Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite: How Braces Fix Each Condition

When people think of braces, they often imagine straightening crooked teeth, but braces do far more than create a beautiful smile. They also correct bite problems that affect your jaw, speech, chewing ability, and long-term oral health.

In Malta, orthodontic issues like overbites, underbites, and crossbites are extremely common, and early treatment can prevent bigger complications later in life. At Drs Demajo Dental, we have created this guide that breaks down each condition, the symptoms to look for, and how braces can correct them.

What is a bite problem?

Your “bite” refers to how your upper and lower teeth meet when your mouth is closed. A proper bite allows you to chew efficiently, speak clearly, and maintain healthy jaw function. When the alignment is off, the teeth or jaws don’t meet correctly, resulting in what orthodontists call a malocclusion. Braces are one of the most effective ways to correct these issues, because they guide the teeth (and sometimes the jaw) into a healthier, functional position.

Overbite: When the Upper Teeth Stick Out Too Far

What is an overbite?

An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth. Most people have a small overbite which is considered normal. It becomes a problem when the overlap is too deep.

Signs you may have an overbite

• Upper teeth cover too much of the lower teeth
• The chin appears smaller or tucked back
  Increased risk of chipping front teeth
• Difficulty biting into food
• Jaw discomfort or clicking

How braces fix an overbite

Braces correct an overbite by:

• Aligning overcrowded teeth
• Gently moving the upper teeth back
• Bringing lower teeth slightly forward
• Correcting the jaw position (in more severe cases)

Depending on the case, orthodontists may use:

• Traditional braces
• Elastics (rubber bands)
• Clear aligners
• Bite plates or other orthodontic appliances

The outcome results in a balanced bite, improved facial profile, and reduced long-term wear on the front teeth.

Underbite: When Lower Teeth Stick Out Beyond the Upper Teeth

What is an underbite?

An underbite happens when the lower teeth extend past the upper teeth, often due to the lower jaw being too far forward or the upper jaw being too far back.

Signs of an underbite

• Lower jaw looks more prominent
• Speech difficulty (especially “s” or “th” sounds)
• Uneven tooth wear
• Difficulty biting and chewing
• Jaw strain or headaches

How braces fix an underbite

Treatment depends on whether the issue is teeth-related or jaw-related.

Braces can:

• Move the lower teeth inward
• Move upper teeth outward
• Improve the bite using elastics
• Expand the upper arch if needed

For severe jaw discrepancies, treatment may be combined with:

• Functional appliances (especially helpful for children)
• Orthognathic surgery (for adults with a large skeletal misalignment)

Outcome results in improved function, easier chewing, and reduced long-term joint problems.

Crossbite: When Some Upper Teeth Sit Inside the Lower Teeth

What is a crossbite?

A crossbite occurs when one or several upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth instead of outside. This can happen in the front (anterior crossbite) or back teeth (posterior crossbite).

Signs of a crossbite

• Jaw shifts to one side when closing
• Asymmetrical facial appearance
• Gum recession
• Chipped or worn teeth
• Difficulty chewing

How braces fix a crossbite

Braces correct crossbites by:

• Expanding the upper arch (if too narrow)
  Straightening teeth into the correct position
• Guiding the bite into proper alignment
• Using rubber bands or springs to improve tooth movement

Children often benefit from early correction because crossbites can cause the jaw to grow unevenly. Adults can still be treated effectively, it may just require a combination of braces and other appliances.

Outcome results in a balanced jaw position, healthier gums, and even tooth wear.

Why Fixing Bite Problems Matters

Many patients delay orthodontic treatment because the issue “doesn’t hurt.” However, untreated bite problems can lead to tooth wear and fractures, jaw pain, gum recession, difficulty chewing or swallowing, speech problems, and reduced self-confidence. Braces address the root cause, not just the appearance.

How to Know Which Bite Problem You Have

If you’re unsure whether you have an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, a consultation with an orthodontist is the best starting point. At Drs Demajo Dental clinics, patients in Malta receive a personalised treatment plan tailored to their bite type and lifestyle, whether that’s traditional braces, ceramic options, or clear aligner therapy.

Bite problems are more common than you might think, and correcting them can dramatically improve both your oral health and confidence. Whether you’re dealing with an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, modern orthodontic treatments offer comfortable, discreet, and highly effective solutions. If you’re considering braces, or simply want to understand your bite better, an orthodontic consultation is the best first step.

Join our orthodontics waiting list to secure your spot for treatment. You’ll be notified as soon as appointments become available.