Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners that has gained popularity in recent years. Typically used for correcting various cosmetic dental issues, these aligners are a less visible alternative to traditional braces.
Invisalign is a relatively new treatment option, and many are curious to understand how it works and if it can effectively address overbites and other bite issues.
One question that often comes up when discussing orthodontic treatment with Invisalign is whether it can fix an overbite.
Let’s explore the possibilities and limitations of Invisalign in this article.
What is an overbite?
A malocclusion is a misalignment of the teeth, and one common type is an overbite.
Overbites occur when the upper teeth extend too far past the lower teeth, and can simply be a cosmetic concern, but can also cause irritation to the teeth, gums, or tongue and can even lead to severe health implications.
What causes an overbite?
The shape and size of the jaw or teeth are the most common causes of an overbite. This can mean having too much or too little room in the jaw area to accommodate the teeth. If left untreated, an overbite can cause crowding or spacing of the teeth, leading to crooked teeth.
Habits like thumb-sucking, prolonged pacifier use, and overuse of a bottle that pushes the tongue against the back of the teeth can result in an overbite in infants and children.
In teenagers and adults, chronic nail biting and chewing on objects like pencils can also cause an overbite. Losing teeth without timely repair can also contribute to the development of an overbite.
What Happens if an Overbite is Not Treated?
If an overbite is left untreated, it can lead to significant health complications. These may include irreversible damage to the teeth due to abnormal positioning, as well as potential jaw pain and temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ).
Other complications of an overbite can include:
· tooth decay,
· gum disease,
· worn tooth enamel,
· jaw pain,
· severe headaches,
· pain while eating,
· difficulty fully opening or closing the mouth,
· sleep apnea, and
· difficulty speaking.
An untreated overbite can also impact facial structure and self-esteem, especially if it is severe and develops during early childhood, potentially leading to aesthetic concerns as early as pre-pubescence.
Can Invisalign be used to correct an overbite?
First and foremost, it’s important to note that the skill, knowledge, and experience of your orthodontic practitioner play a crucial role in determining the outcome of your treatment.
While Invisalign® is one tool among many that an orthodontist may use to address your needs, the ultimate focus should be on achieving the best treatment and outcome, rather than solely on the product used.
Orthodontists can, in some cases, treat an overbite with clear aligners like Invisalign® (which is one of the most well-known brands of clear aligners), depending on the severity and complexity of the case.
There are two main types of overbites: Vertical and horizontal.
A vertical overbite occurs when the top teeth significantly overlap the bottom teeth, while a horizontal overbite happens when the top teeth protrude in front of the bottom teeth. Both types of overbites can be caused by dental or skeletal issues, and the type of overbite you have may impact the approach your orthodontist takes.
The severity of your overbite also plays a role in determining the most appropriate treatment option. In severe cases, such as a class two overbite with a significant bite overlap, clear aligners may not be the best choice for realigning the teeth.
Alternative treatments, such as traditional braces, extractions, or jaw repositioning surgery, may be recommended to fix an overbite depending on the individual case.
How long does it take to fix an overbite?
In children and teenagers, dental crowding in the mouth is a common issue. However, for adults with an overbite problem, the lack of early preventative treatment can result in more severe symptoms associated with overbites.
In either case, the orthodontist or dentist will conduct a thorough examination of the area and create a treatment plan that may last for up to two years,however, the average treatment time is usually between 12 and 18 months. Initial X-rays will be taken to determine the type of overbite and the relationship between the teeth and the jaw, to determine the most effective treatment approach.
The Invisalign® system uses advanced 3D graphics and technology to design aligners that gradually move your teeth in small increments towards a straighter final position.
Each aligner is precisely designed and manufactured to fit your teeth at each stage of your treatment, and you will switch to the next tray in the series every few weeks to continue the incremental tooth movement.
Consult an Orthodontist
If you are considering orthodontic treatment for an overbite or other bite issue, it’s best to consult with a qualified orthodontist who can evaluate your specific needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment approach for you
