An overbite is a dental condition where the upper teeth noticeably cover the lower teeth. Far from uncommon, most people have some degree of an overbite, however for most individuals it is not serious enough to require professional dental attention. An overbite is just one type of dental malocclusion, like its exact opposite, the underbite.

Common causes for an overbite are varied. A child who sucks his or her thumb has a much greater chance of developing an overbite. Unfortunately for some, overbites are often hereditary, passed on genetically from parents to their child. Although it seems like a minor aesthetic flaw, an overbite can lead to a large number of problems if it is serious enough to require treatment.

The presence of an overbite can affect a person's bite which can lead to jaw pain and increased wear and tear on the tooth enamel. Increased wear on tooth enamel can, in turn, make one more susceptible to tooth decay and increase the chance of developing a serious gum disease. Additionally, an overbite can lead to a speech impediment, due to the abnormal tooth structure. A more serious overbite can even change the structure and appearance of the afflicted individual's face.

Though an overbite has the potential to be a serious health and physical problem, it can be easily identified and treated. During a routine dental exam, a dentist should easily be able to detect whether a person has any malloclusion such as an overbite or underbite. After the degree of overbite is determined, the most widely practiced treatment is a simple set of braces. The braces, and rubber bands, are used to pull the upper teeth back, correcting the bite. More serious malocclusions may require tooth extraction, or in the most extreme cases, surgery to pull back the jaw to accommodate the upper teeth.

As is the case with many health problems, the sooner an overbite is identified the easier it will be to treat. The best time to correct an overbite is during childhood, when the jaw is still developing. That being the case, it is important for parents to plan a trip to the dentist for their children to determine if any corrective action needs to be taken. However, there is no time limit to correct an overbite. An adult will still be able to receive treatments, but since the jaw has already developed it will be a longer process.