper front teeth stick out beyond the lower ones. Overbite is how far the upper front teeth overlap the lower ones vertically.
Can clear aligners correct an overbite?
Aligners can treat some bite problems, often with elastics. Whether they suit you depends on your bite, which we assess at a consultation.
Can overjet be treated in adults?
Yes. Many adults are treated with braces or aligners. Where the jaws are the main cause, jaw surgery combined with braces may be recommended.
Save on treatment with an SW3 Dental plan
Student Smile members get 15% off all treatments, including aligners and braces. Smile for Life plan members get 10% off private treatment, including aligners. Both plans also cover your check-ups and hygiene visits.
Student plans from £12.95/month → Practice plans from £14.95/month →
12-month minimum term. Student plans need a valid student card. The SW3 Essentials plan discount does not include aligners; full details and exclusions are in the terms. Student terms · Practice plan terms.
Seeing us in Chelsea
SW3 Dental is on the first floor at 295 King's Road, London SW3 5EP, a short bus ride from Sloane Square and within walking distance of South Kensington station. Call 020 3474 6302 or book online.
In this video
Dr Sarah Sadek
Specialist Orthodontist & Clinical Director
GDC No. 114943 · Chelsea · Waterloo · Croydon