Overbite is measured as the vertical distance between the upper and lower incisors (front teeth) when the jaws are closed.
More specifically, measuring overbite involves determining how much the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth vertically. Here's a breakdown:
-
Visual Assessment: Dentists often begin with a visual examination to estimate the overbite.
-
Using a Probe or Ruler: A small probe or ruler is used to measure the vertical distance from the incisal edge (biting edge) of the upper incisor to the incisal edge of the lower incisor. The measurement is typically taken in millimeters (mm).
-
Normal Overbite: A normal overbite is generally considered to be between 2-4 mm. This means the upper front teeth slightly overlap the lower front teeth.
-
Deep Overbite: A deep overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth excessively (more than 4 mm). In severe cases, the lower teeth may even touch the roof of the mouth.
-
Edge-to-Edge Bite: This occurs when the upper and lower front teeth meet edge-to-edge, with no vertical overlap.
-
Open Bite: An open bite is when there is a gap between the upper and lower front teeth when the back teeth are closed.
Factors Affecting Overbite Measurement:
- Position of the teeth: Crowding or misalignment can affect accurate measurement.
- Jaw Position: The way the jaw is positioned when biting down influences the overbite.
- Professional Expertise: Accurate measurement requires skill and experience from a dentist or orthodontist.
Why is overbite measured?
Measuring overbite is essential for:
- Diagnosis: It helps diagnose malocclusion (misalignment of teeth).
- Treatment Planning: Overbite measurement is crucial in planning orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign, to correct the bite.
- Monitoring Treatment Progress: Regular measurements track the effectiveness of the treatment.
In conclusion, measuring overbite involves determining the vertical overlap of the upper front teeth over the lower front teeth, usually in millimeters, using a probe or ruler during a dental examination. This measurement is vital for diagnosing and treating malocclusion.
