Sunday bite refers to a condition where a patient with Class II malocclusion habitually postures their mandible forward.
In more detail:
- Class II Malocclusion: This is a type of malocclusion where the lower jaw (mandible) is positioned behind the upper jaw (maxilla), leading to a receding chin profile.
- Habitual Forward Posturing: To compensate for the receding lower jaw and achieve a more comfortable or esthetically pleasing bite, the individual consciously or subconsciously brings their mandible forward. This is the "Sunday bite" – a temporary, corrected bite achieved by voluntary movement. The name comes from the idea that the patient might consciously maintain this corrected posture, perhaps especially on social occasions like "Sunday" when they are more aware of their appearance.
- Difference from Pseudo Class III: It's important to differentiate Sunday bite from a pseudo Class III malocclusion. In a pseudo Class III, the patient protrudes the mandible forward, creating a reverse overjet (lower teeth positioned in front of upper teeth), which can sometimes be mistaken for a true Class III skeletal relationship.
Therefore, Sunday bite is a functional adaptation in Class II malocclusion patients, not a true skeletal relationship. The underlying skeletal discrepancy still exists.
