Edge-to-edge bite: Definition, symptoms & treatment

Stress on the biting surfaces

Jaw strain

Uneven wear on the front teeth

Genetics: Jaw size, tooth size, and dental arch width can be inherited. If a parent had a bite issue, you might be predisposed to an edge-to-edge bite.

Childhood habits: Thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use can push teeth forward or alter jaw development. Tongue, thrusting (pressing the tongue against teeth when swallowing), and chronic mouth breathing may also disrupt normal tooth alignment. Additionally, early tooth loss can interfere with natural eruption patterns, causing teeth to shift and meet edge-to-edge.

Skeletal and jaw growth issues: Narrow jaws or underdeveloped arches can prevent proper overlap. Some people naturally have a lower jaw that is slightly forward, contributing to an edge-to-edge bite. Severe skeletal discrepancies may also cause related bite problems such as a deep bite, overbite, or overjet bite.

Dental alignment and tooth eruption factors: Crowded, misaligned, or mis-erupted teeth can prevent the correct overlap of upper and lower teeth. Worn-down front teeth may remove natural overlap, creating an edge-to-edge bite.

Trauma or dental work: Injuries affecting jaw development or poorly aligned restorations (crowns, bridges) may cause teeth to meet directly on their edges.

Tooth damage: The front teeth bear the brunt of misalignment, typically causing accelerated enamel wear, chipping or cracking, and sensitivity due to enamel loss.

Jaw pain and TMJ issues: Direct contact between upper and lower front teeth can strain the jaw muscles and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), causing jaw discomfort or soreness, clicking or popping sounds, headaches, and muscle tension.

Chewing and biting difficulties: An edge-to-edge bite can make it difficult to bite into foods like apples or sandwiches, leading to inefficient chewing.

Gum and periodontal problems: Extra pressure on front teeth can cause gum recession and soft tissue trauma. Misaligned bite forces can also increase the risk of periodontal disease over time.

Aesthetic concerns: Worn teeth may appear shorter, resulting in a flattened smile. Uneven front teeth or jaw misalignment can also make people feel self-conscious about their appearance.

Mild: Slight edge-to-edge contact with minimal discomfort or wear.

Moderate: Noticeable wear and occasional jaw pain.

Severe: Significant enamel loss, cracked teeth, jaw dysfunction, and possibly requiring surgical correction.

Traditional braces: Braces gradually move teeth into correct alignment, restoring natural overlap and protecting the biting edges. Braces are effective for moderate to severe cases.

Functional appliances/Growth modification: For children whose jaws are still growing, functional appliances can help guide jaw development to prevent worsening bite problems. Palate expanders and growth modification devices such as Bionators are effective in cases like these.

Orthodontic surgery: Severe skeletal causes, such as underdeveloped upper jaws or overdeveloped lower jaws, may require surgery. This is often combined with orthodontic treatment to achieve the best long-term results.

Dental restorations: Restoring worn front teeth with bonding veneers or crowns may be needed after bite correction. Occlusal adjustment can smooth out uneven contact points and prevent further damage.

Clear aligners: Clear aligners provide a discreet and effective way to correct mild to moderate edge-to-edge bite cases. They gradually realign your teeth. and bite over the course of a prescribed treatment duration, and can make a significant difference while remaining entirely unintrusive.

Persistent jaw pain, headaches, or TMJ clicking.

Chipped, cracked, or excessively worn front teeth.

Difficulty biting or chewing properly.

Cosmetic concerns about the smile or jaw alignment.

Evidence of gum recession around your front teeth.

Using a nightguard if you have bruxism.

Practicing proper chewing habits and avoiding very hard foods.

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene habits (regular brushing, flossing, etc.)

Regular dental checkups and cleanings.