One of the many struggles of patients with their oral health is their overbite, where the upper front teeth overlap the lower front teeth more than they should. Patients would commonly report having problems like difficulty chewing, jaw pain, and even excessive tooth wear over time, all of which can be caused by an overbite.
If you’re considering a solution, you might be wondering…
“Can Invisalign correct an overbite?”
In this blog, let’s take a look at whether Invisalign is a reliable solution for people who have an overbite.
Understanding Overbites and Their Impact on Oral Health
An overbite, also called a deep bite, occurs when the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth. A slight overbite is normal, but when the overlap is too large, it can lead to more serious oral health concerns like:
- Excessive wear on teeth
- Jaw pain or discomfort
- Increased risk of cavities and gum disease
- Speech difficulties
- Self-consciousness about your smile
This is the reason why many people seek orthodontic treatment, such as Invisalign and overbite correction, to improve the function, appearance, and alignment of the teeth.
Can Invisalign Correct an Overbite?
The short answer is yes!
Invisalign can correct many cases of overbite. However, the effectiveness of Invisalign for overbite depends on the severity of the issue.
Mild to Moderate Overbites
Invisalign is a great option for treating mild to moderate overbites. The aligners gently move the teeth into proper alignment, which reduces the overlap between the upper and lower teeth. In some cases, your dentist may also use small tooth-coloured attachments (called buttons) to help guide the teeth to their position more effectively.
Severe Overbites
For severe overbites, orthodontists might recommend you get traditional braces or a combination of Invisalign and other orthodontic treatments to ensure your teeth will effectively move towards a more aligned position. In some cases, jaw surgery might be required to correct the underlying skeletal issue.
During your consultation at Dentist Near Me Toongabbie, your dentist will evaluate your overbite and recommend the best treatment option for your specific needs.
How Invisalign Works to Fix an Overbite
Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually shift teeth into their ideal positions. These aligners are custom-made for each patient and work by applying gentle pressure on the teeth. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, which makes them a good option for adults and teens who prioritise the discreteness of dental appliances.
For overbite correction, Invisalign aligners help move the upper teeth back and the lower teeth forward, which will help improve teeth alignment over time.
In some cases, small tooth-coloured attachments are placed on specific teeth to give the aligners a better grip. Additionally, elastics (small rubber bands) may be used to help correct jaw alignment, which ensures a more precise improvement in the bite.
How Long Does Invisalign Take to Fix an Overbite?
One of the most common questions asked by our patients is, How long does Invisalign take to fix an overbite?
The treatment time of Invisalign varies depending on the severity of the overbite, how well the patient follows their treatment plan, and how their teeth respond to the aligners. On average, Invisalign can take anywhere from 6 to 24 months to correct an overbite. Mild cases may require less time, while more complex cases can take longer.
Here is an average timeline for different cases:
- Mild Overbites: Treatment can take as little as 6–12 months.
- Moderate Overbites: Treatment typically takes 12–18 months.
- Severe Overbites: Treatment may take 18–24 months or longer, especially if additional treatments are needed.
To achieve the best results using Invisalign, patients must wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking (except for water), and brushing their teeth. Failing to wear the aligners as directed may extend the treatment timeline.
Benefits of Using Invisalign for Overbite Correction
Choosing Invisalign to correct an overbite offers several advantages:
1. Discreet Appearance
Invisalign aligners are clear and nearly invisible. So, for patients who want a subtle way to straighten their teeth, this may be a great option for that reason.
2. Comfortable to Wear
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners have smooth edges and no metal brackets or wires, which reduces the risk of irritation to the gums and cheeks.
3. Removable for Convenience
Since the aligners are removable, there are no food restrictions. Patients can continue enjoying their favourite meals without worrying about damaging brackets or wires.
4. Easier Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing are much easier compared to traditional braces since the aligners can be taken out, allowing for proper cleaning of the teeth and gums. However, it’s also important to clean these aligners to keep teeth free from bacteria and plaque.
5. Gradual and Predictable Results
With Invisalign, patients receive a series of aligners that guide teeth into the correct position over time. If you partner with Dentist Near Me Toongabbie, you can expect to receive a digital treatment planning process, which allows our patients to see a preview of their expected results before starting treatment.
Straighten Your Smile, Bite by Bite
Whilst Invisalign is a great option for many people looking to fix an overbite, it’s still best to have a professional evaluation first to determine if Invisalign is indeed the best treatment for your unique situation. Remember, if your overbite is severe or involves significant jaw misalignment, alternative treatments may be recommended by your dentist.
Before you decide on getting Invisalign, talk to our dentists at Dentist Near Me Toongabbie first to get a clearer picture of what you want to achieve for your overbite. Our team will take time to understand your needs with personalised consultations to help you explore the best treatment options for your smile.
Book a consultation or call us at (02) 7905 0814 to schedule your appointment with one of our caring dentists.
