Invisalign is a popular choice to straighten teeth discreetly, but did you know that it can be used to treat specific orthodontic issues? Here, our Surrey orthodontists discuss the use of Invisalign clear aligners to treat overbites, how it works and what you should know.
Can Invisalign correct issues like overbites?
Invisalign clear aligners are a type of orthodontic treatment that can be used to address dental issues and make cosmetic changes to your smile.
One of the common reasons many patients use Invisalign is to correct & fix an overbite. Patients may seek to correct an overbite for cosmetic reasons, or because it’s causing irritation to their teeth, gums, or tongue.
Understanding Overbites
Before discussing Invisalign’s effectiveness in correcting & fixing overbites, let’s first define what an overbite is and how it can affect oral health.
An overbite is a type of malocclusion where the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth when the mouth is closed, causing the upper front teeth to protrude over the lower front teeth. Overbites can be due to genetic factors, thumb sucking, prolonged pacifier use, or poor oral habits such as tongue thrusting or mouth breathing.
If left untreated, overbites can lead to various dental issues, including:
- Difficulty chewing.
- Speech problems.
- Jaw pain and discomfort.
- Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
There are two main types of overbite:
Vertical Overbite (Overbite): A vertical overbite is a type of misalignment where the top teeth significantly overlap the bottom teeth while remaining vertical (no angle). It may also be referred to as a deep bite. Advanced malocclusion can occur in such cases and can be attributed to genetic factors, inadequate oral hygiene, or jaw misalignment.
Horizontal Overbite (Overjet): A horizontal overbite, also known as an overjet, is characterized by the upper teeth protruding excessively over the lower teeth on an angle. This horizontal misalignment between the upper and lower front teeth can lead to chewing difficulties, speech impediments, and an increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
How does Invisalign fix overbites?
Invisalign clear aligners use a series of custom-made plastic trays to gradually reposition the teeth. In comparison to traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. This makes them a popular choice for adults and teenagers seeking a discreet and convenient orthodontic treatment.
Invisalign can effectively correct overbites by using a combination of tooth movements, such as:
- Pushing the upper teeth back.
- Pulling the lower teeth forward.
- Rotating the teeth to improve alignment.
- Intruding or extruding the teeth to correct the bite.
The aligners are designed to fit snugly over the teeth, and gentle pressure is applied to move the teeth into the desired position. As you progress through each set of aligners, your teeth gradually shift until they reach their final position.
How long does Invisalign correction of an overbite take?
Just like traditional braces, the duration of treatment with Invisalign depends on the condition of your teeth and the severity of your overbite.
Here’s a breakdown:
- According to Invisalign, patients can expect to wear their aligners for up to two years.
- If you don’t wear your clear aligners for at least 22 hours each day, you will most likely need to wear them for a more extended period of time. You will need to remove your aligners for meals and teeth brushing.
- After completing the Invisalign treatment, you will need to wear a retainer to maintain your teeth’s new alignment.
- Wearing a retainer allows your jawbone to rebuild the bone tissue necessary to keep your teeth in their new positions. Without a retainer, your teeth may shift back to their original places. Your orthodontist will decide how long you need to wear a retainer, and how many hours per day you should do so.
Ultimately, your teeth are expected to shift to their prescribed positions, giving you a new, healthy-looking smile.
Who can use Invisalign for an overbite?
Invisalign is suitable for most people with overbites, but it may not be the best option for everyone. Your orthodontist will evaluate your overbite and determine if Invisalign is the right treatment option for you.
In general, good candidates for Invisalign overbite correction include:
- People with mild to moderate overbites.
- Adults and teenagers who want a discreet orthodontic treatment.
- People who are committed to wearing their aligners as directed.
- People with good oral hygiene habits.
If you have a severe overbite, your orthodontist may recommend traditional braces, or a combination of braces and Invisalign, to achieve the best results.
What To Consider When Using Invisalign for an Overbite?
When using Invisalign, you must remember to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours daily to ensure the success of your treatment. You will also need to maintain proper oral hygiene and clean your aligners regularly to prevent cavities from food debris. As mentioned above, you will also need to wear a retainer once your treatment is complete. These are all important things to consider before jumping into treatment with Invisalign. Speak with your orthodontist to learn more about what to expect.