Can Invisalign Fix an Overbite?
If you’re tired of having an overbite, we have exciting news:
Invisalign can fix it!
How?
In this blog, you’ll learn:
- Important information about overbites
- How Invisalign can correct overbites
- How long treatment will take
And more! Let’s jump in…
What is an overbite? How to tell if you have one?
A quick definition:
An overbite… opens in a new window to Invisalign website… is a misalignment in which the upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth. This could be a small overlap or a severe one.
What causes an overbite?
Often, it’s just genetics, which changes the shape and size of the teeth or jaw, making either too little or too much room in the jaw. This leads to an overbite either way.
Overbites are also caused by habits, including:
- Nail-biting
- Thumb-sucking
- Chewing on pencils and other objects
Another cause is losing a tooth without getting it replaced.
Are overbites normal?
Yes, they’re very common. Around 70% of all children have some signs of an overbite.
But…
Is an overbite bad?
Yes! Having an overbite could cause problems, including:
- Jaw pain
- Worn tooth enamel, leading to cavities
- Gum disease
- Pain during eating
- Headaches
- Difficulty closing and opening the mouth
- Problems speaking
- Sleep apnea
Overbites often lead to overall health complications too.
Is overbite treatment urgent?
Cases of moderate to severe overbite often lead to major challenges and risks. And even correcting a mild overbite will give you exciting benefits.
Here are some advantages you might experience:
- Better speech: Some patients lose a lisp or other speech impediment as their overbite disappears.
- Headache prevention: Misaligned teeth can wear out jaw joints, leading to a sore jaw, headaches, ringing in the ears, and more.
- A better facial shape: For some patients, correcting an overbite makes their jawline look sharper and more youthful.
- Damage control: Misaligned teeth rub against each other and get worn down and damaged. A better bite keeps them strong, helping prevent cavities and gum disease.
- A beautiful smile: Many Americans are dissatisfied with their smile and afraid to show their teeth. An improved bite could make you happier with your smile.
How do you fix an overbite?
Overbites are often treated with orthodontics.
Now, if you don’t like the idea of wearing metal brackets and wires, then you’ll be happy to know Invisalign may be an option for you.
Is Invisalign good for overbites?
Yes!
Clear aligners are an exciting alternative to traditional metal braces. You’ll still get a better bite and straighter teeth without the nuances and visibility of braces!
If you’re not familiar, an Invisalign treatment plan generally looks like this:
- Consultation and exam: Find an Invisalign provider near you and schedule a consultation to determine if you’re a candidate.
- Scanning: If Invisalign is the best option, you’ll have a digital impression taken (no goop).
- Planning: Your dentist in Tukwila, WA creates a custom plan for a series of aligners that’ll gradually move your teeth.
- Aligner creation: An Invisalign lab creates your clear aligners using 3D printers.
- Placing aligners: You’ll visit your dentist to receive your aligners and instructions.
- Convenient maintenance: You’ll take your aligners out for meals, brushing, and flossing. Eat what you like! And wear your aligners for about 22 hours per day.
- Checkups: You’ll meet with your dentist to check progress, make adjustments as needed, and receive more sets of aligners.
- Progress: Your teeth will move under consistent pressure (without the sudden tightening associated with braces).
- New smile: Once you’re happy with your smile, you’ll complete treatment and wear a retainer at night to prevent your teeth from shifting back.
Now, fixing an overbite with Invisalign involves a little more…
How to fix an overbite with Invisalign
Standard Invisalign treatment – with just the aligners – likely won’t shift your teeth and jawline enough to treat an overbite. This is why overbite treatment with Invisalign often includes elastic bands.
Invisalign elastic bands connect your top and bottom aligners. These apply a different type of pressure that:
- Move your bottom teeth forward
- Move your top teeth back.
Using advanced software, your dentist will plan how your top and bottom teeth will meet just right, fixing most overbite cases.
If your overbite is extremely severe, you may not be a candidate. Rest assured, your dentist should tell you that from the beginning and discuss alternative options.
How long does it take to treat an overbite?
Every case is unique. Some patients see their overbite transform in just six months. Others could use aligners for up to 20 months.
Plus, different solutions are more appropriate for different age groups. For example:
- Children and teens: Can benefit from baby tooth removal, retainers, braces, and jaw positioning-positioning devices that work well while they’re growing. Overbites are also easier to correct when a patient is under 12-13 years old.
- Adults: May need only braces or aligners to move teeth (although some need additional interventions).
If you’re a candidate for Invisalign, you should receive a treatment length estimate during your consultation.
Want to fix your overbite with Invisalign in Tukwila, WA?
Contact our Invisalign Preferred Providers at Benca Dentistry.
Our Tukwila dentists have treated countless happy patients with Invisalign. Check out our Smile Gallery to see for yourself.
During your Invisalign consultation, we’ll examine your mouth and provide you with our professional recommendations on how to best fix your overbite. If you’re a candidate for Invisalign, we can discuss costs, treatment length, and show you a digital preview of what your finished smile could look like.
Or:
- Call us at 206-575-1173
- Email us at info@bencadds.com
Our office is located in Tukwila, WA… opens in a new window to Google Maps…. We happily welcome patients from all over, including Kent, Seattle, Bellevue, Renton, and Newcastle, WA.
