Ideally, your teeth should sit in your mouth with the upper arch slightly wider than the lower arch, and your upper front teeth's edges aligning with the top of your lower lip when biting down.
Here's a breakdown of what constitutes a healthy and functional bite:
- Arch Alignment: The upper teeth should overlap the lower teeth slightly. This is because the upper arch is naturally a bit wider than the lower arch.
- Anterior Guidance: When you bite down, the edges of your upper front teeth should ideally align with the top of your lower lip.
- Overbite: A slight overbite is normal, meaning the upper front teeth cover about one-third of the lower front teeth.
- Functionality: Teeth should meet evenly, distributing biting forces properly and avoiding excessive wear or strain on individual teeth or the jaw joints (temporomandibular joints, or TMJ).
- Gum Display: While not directly related to the bite, an excessive display of gum tissue when smiling ("gummy smile") might indicate that the upper teeth are longer than average. This is more of an aesthetic consideration.
Having a proper bite is important for:
- Chewing efficiency: Allows you to properly break down food.
- Clear speech: Correct tooth alignment contributes to proper pronunciation.
- Preventing dental problems: Reduces the risk of excessive tooth wear, jaw pain, and TMJ disorders.
- Aesthetics: Contributes to a pleasing smile.
It's crucial to consult with a dentist or orthodontist to assess your individual bite and address any potential issues. They can diagnose and recommend appropriate treatment options, such as braces, aligners, or other orthodontic appliances, if needed.
