OVERBITE Meaning and
Definition
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An overbite is a common dental condition characterized by the misalignment of the upper and lower teeth, in which the upper teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth when the jaws are closed. This condition occurs when the upper front teeth protrude forward, extending vertically beyond the lower front teeth. Overbites can vary in severity, ranging from mild to severe, and may be categorized as dental or skeletal overbites, depending on the root cause.
A dental overbite is caused by irregular positioning of the teeth, typically due to factors such as genetics, thumb-sucking during childhood, improper oral habits, or the prolonged use of pacifiers. On the other hand, a skeletal overbite is primarily caused by an abnormal jaw relationship, often resulting from genetic factors or developmental issues during growth and maturation.
Symptoms associated with an overbite can include difficulty in pronouncing certain sounds, discomfort or pain in the jaw, excessive wear and tear on the teeth, increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and an unappealing or self-conscious smile. Treatment options for addressing an overbite may involve orthodontic procedures such as braces, retainers, or clear aligners, as well as corrective jaw surgery in severe cases.
If left untreated, an overbite can lead to further oral health problems, including difficulty in chewing, speaking, and oral hygiene maintenance. Therefore, seeking professional dental care and considering appropriate treatment options are essential to improve both the aesthetic appearance and functionality of the teeth and jaws.
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The overlapping of the lower incisor teeth by the upper.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Top Common Misspellings for OVERBITE *
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Other Common Misspellings for OVERBITE
Etymology of OVERBITE
The word "overbite" is formed from combining the prefix "over-" and the noun "bite".
The prefix "over-" in English generally indicates excess, surpassing, or superiority. In the case of "overbite", it implies that the upper teeth extend beyond or cover a greater portion of the lower teeth when the mouth is closed.
The noun "bite" is derived from the Old English word "bītan", which means "to bite" or "to chew". It retains a similar meaning in the context of dental terminology, referring to the way upper and lower teeth come together when closing the mouth.
Therefore, "overbite" literally means a condition where the upper teeth extend beyond the normal or desired alignment over the lower teeth when biting or closing the mouth.
Similar spelling words for OVERBITE
- overbold,
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- overprint,
- overfield,
- overpraise,
- overbay,
- overboil,
- overby,
- over-refine,
- overview,
- overbey,
- overbusy,
- overprotect,
- overbeck,
- overbear,
- overbid,
- overburden,
- overbearing,
- overripe,
- overfed.
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