Many people confuse deepbite and overjet, but they’re two distinct bite issues that affect your teeth and jaw in different ways. Understanding the difference is the first step toward getting the right orthodontic treatment.
What Is a Deepbite?
Deepbite is when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively (vertical overlap). This condition in some cases may also be referred to as an “overbite,” though the clinical term is deepbite. Overbite may also be used to describe a less intense deep bite.
Deepbite is usually caused by a mismatch in jaw size or tooth positioning. It can lead to worn-down lower teeth, jaw discomfort, and difficulty chewing. In some cases, it may also contribute to speech issues or gum trauma.
Deepbite is common in both children and adults and can appear with or without crowding of the teeth.
Learn more about this issue on our deep bite page.
What Is an Overjet?
Overjet refers to the horizontal projection of the upper front teeth beyond the lower front teeth. This condition is commonly known as “buck teeth.”
Overjet can develop due to genetics, jaw growth discrepancies, or childhood habits like thumb sucking or prolonged dummy use. It can affect speech and chewing, and increases the risk of trauma to the front teeth, especially during falls or contact sports.
Unlike deepbite, overjet is often more noticeable from a side profile because the upper teeth push forward past the lower teeth.
Learn more on our overjet page.
Key Differences Between Deep Bite and Overjet
Deepbite involves vertical overlap. Overjet involves horizontal projection.
Attribute | Deepbite | Overjet |
| Type of misalignment | Vertical overlap | Horizontal projection |
| Appearance | Upper teeth cover lower teeth | Upper teeth stick out over lower teeth |
| Common causes | Jaw/tooth size mismatch | Genetics, thumb sucking, jaw shape |
| Risk factors | Tooth wear, jaw pain, chewing problems | Speech issues, trauma risk |
| Visual cue | Upper teeth hide lower teeth when biting | Upper teeth push forward past lowers |
Can You Have Both a Deepbite and an Overjet?
Yes, it’s possible to have both deepbite and overjet at the same time. In these cases, the upper front teeth protrude forward (overjet) while also overlapping the lower teeth vertically (deepbite).
This combination can affect both function and appearance, and the severity may vary from person to person. A full orthodontic assessment is needed to understand your bite pattern and determine the most effective treatment plan.
Why It’s Important to Treat These Conditions
Both deepbite and overjet can affect oral function, comfort, and long-term dental health. Left untreated, they can lead to more serious complications over time.
- Deepbite can cause excessive wear on lower teeth, jaw strain, and difficulties with chewing.
- Overjet may affect speech clarity and increase the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth.
Early diagnosis and treatment help prevent these issues from worsening and make it easier to achieve long-term bite stability and comfort.
How Orthodontics Can Fix Deepbite and Overjet
Both deepbite and overjet can be treated with a range of orthodontic solutions, depending on the severity of the issue and the patient’s age. Many treatments work effectively for both conditions, while some are more targeted to specific bite types.
LightForce Braces
These 3D-printed braces are custom made for each tooth, offering precise and efficient treatment, especially useful for correcting deepbite with comfort and accuracy.
Braces
Braces are highly effective for treating both deepbite and overjet.
- Damon metal braces use self-ligating brackets to reduce friction and speed up treatment, especially helpful for deep vertical overlap.
- Clear braces offer a more discreet option with similar effectiveness.
Clear Aligners (Invisalign & Spark)
Clear aligners like Invisalign and Spark are suitable for mild cases of both deepbite and overjet. They’re removable, nearly invisible, and custom-designed to move teeth gradually and precisely.
Jaw Surgery
In cases where overjet is caused by severe jaw misalignment, surgical intervention may be required to reposition the upper or lower jaw. This is typically recommended when orthodontic appliances alone can’t correct the bite.
Other Orthodontic Appliances
For younger patients, appliances like expanders or headgear may be used to guide jaw growth and reduce the severity of deepbite or overjet before braces or aligners are introduced.
At Gullotta Orthodontics, we tailor every treatment plan to your specific needs and goals. Whether you’re managing deepbite, overjet, or both, we’ll help you choose the right solution and support you every step of the way.
Not Sure Which One You Have? Gullotta Orthodontics Can Help.
If you’re unsure whether you have a deepbite, overjet, or both, our team at Gullotta Orthodontics can help. We’ll assess your bite, explain what’s happening, and recommend a treatment plan that fits your needs.
Book a consultation at our Gold Coast clinic to take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
