March 24, 2026

The Complete Guide to Bite Correction: Types of Bite Problems, Causes, and Treatments

Bite problems, otherwise known as malocclusions, are a fairly common orthodontic problem across the globe. Despite their widespread prevalence, there are still numerous misconceptions and misunderstandings about bite problems. What causes them? Are there different types, and more importantly, how does bite correction work? We’ll explain all that and more below.

What is a Bite Problem?

Bite problems are a broad category of orthodontic issues that affect millions of people across the United States. Essentially, a bite problem is any improper coming together of the upper and lower teeth. With such a broad definition, it’s no surprise that many people have a malocclusion without ever knowing it or needing bite correction. But some types of bite problems demand more attention and understanding.

Types of Bite Problems

One important distinction in types of bite problems is between an overbite vs. underbite. These are two of the more common types of malocclusions orthodontists treat, but they aren’t entirely obvious. But simply understanding what makes a malocclusion an overbite vs. an underbite is only part of understanding all types of bite problems.

1. Overbite: An overbite, also called a deep bite, is when the front upper teeth cover the front lower teeth beyond what is typically expected. The upper teeth may go so far down that they bite into the gums. The lower teeth may also bite into the palate.
2. Underbite: An underbite is the opposite of an overbite—the lower front teeth and jaw protrude further than the upper jaw. The lower front teeth then cover the upper front teeth.
3. Crossbite: A crossbite means that there’s a misalignment of teeth and most likely the jaws. There are posterior crossbites, where the upper back teeth land inside the lower front teeth when the person bites. Less common are anterior crossbites, where the upper front teeth land behind the front lower teeth when closing down to bite.
4. Open bite: An open bite describes a type of bite problem where one group of teeth does not touch when another group does. For example, the back teeth may touch, but the front teeth do not overlap, and vice versa.
5. Midline discrepancy: A midline discrepancy, or misplaced midline, is a bite problem where the upper teeth are not aligned with the lower teeth, either because one or both are off-center from the face.
6. Crowding: When there’s insufficient space for all a person’s teeth in their jaw, it causes crowding. Teeth may become twisted, protrude, overlap, or otherwise fall out of alignment with the rest of the teeth.
7. Spacing: Unlike crowding, spacing occurs when teeth do not fill the space, leaving gaps between teeth.

Why Bite Correction Matters for Oral Health and Beyond

Many bite problems impact the ability to properly and thoroughly clean your teeth. Going without treatment for a bite problem can allow plaque and germs to build up, leading to gingivitis and gum disease. Not getting bite correction treatment can impact jaw growth and stability. Beyond the impact of oral health on overall health, bite problems can create mental health complications due to their cosmetic effects.

What Causes Bite Problems?

Depending on the type of bite problem, there may be one or multiple causes behind it. For all the types of bite problems mentioned above, genetics can play a significant role in causing the malocclusion in the first place. However, it’s not the only cause that creates a bite problem.

• Childhood habits: Habits like prolonged thumb sucking, mouth breathing during early development, and using pacifiers or bottles beyond infancy can lead to malocclusions like overbites, crossbites, and open bites.
• Youth Experiences: Beyond habits, experiences like injuries, losing baby teeth prematurely or late, uneven growth between the upper and lower jaw, or even tumors can create different types of bite problems.
• Injuries: Lost teeth, especially the loss of permanent teeth, can create malocclusions like spacing. Having teeth that are too large or too small for the jaw can create crowding or spacing issues as well.

Risks of Leaving Bite Problems Untreated

As already mentioned, getting bite correction treatment is essential for maintaining good oral health. But what happens if bite problems aren’t identified or are left untreated? Going without bite correction can lead to pain, discomfort, poor oral health, and even lower self-esteem.

Bite problems can impact speech as well—especially as children learn to speak around their bite problem. They can even impact a child’s growth, as the bite problem can lead to problems eating and create malnutrition.

Another serious complication due to bite problems is TMJ disorder. People with TMJ experience headaches, neck pains, changes to their posture, and even arthritis. Getting deep bite correction or crossbite correction can help prevent or reverse conditions like TMJ.

When to See an Orthodontist

Knowing when it’s time to see an orthodontist for bite correction becomes vital when you consider the serious consequences of foregoing treatment. Of course, earlier is better than later, but is there such a thing as too early?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends bringing children in for their first orthodontic appointment at the age of 7. This allows orthodontists an opportunity to assess the current teeth and jaw, intervene if necessary, or decide if there are certain risk factors that need monitoring.

For teenagers or adults, signs of a malocclusion include consistent jaw pain, speaking issues, difficulty biting or chewing, or misaligned teeth. If you notice these, it’s time to go to the orthodontist to explore bite correction treatment options.

How Bite Problems Are Diagnosed at Atlanta Orthodontics

At Atlanta Orthodontics, we want to ensure you’re getting the best possible treatment for your smile’s unique needs. That means every bite correction treatment starts with an assessment to get the exact right diagnosis. We begin with an examination of our patient’s teeth to immediately rule out other causes. From there, photos and X-rays may be taken to get a more advanced look at the patient’s malocclusion. In some cases, an impression may be necessary to identify the problem and begin working on the proper bite correction treatment.

How Long Does Bite Correction Take?

Bite corrections aren’t one-size-fits-all affairs—in fact, every bite correction is tailored perfectly to the patient. That high degree of personalization means one person’s timetable for their deep bite correction won’t necessarily line up with another’s crossbite treatment. There are a few different factors that can impact the length of time a bite correction might require.

• Malocclusion type: The type of bite problem is a factor in the overall length of time from diagnosis to corrected bite.
• Severity: The more severe the malocclusion, the longer the treatment can take. On the mildest side, a treatment may only last a few months to a year. But more intense bite problems may require longer interventions.
• Age: As children are still growing, bite corrections are more effective. The treatment method can redirect the child’s growth rather than trying to undo completed growth, as in adults. That said, our orthodontists use the most advanced bite correction treatments possible to speed up the process for patients of all ages.

Bite Correction Treatments in Atlanta

There are various treatment options available for bite problems, and depending on our patient’s unique needs, we’ll likely recommend one of the following:

• Braces: From traditional metal to ceramic to lingual, braces are a tried and true method for many types of bite correction. Whether a deep bite correction in adults or an open bite correction for a growing child, braces work.
• Invisalign bite correction: These clear aligners offer a discreet way to achieve lasting bite correction results. Best for: deep bite correction as well as cross bite correction.
• Expanders: Expanders are used in bite correction for malocclusions like crowding and protrusion. Expanders give adult teeth enough space to come in without issue.
• Elastics: Working in combination with braces, elastics do some of the heaviest lifting in bite correction, shifting the jaw and teeth to where they need to go.
• Bite turbos / ramps: One of the best methods for deep bite correction, bite turbos encourage the jaw to move back when biting down, correcting the bite over time.
• Carriere Motion Appliance: Another important form of bite correction, the Carriere Motion appliance moves the jaws back into alignment.
• Orthognathic surgery: In some cases, orthognathic surgery provides the best method of bite correction, manually realigning the jaws for a perfect bite—and smile!

Why Choose Atlanta Orthodontics for Bite Correction

Atlanta Orthodontics has delivered outstanding patient care for over four decades because we’re a leader in techniques, technology, and transparency. We achieve transformative outcomes for our patients through clear communication from the initial consultation. We provide our diagnoses in understandable language and present all available options. Once treatment begins, each step is tailored to the patient’s unique needs and goals, all with the support of our team behind them. Experience the difference your smile and health deserve.