Although Invisalign can straighten teeth, can it also correct an overbite? In this guide to Invisalign overbite correction, you’ll learn everything you need to know.
What Exactly Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an alternative to traditional braces for some patients. Unlike conventional braces, Invisalign uses clear aligners to straighten your teeth.
The mouthpieces that athletes wear to protect their teeth are similar to Invisalign aligners. Clear aligners are less visible than metal braces.
The aligners are removable. We recommend taking them out to brush and eat, and wearing them for the number of hours each day your dentist advises.
Metal braces and their wires are fixed to your teeth for the duration of treatment, which is often around two years but varies from person to person. Some people find metal braces uncomfortable at times, and the brackets and wires can irritate the inside of the mouth.
Comfort varies between patients. For some patients, Invisalign treatment may be completed in a comparable or shorter timeframe than traditional braces, depending on individual circumstances.
What Exactly Is an Overbite?
An overbite is a dental condition in which, when the teeth are clenched and the mouth is closed, the upper teeth protrude noticeably over the lower teeth. An overbite is usually caused by:
- Thumb sucking,Â
- Tongue thrusting,Â
- Excessive use of dummies or bottles, orÂ
- Genetics.
The upper teeth often protrude over the bottom lip in people with a severe overbite (horizontal overbite). Adults who have overbites and want to straighten their teeth may be concerned about the discomfort of wearing metal braces.
Overbite Correction Using Invisalign
Clear aligners are less noticeable than metal braces, and they have gained popularity as a result. Invisalign aligners can be an effective alternative to braces for many patients, depending on the individual case.
Your dentist or orthodontist will order a series of aligners based on your 3D scan results. You come in for a review at regular intervals, usually every few weeks. In most cases, a new aligner will be provided, although you may need to stay with your current aligner at times.
On rare occasions, we may use elastic bands to help shift stubborn teeth. The elastics add pressure to help the teeth move. In rare cases, oral surgery may be required before or after treatment to address other issues such as overcrowding.
Some conditions necessitate additional orthodontic treatment to support a good result.
Traditional braces may be required to raise or lower impacted teeth before your aligner regimen can begin. Excessive tooth rotation or crowding may necessitate surgery before you start using Invisalign.
Can Invisalign Fix Other Bite Problems?
Suitability depends on the individual case and is assessed by your dentist or orthodontist.
Depending on the severity and type of bite, wearing elastics or other additional appliances may be required.
Your dentist or orthodontist will assess each case individually and recommend the most appropriate treatment option for your bite.
There is more that goes into each step, and treatment complexity varies.
 Complications of an Uncorrected OverbiteÂ
An overbite can be uncomfortable, and it can also affect the appearance of your teeth. Some people choose to correct an overbite to improve the appearance of their smile. However, keep in mind that an uncorrected overbite can also lead to various dental and health issues.
Overbites, for example, can make speech difficult. You may develop a speech impediment as a result, or you may overcompensate when articulating certain words.Â
An overbite can make chewing difficult and, in the worst cases, cause gum damage. This occurs when your lower front teeth come into contact with the gum line behind your upper front teeth, which can cause the gums to recede. Damaged gums can contribute to gum disease and tooth loss.
An overbite can also cause tooth wear and damage, as well as sleep apnoea. Another complication of an uncorrected overbite is jaw pain. Misaligned jaws can cause chronic jaw pain, headaches and temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD).
Is It Possible to Prevent Overbites?
In some cases, yes. Avoiding childhood habits such as thumb sucking and nail-biting can help reduce or prevent overbites. Early intervention can be important when genetics is involved. It is generally recommended that children have an orthodontic assessment by around age seven.
Conclusion
We at Mindarie-Quinns Dental are committed to supporting your oral health and helping you work towards the smile you’re after. Contact us to book a consultation.
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