Upper or lower teeth?
The classic description concerns the lower arch.
← All explanationsCurve of Spee
Why do the lower chewing surfaces form a curve?
The curve of Spee describes the curvature of the lower dental arch in side view. In the classical description, its dental portion starts at the lower canine cusp and follows the cheek-side cusps of the premolars and molars. Its depth is considered when assessing the bite.
For training & practice ↓
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Choose a view
View from the side
A fine line starts at the lower canine cusp and follows the outer cusps of the premolars and molars. The illustration shows the dental portion of the classical curve of Spee.
One part of the bite
The curve is assessed together with incisor overlap, tooth positions and jaw relationships. A line alone is not a diagnosis.
No universal target
Whether a change is appropriate depends on the complete findings. A flattened line in an illustration is not a treatment target for everyone.
Read the full explanation
View from the side
A fine line starts at the lower canine cusp and follows the outer cusps of the premolars and molars. The illustration shows the dental portion of the classical curve of Spee.
One part of the bite
The curve is assessed together with incisor overlap, tooth positions and jaw relationships. A line alone is not a diagnosis.
No universal target
Whether a change is appropriate depends on the complete findings. A flattened line in an illustration is not a treatment target for everyone.
Notes on the teaching images
- Fictional teaching illustration, not a patient case or treatment result.
At a glance
A disease?
Initially, it is an anatomical description.
Identical in everyone?
Its depth varies.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
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Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.
Often confused
Curve of Spee and dental arch
Dental arch usually refers to the arrangement seen from above. The curve of Spee describes curvature in side view.
Quick answers
Is a curve of Spee normal?
Curvature of the lower dental arch is an anatomical description. Its functional or treatment significance needs individual assessment.
Is it the same as a deep bite?
No. A deep bite concerns vertical overlap of the lower incisors by the upper incisors. The curve of Spee describes the side-view profile of lower chewing surfaces; the findings can be related.
Must the curve always become completely flat?
No. Planned tooth positions must fit function and the other findings. There is no single line that serves as a target for everybody.
At the practice
For the appointment
You can bring this question to your appointment:
What role does the curve of Spee play in my bite?
An examination can clarify the finding and any need for referral.
Arrange an assessmentAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Sagittal
- Relating to a side view or a plane running from front to back.
- Buccal cusps
- The cheek-side raised parts of posterior teeth.
Make the distinction
The dental arch usually describes the arrangement seen from above. The curve of Spee is viewed from the side. The curve of Wilson describes the transverse curvature of the chewing surfaces.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.