how does invisalign fix an overbite (1)

How Does Invisalign Fix an Overbite?

If you’ve been searching for Invisalign online, you might have come across claims that it can’t adjust overbite. A dentist may have told you years ago that Invisalign was not a good option because of your overbite during your consultation. 

Although Invisalign’s primary purpose initially was to straighten teeth, advances in materials and technology have made it possible to use aligners to treat various orthodontic problems, including overbites. 

Your orthodontist may suggest some different treatment options for you. The severity of the overbite and other aspects, such as its actual reason, will determine which type is most likely to work. A common way to improve an overbite is with braces. Aligners might also be considered.

What is an Overbite?

Invisalign fixes an overbite

When your upper and lower front teeth overlap, you have an overbite. While some overlap is common, excessiveness can lead to many problems. These include difficulty chewing, jaw pain, and uneven tooth wear. Genetics, thumb-sucking as a child, or prolonged pacifier use are common causes of overbites.

Overbite Adjustment Using Invisalign

You may be curious about how Invisalign aligners can correct an overbite. It’s simple to comprehend how they move teeth into new positions to straighten them, but how can they enhance your bite like other orthodontic devices?

The answer is that Invisalign aligners need elastics to treat overbites, just like standard metal braces. Thanks to these elastics that join your top and bottom aligners, your bottom teeth are moved forward while your top teeth are pushed back. The “buttons” on your aligners are where the elastics are attached. 

Is Invisalign Effective for Treating All Overbites?

These days, an overbite can mostly be corrected with Invisalign aligners. Technological advancements in Invisalign design and the ability to attach rubber bands mean that overbites can frequently be treated with aligners as successfully as traditional braces.

Invisalign might not be the best option for patients with severe overbite or other complex orthodontic conditions. If we conclude that aligner therapy is not a good option for your overbite, we will advise you to see an orthodontist who can use braces or another orthodontic treatment to correct your bite. Adults who suffer from severe overbites may require frequent orthognathic surgery, which an oral surgeon performs to realign the jaw. 

How An Overbite Can Be Fixed With Invisalign

Transparency and the absence of large hardware are Invisalign’s primary selling points. Although not entirely invisible, Invisalign is significantly less noticeable in the mouth than a metal brace. Many people also find it more comfortable.

Custom-made, removable plastic trays and Invisalign aligners are worn for at least 20 to 22 hours daily. New trays are replaced every week or every two weeks. Every tray is different from the ones that were previously used. Your orthodontist modifies your trays by gradually applying more pressure to your teeth. The pressure gradually increases throughout treatment to realign teeth and progressively improve your bite. 

How Long Does it Take?

The condition of your teeth, the intensity of your overbite, and the effort needed to achieve alignment all affect how long it takes Invisalign to fix an overbite, just like traditional braces. According to Invisalign, patients can anticipate wearing their aligners for 6 months to 2 years. 

If you take your aligners out for more than 2 hours every day, you will need to wear them for a more extended amount of time. After your Invisalign treatment, you will wear a retainer to ensure your teeth stay in their new, proper alignment. Aligners should be taken out for meals and brushing. 

Are Rubber Bands Compatible With Invisalign?

Rubber bands support orthodontic treatment by applying extra pressure on teeth to move in a particular direction. When they are utilized in orthodontics, rubber bands are occasionally referred to as elastics.

Elastics can be used with Invisalign aligners to correct an overbite, so they’re not just for traditional braces. Wearing elastics in addition to aligners may speed up or enhance treatment, according to your orthodontist’s assessment. To create a button or latch, your orthodontist will apply a tooth-colored bonding material directly to some teeth. One button on the top tooth and one on the bottom will have each rubber band fastened. Buttons are typically applied to the lower molars and upper canines to correct overbites. 

Braces vs. Invisalign

This can be difficult to choose between Invisalign and traditional braces because each has advantages and disadvantages. The cost, appearance, and speed of treatment differ for both. 

The most important factors might be the ones you cannot control, like how severe your overbite is and whether you have any dental problems that need to be fixed. Let’s review some important considerations when choosing a treatment for your teeth’s future.

Duration of Therapy

There is no hard and fast rule regarding how long you will need braces versus aligners. You can get estimates for each from your orthodontist. Traditional braces are typically worn for one to three years, whereas Invisalign estimates that the average treatment duration is six months to two years. 

When to Consult a Dentist? 

There is more to having an overbite than just appearance. Too many bites can damage your teeth, hurt your jaw, and even cut your tongue. Keep in mind that the adaptability of your jaw and mouth can change with age. Your treatment period may be shortened if you take care of an overbite immediately. 

If you have an overbite and want to adjust your teeth, speak with your dentist at a reputable clinic such as Valiente Dental or an orthodontist. They can suggest the best treatment based on your goals, budget, and teeth.

Conclusion

Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Invisalign, a well-known aligner type on the market, in treating mild to moderate overbites. Traditional braces may be a more effective treatment for severe overbites and other dental conditions. However, unlike braces, Invisalign may be faster at correcting mild to moderate overbites. 

Additionally, they are less noticeable when worn, though some patients might need rubber bands added to meet their treatment objectives. For optimal results, the aligners must be worn exactly as prescribed. Invisalign and traditional braces require a customized treatment plan to fit your unique teeth. 

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