Class II bite problems: assessment and treatment
Originally published
A Class II bite is a type of mismatch between the upper and lower teeth. The lower teeth sit further back in relation to the upper teeth than expected. It may involve the positions of the teeth, the relationship between the jaws, or both. An orthodontic assessment is needed to understand the particular pattern.
Is this the same as an overbite?
The terms describe different things. Overjet is the horizontal gap between the upper and lower front teeth; overbite is how far the upper front teeth overlap the lower ones vertically. A Class II bite can involve prominent upper front teeth, but these terms are not interchangeable.
Your orthodontist will examine your bite and assess the position of your jaws and teeth. Appearance alone does not show which treatment is needed.
Why does the bite develop this way?
Inherited patterns of jaw growth and the position of the teeth can contribute. Childhood habits can also affect tooth position, but it is not helpful to assume that a child’s bite is a parent’s fault. An assessment should consider the individual child rather than attributing the problem to feeding or sleeping position.
There is no single age at which every Class II bite should be treated. Your dentist can monitor development and recommend an orthodontic assessment when appropriate.
Why might treatment be recommended?
The reasons depend on the bite and the person’s concerns. They may include difficulty biting, prominent front teeth or the appearance of the teeth and profile. Your orthodontist will explain the likely benefits, limitations and risks of treatment, as well as what may happen without it.
A bite problem does not automatically mean that migraines, digestive illness or tooth decay will follow. These symptoms need their own assessment rather than a promise that braces will resolve them.
What are the treatment options?
In a growing child, a functional appliance may be used to reduce the prominence of the upper front teeth. Fixed braces may be needed afterwards to align the teeth. Treatment depends on wearing the appliance as advised, and results vary. The British Orthodontic Society explains functional appliances and why timing treatment around growth can matter.
An early assessment can help with planning, but starting treatment as young as possible is not always more effective. Adults can also have orthodontic treatment. Where the jaw relationship cannot be adequately corrected with braces alone, specialist assessment for jaw surgery may be considered, usually after growth is complete. Surgery is not necessary for every Class II bite.
How much will treatment cost?
Costs depend on the appliance, the stages of treatment and the follow-up required. See our current orthodontic fees and ask for a written plan explaining what is included.
A fee for a removable brace on one arch is not necessarily the price of a functional appliance or a complete course of Class II treatment. Your orthodontist needs to identify the appropriate treatment before quoting for it. Any surgical treatment would need separate assessment and costing.
If you are considering payment options, read the practice’s current finance information and eligibility conditions. For an initial discussion about your bite or your child’s teeth, contact us.