BiteFront page / The Issue
Bite alignment basics: how upper and lower teeth meet
Your bite is simply how your upper and lower teeth come together. Small differences can feel big.
What people mean by bite
Occlusion is the meeting of upper and lower teeth. Dentists look at how molars fit, how front teeth overlap, and whether the jaw shifts to find a comfortable spot.
Common patterns
- Crowding: teeth compete for space.
- Spacing: gaps between teeth.
- Overbite / underbite / crossbite: front-to-back or side-to-side mismatches.
Why it can matter
An uneven bite can wear enamel unevenly, make chewing tiring, or pair with jaw muscle strain. Not every imperfect bite needs treatment.
Questions for a visit
- Is my bite causing wear or discomfort?
- What are watchful waiting vs treatment options?
- What would change if we did nothing for a year?
General information only. Occlusivo is not a dental or medical provider and this is not dental or medical advice. Talk with your own dentist about your situation. In an emergency, call 911.