Deep bite

We speak of a deep bite when the upper incisors cover too much the lower ones.

Normally, coverage of 2 thirds of the length of the lower incisors is considered optimal.

The reasons can be basal or dentoalveolar. In addition to the aesthetic problems in the deep bite, also called covered bite, this condition limits the movements of the jaw, forcing it to stand further back.

This is a predisposing situation to the problems of the temporomandibular joint which can cause pain, impediments in opening or closing the mouth, or back pain, tension headache, frequent stiff neck and other disorders.

When and how to correct the deep bite:

Even from children (5-6 years) in the most serious cases and where it is indicated by interceptive therapy, in fact, by appropriately stimulating craniofacial growth, those cephalometric parameters that cause it can be modified. In these cases, even in the absence of other problems, it is advisable to intervene early with removable appliances to have the best corrective possibilities.

If, on the other hand, the dental exchange has already been completed or in any case it is late for an interceptive therapy because the growth is almost completed, it is possible to intervene with an external fixed appliance or better still internal (lingual appliance). In the most serious cases, maxillofacial surgery can be used or with the intrusion of the anterior teeth or with the extrusion of the posterior teeth.

The choice of therapy will be guided by the cephalometric analysis and the smile analysis (gummy smile or gingival smile) but it is always good to consider that the resulting therapy will in any case be a sum of the two techniques since it is not possible to apply an extraoral anchorage.

Severe deep bite with TMJ problems

Monolateral cross-bite

References: https://www3.aaoinfo.org/blog/parent-s-guide-post/glossary-of-terms/#malocclusion