An overbite is one of the most recognizable dental disorders, but it is also one of the easiest to correct. Orthodontists often use braces to fix overbites, but they are just among the many correction methods. Recently, Invisalign has emerged as another excellent alternative for treating teeth deformity and jaw misalignment.
If you’re asking, “Can Invisalign fix an overbite?” you’ve come to the right place. This blog addresses the most common queries regarding overbite correction using Invisalign. Specifically, we answer the following questions:
- What are the different types of overbite?
- What are the problems that overbites cause?
- Can an overbite be fixed with Invisalign?
- How long does it take to straighten teeth with clear aligners?
The information presented in this article will help you make informed decisions about overbite treatment. So, let’s get into it!
Different Types of an Overbite
There are two main types of overbites: horizontal and vertical. Horizontal overbites occur when the top teeth jut out in front of the bottom teeth, while vertical overbites are cases where the top teeth significantly overlap the bottom teeth. They are both caused by skeletal and dental issues. Skeletal overbites are caused by jaw misalignment. On the other hand, dental overbites involve issues with teeth placement.
It is essential to determine the type and cause of the overbite because the assessment results become the basis of the treatment procedure.
Problems That Overbites Cause
Seeking orthodontic treatment for overbites is not just for aesthetic purposes. Overbites also cause several physical problems that can significantly affect an individual’s health. Potential issues include:
- Chewing difficulties
- Jaw pain
- Breathing challenges
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
- Speech problems
- Headaches and migraine
Most people with overbites are born with the condition since it’s hereditary. But they can also be caused by prolonged childhood habits such as thumb-sucking or pacifiers. No matter the cause, overbites can harm people’s lives. Therefore, seeking treatment at the earliest time is essential to achieve the best results.
Can an Overbite Be Fixed With Invisalign?
Invisalign is a clear aligner that has become a preferred choice for orthodontic treatments in recent years. It effectively straightens the teeth without using brackets and wires. Since it’s clear, it can barely be seen, giving the wearer a lot more confidence than wearing braces.
Many ask, can Invisalign fix an overbite? The short answer is yes.
The Invisalign system combines the science of orthodontics with highly advanced 3D technology. The aligners are designed to move the teeth slowly, just like braces. But instead of brackets and wires, the patient receives clear, customized, and removable trays for teeth that are more discrete. Each tray is designed to fit the teeth at every stage of the treatment. As the treatment progresses, the trays are adjusted to place pressure on the teeth to push them toward the straighter final position. The additional use of rubber bands can help correct overbite caused by a deficient lower jaw. Combined, the overbite will diminish.
How Long Does It Take To Straighten Teeth With Aligners?
The amount of time it takes to see results with Invisalign treatment depends on the severity of the overbite condition, but the expected timeframe is between 6 months to 2 years. The aligners must only be taken out during meals and when brushing your teeth. Aside from those occasions, they must be worn at all times. Taking out the aligners for more than two hours daily only prolongs the correction process.
Age has a factor in the length of the treatment. Younger people are more amenable to the realignment of teeth since their jaw is still developing. This means they are more likely to wear Invisalign for a shorter period. In contrast, grown adults already have fully formed bones that don’t adapt to overbite treatment easily. Therefore, the overbite treatment for adults is longer.
After the Invisalign treatment is complete, orthodontists will recommend wearing retainers to ensure the teeth stay in their new alignment. The retainer gives the jaw enough time to produce the bone tissue it needs to anchor teeth in place. The orthodontist will be the one to determine how long the retainer is required, which depends on the severity of the overbite case.
Get The Smile of Your Dreams with our Orthodontists
An overbite is more than just an aesthetic concern. If left uncorrected, misaligned teeth can lead to tooth damage and jaw pain. If you are thinking about getting Invisalign to correct your own or your child’s overbite, Our Orthodontists are more than happy to accommodate you.
Our Orthodontists create a personalized treatment plan for all of our clients. First, we use a 3D Image Itero intra-oral scan to determine your treatment needs before making custom aligners. Then, we work closely with Invisalign to create a series of clear custom trays specific to your needs.
Find one of our orthodontists near you!
Source: https://aosmiles.com/can-an-overbite-be-fixed-with-invisalign/