Deep bite: Treatment options and challenges

While deep overbite typically accompanies all classes of malocclusion, it is singled out in this article as the prominent component of malocclusion. We review the evidence-based treatment of deep overbite, mostly of lower tier on the evidence hierarchy. Accordingly, challenges to treatment emerge with the lack of firm guidelines for treatment. The main concerns relate to long-term stability and facial esthetics. Treatment options in children focus on possibilities of growth modification and avoidance of more severe development of the condition. Camouflage, surgical options, and compromised outcome are considered in the non-growing patient. We illustrate the various treatment strategies, including maxillary incisor esthetic differential extrusion, along with the side effects that may occur and ways to avoid them. The need for structured controlled trials and associated formulation of guidelines is demonstrated.