Bite Problems: Overbite, Underbite, Crossbite & Open Bite

Santa Barbara & Buellton, CA

A balanced bite supports your smile, airway, and jaw health. We diagnose and treat overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites to restore comfort and function.

If your teeth don’t fit together comfortably, it’s more than a cosmetic issue — it can affect chewing, jaw health, and long-term dental stability.

Bite problems can affect the way teeth fit together, how the jaw functions, and overall oral health. Without correction, bite problems can worsen over time, leading to uneven tooth wear, gum recession, headaches, or compromised breathing.

 At Feusier Orthodontics, Dr. Feusier provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for bite issues, helping patients achieve healthier alignment, better comfort, and long-term stability.

Orthodontic intervention helps restore function and prevent long-term damage, supporting both dental and whole-body wellness.

The Process

Comprehensive
Evaluation

A digital scan, facial assessment, and bite analysis helps Dr. Feusier determine the exact type and severity of the bite issue.

Treatment
Planning

Based on age, growth stage, and alignment goals, Dr. Feusier develops a plan using braces, aligners, expanders, or combination therapy.

Active Orthodontic Correction

Appliances work to reposition teeth and guide jaw alignment, improving function and balance.

Bite
Refinement

Elastics, minor adjustments, or precision detailing ensure the bite fits comfortably and symmetrically.

Retention
Phase

Retainers maintain the corrected bite and prevent shifting over time.

Bite Problems- C

Symptoms & Indicators

Bite problems can cause strain on the jaw joint, leading to chronic discomfort, headaches, or TMJ disorders.

  • Difficulty biting or chewing
  • Teeth that do not touch properly
  • Jaw pain or clicking
  • Speech challenges
  • Mouth-breathing
  • Visible misalignment of upper and lower teeth
Bite Problems- D

Types of Bite Problems

You may have a bite problem if you notice uneven tooth contact, difficulty chewing, jaw strain, or teeth that don’t align when you close – as well as the following:

  • Overbite / Deep bite
  • Underbite
  • Crossbite
  • Open bite

What to expect

Many bite problems can be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone. In more complex cases, we guide patients carefully through each step so there are no surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age is it best to evaluate bite problems?

Age 7 is ideal for an initial orthodontic evaluation, though treatment may begin later depending on growth. Early detection helps prevent worsening bite issues.

How long does bite correction take?

Most treatments take 12–24 months, depending on the severity of the issue and the appliances used.

What can I expect after correction?

There are many benefits to a bit correction, including improved chewing, tooth stability, and reduced jaw strain and wear.

Are bite problems painful?

Not always, but they can cause jaw strain, headaches, or discomfort while chewing over time. Correcting the bite helps prevent these issues.

Can aligners fix bite problems?

Yes, many bite problems can be corrected with aligners, though complex cases may require braces or additional appliances. Dr. Feusier will recommend the best option.

Will correcting my bite change my facial appearance?

In many cases, yes—proper bite alignment can enhance facial harmony and improve jaw balance. Severe cases may show more noticeable improvements.