Should your top teeth overlap bottom slightly?

In an ideal bite, the top (maxillary) teeth slightly overlap the bottom (mandibular) teeth. This is known as an overbite.

On average, the maxillary incisors (front teeth) should overlap the mandibular incisors by 2-4 millimeters. This slight overlap helps the teeth to function properly and ensures that the upper teeth don’t protrude too far forward or the lower teeth don’t protrude too far backward.

An overbite that is too deep or excessive may cause problems such as difficulty biting or speaking, discomfort, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. On the other hand, an overbite that is too small or nonexistent can also lead to dental problems such as excessive wear of the teeth or shifting of the teeth out of proper alignment.

Therefore, it's important to maintain a proper amount of overbite to ensure good dental health and function. If you're concerned about the position of your teeth or your bite, it's best to consult with a dental professional for evaluation and treatment.