The vertical overlap of maxillary teeth is referred to as what?

The vertical overlap of maxillary teeth is referred to as overbite. This term describes the relationship between the upper and lower front teeth when the mouth is closed. Specifically, overbite measures how much the upper incisors overlap the lower incisors vertically.

A normal overbite is essential for proper occlusion and function, as it aids in distributing forces during biting and chewing and helps protect the underlying tissues. When measuring overbite, dentists look for an ideal range, and deviations from this can indicate developmental issues or malocclusions that may require orthodontic intervention.

Understanding the concept of overbite is fundamental in dental practice, as it relates to the overall alignment and aesthetics of the dental arch. Other terms in the choices, such as overjet, crossbite, and underbite, refer to different aspects of dental occlusion. Overjet describes the horizontal distance between the upper and lower incisors, crossbite refers to a malocclusion where upper teeth sit inside lower teeth, and underbite indicates that the lower teeth are positioned ahead of the upper teeth. Thus, recognizing the definition and implications of overbite is crucial for effective dental assessments.