Overbite is often perceived as a mere detriment, affecting everything from one’s speech to the chewing process. If you have always found yourself self-conscious about your smile or have noticed some discomfort in your jaw, then your overbite is most likely the cause of it all. Nowadays, people indulge in this advanced form of dental solution: Invisalign. But can it actually fix something that big, like an overbite? Let’s break it down.
How Does an Overbite Occur?
An overbite happens when the upper front teeth are extended too far over the lower front teeth. While it is normal to have a slight overbite, a more prominent, deeper overbite tends to be problematic and usually comes with:
- Pain in the jaw or TMJ
- Difficulties in speech
- Uneven wear on the teeth
- Higher chance of damage to the teeth.
Many causes are contributing to the overbite. Genetics often play a role, but also habits such as prolonged thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or even long bottle feeding sessions during childhood can contribute. Whatever the cause, detection of the overbite at an early stage can prevent it from leading to long-term consequences concerning oral health.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign Irvine uses a series of uniquely designed, clear aligner trays to move teeth to the proper position slowly. These customized aligners are based on 3D scans of your teeth to ensure a very precise and comfortable fit.
Here is what makes Invisalign different:
- Not Even Noticeable: The aligners are almost invisible when worn.
- Removable: Take off to eat, brush, or floss.
- Custom-fitted: Made for your unique dental structure.
- No brackets or wires: Fewer office visits and no emergency trips to fix broken hardware.
Each set is usually replaced about every two weeks, and, as you wear them, they slowly guide your teeth into alignment- both cosmetic and structural dental needs.
Can Invisalign Fix an Overbite?
Yes, Invisalign fixes many types of overbites, especially if the overbite is dento-related (misaligned teeth rather than related to the jaw’s orientation). Other tools, such as attachments (small bumps matching the color of the teeth that can help the aligners grip and move the teeth more efficiently) or elastics, can also approximate the jaw position to some extent.
Here’s what it does for overbites:
- Movement over time: The aligners will move the upper and lower teeth so that they come together better when biting down.
- Elastics and Attachments: When needed, these extra items provide the extra force needed to move the jaw.
- Digital Treatment Planning: This is the part where you get to see your future smile before treatment starts as your provider plans out every step with the aid of 3D imaging.
However, when it comes to severe skeletal overbites that align more with the jawbone structure and require traditional braces or some other surgical corrections, they may be of little efficacy. But what about moderate to mild cases? For these cases, Invisalign is quite the star player and proven solution.
So, is Invisalign able to fix an overbite? In many cases, absolutely. Smart technology and proper treatment could correct bite issues and get that straight, healthy smile you’ve wanted so badly. If you are tired of hiding your smile, now is the right time to consider Invisalign for your overbite correction.
Call our dental clinic and find out if Invisalign is your answer to overbite.