Overbite is defined as what?

• A. Vertical overlap of posterior teeth
• B. Horizontal overlap of anterior teeth
• C. Vertical overlap of anterior teeth
• D. Horizontal overlap of posterior teeth

Answer: (C)

Overbite describes how far the upper front teeth vertically cover the lower front teeth when the jaws are closed. It’s a vertical relationship and involves the anterior teeth. The correct definition is the vertical overlap of the anterior teeth. The horizontal overlap of the anterior teeth is what we call overjet, while any reference to posterior teeth isn’t what overbite measures. In clinical terms, overbite can be normal, increased (deep bite), or reduced/open bite if there’s little to no vertical overlap.