What Is an Overbite and How Is It Fixed?

The short answer

A small amount of overlap can be normal. An overbite becomes a concern when the upper front teeth cover too much of the lower front teeth or when the bite is causing day-to-day problems.

People sometimes use overbite and overjet like they mean the same thing, but they are different:

• Overbite is the vertical overlap. The top front teeth cover the bottom front teeth.
• Overjet is the horizontal distance. The top front teeth stick out farther in front of the bottom front teeth.

Treatment depends on the person. A licensed orthodontist may discuss:

• metal braces
• ceramic braces
• clear aligners
• elastics or other bite-correcting tools used with treatment
• retainers after active treatment

There is no one fix for everyone. The best option depends on the bite, age, tooth movement needed, and how closely the patient can follow instructions. If you want a simple comparison of options, see braces vs clear aligners and treatments.

What an overbite can look and feel like

Some people notice an overbite because of appearance. Others notice it because of function. For example, they may feel like their lower front teeth disappear behind the top teeth when they close their mouth.

Possible signs people talk about include:

• the top front teeth cover a lot of the lower front teeth
• the bite feels deep or tight in front
• front teeth seem to hit the gums or the backs of other teeth
• uneven tooth wear
• trouble biting into some foods cleanly
• jaw discomfort or clenching, though these problems can have many causes

An overbite can be mild, moderate, or more severe. It can happen in children, teens, and adults. Sometimes it is mostly about tooth position. Sometimes jaw growth and bite pattern also matter.

A few things may play a role:

• genetics and natural jaw shape
• crowded or shifted teeth
• childhood oral habits in some cases
• loss of back teeth or changes in bite support over time

This is still not medical or dental advice. An online article cannot tell you how serious a bite issue is. A licensed orthodontist needs to examine the teeth and bite in person before recommending a plan.

How orthodontists may fix an overbite

The goal is usually to improve how the teeth fit together, not just how they look. The exact plan can be different from person to person.

Common treatment paths

1. Braces
Braces can move teeth in very controlled ways and are often used when the bite needs detailed correction. Learn more about metal braces or ceramic braces.

2. Clear aligners
Clear aligners may work for some overbite cases, especially when the treatment plan and follow-up are appropriate for that person. They can be a good fit for adults and teens who will wear them as directed. Read more about clear aligners.

3. Bite-correcting add-ons
A licensed orthodontist may use elastics, attachments, or other tools along with braces or aligners to help improve the bite.

4. Retainers after treatment
After active treatment, retainers help hold the teeth in their new positions. Retainers are a normal part of long-term upkeep, not an optional extra for many patients. See retainers.

Important things to know

• Treatment time varies a lot. Nobody can honestly promise a fixed timeline without an exam.
• The "best" option is not always the least visible one.
• Success often depends on follow-through, especially with removable aligners and retainers.
• Mail-order / at-home aligner kits may sound simple, but bite correction can be complex. Many families prefer an in-person exam with a licensed orthodontist before starting any tooth movement.

Only a licensed orthodontist can say whether a specific bite can be treated with braces, clear aligners, or another approach.

What it may cost in the US

Costs are usually one of the first questions families ask. The honest answer is that there is no single price for fixing an overbite.

Typical US treatment ranges are:

• metal braces: about $3,000-$7,000
• ceramic braces: about $4,000-$8,000
• clear aligners: about $3,000-$8,000
• retainers: about $100-$500 per set

These are estimates, not quotes. The real price depends on:

• how complex the bite is
• how long treatment may take
• where you live
• what the orthodontist includes in the fee
• your dental insurance

If you have insurance, check whether your plan includes orthodontic benefits. Many plans have a lifetime orthodontic maximum, often around $1,000-$3,000. That means the plan may help up to that amount, not forever and not for every item. Our orthodontic insurance guide and costs page can help you ask better questions.

Before you start, ask for the plan and price in writing. Make sure you understand:

• total estimated fee
• down payment and monthly payment options
• what happens if treatment takes longer than expected
• whether retainers are included
• what replacement aligners or broken appliance visits may cost

What to do next

If you think you or your child may have an overbite, here is a simple next step list:

1. Book an in-person orthodontic consultation. This is the only way to learn what the bite issue actually is and what options make sense.
2. Compare more than one office if needed. You are allowed to ask questions and take your time.
3. Ask plain-language questions. For example: What kind of bite problem do you see? What are the treatment choices? What is the estimated total cost? What is included?
4. Verify the orthodontist's license yourself. That is always a smart step.
5. Confirm everything in writing before starting. You choose who to see and whether to move forward.

If you want help finding a local licensed orthodontist, you can use get matched for free. AlignLoom is not a dental office or healthcare provider. We do not diagnose or treat. We simply help families and adults compare options with licensed orthodontists near them. If you want tips for comparing offices, read how to choose an orthodontist.