Your smile plays a significant part in your oral and overall well-being, which can be impacted by common malocclusions like overbites. Modern solutions like Invisalign® include clear, custom plastic trays that fit over your teeth to guide them into alignment.
While the main appeal of Invisalign® is its transparency and lack of bulky hardware, the answer to whether it could or could not fix overbites depends. Those who are all in for choosing Invisalign® might be happy to know that Invisalign® can fix overbites, but only mild to moderate cases.
In this blog, we’ll cover whether Invisalign® can fix an overbite, what treatment is most suitable to fix an overbite, and how to achieve the smile that you have been longing for.
What Is An Overbite?
Overbite is a type of malocclusion, which refers to the misalignment of the front and bottom teeth. Both kids and adults can suffer from an overbite, which can take form in two variations:
- Vertical Overbite: Here, the front teeth significantly cover or overlap the front two teeth, leading to jaw pain, tooth decay, and gum disease if left untreated.
- Horizontal Overbite: Commonly known as an overjet or “buck teeth” due to their appearance. Here, the upper front teeth horizontally protrude over or beyond the lower teeth.
Regardless of the type of overbite, both have the potential to impact oral and overall well-being if left untreated. Making it essential to seek orthodontic treatment if you notice misalignment or symptoms of an overbite in your smile.
The proper overbite correction method will revolve around the type and severity of overbite you have. Which is why a professional diagnosis can help determine if Invisalign® is the right treatment method for you.
Is Invisalign® The Right Option For Me?
The severity and type of overbite can largely impact your treatment process. Your orthodontist will assess your bite to decide whether Invisalign® is the right treatment method to meet your specific needs.
If you have other dental issues and your overbite is severe, traditional braces may be a more suitable option for you here.
How To Treat An Overbite With Invisalign®
Invisalign® uses a series of plastic aligners that hug your teeth and put the right amount of force to push your teeth in their right position. Like traditional methods, the plastic trays are customized to fit firmly over the teeth. These trays are then swapped out for alternate ones as your treatment progresses. Each tray is slightly different from the previous one to ensure optimal alignment.
In the initial stages, you’ll be instructed to wear your aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours daily. With the exception of taking them out simply during meal times or while maintaining oral hygiene. As your treatment progresses, your teeth will gradually move into the desired position, leading to a balanced and natural smile.
Invisalign® Treatment Duration
Each treatment period varies from the next. The amount of time it takes for Invisalign® to work depends on a variety of factors, such as:
- The condition of your teeth
- The severity of your overbite
- The number of trays required to achieve alignment
Following your orthodontist’s instructions is the key to reducing your treatment duration. Most patients are recommended to consistently wear their aligners from 6 to 12 months, depending on the type of overbite. A general rule of thumb is to wear your aligners at all times, other than during eating or drinking, and maintain oral hygiene.
Taking out your aligners for more than 2 hours can result in extended treatment duration. If you notice your aligners have gone missing or don’t fit anymore, your treatment may need some revision. Do not attempt to force your aligners onto your teeth, as it can damage both your teeth and appliance.
How Invisalign® Resolves Overbite In Young Patients
Developing jawbones and teeth are easier to treat than in adults. Kids have softer jawbone tissue, which promotes shorter treatment duration without restriction. In early intervention treatment plans, your child’s orthodontist will wait until mature teeth have fully erupted to correct the overbite.
How Invisalign® Fixes Overbites For Teens And Adults
Compared to children, adults have a longer treatment period. This is because adults have fully developed jawbones and possess severe teeth misalignment that can prolong treatment duration.
Invisalign® uses a series of trays that move the teeth into alignment. Ideally, this treatment method is more feasible for mild to moderate overbite cases. Your orthodontist will assess your bite and determine whether Invisalign® is the best approach to treat your smile.
Can You Use Rubber Bands With Invisalign®?
Like braces, Invisalign® utilizes rubber bands to correct orthodontic conditions. Also known as “elastic bands,” which apply additional pressure on the teeth to guide them into alignment. To fix severe cases of an overbite, your orthodontist may recommend combining both Invisalign® and elastic bands to treat your smile.
In this treatment process, a tooth-colored bonding material is applied to the affected teeth to form a button or latch. Similar to braces, the bands will be attached to form a button on the upper teeth and conjoin with the button present on the lower teeth. For overbite correction, the buttons are usually placed on the upper canines and lower molars.
Benefits Of Using Invisalign® For Overbites
Here are some of the key benefits of choosing Invisalign® to correct your overbite:
Virtually Invisible: The number one reason patients opt for Invisalign® is because of their transparent appearance, as it does not draw unwanted attention to their smile.
Flexibility: Unlike traditional methods, you can remove your aligners during meals or while brushing and flossing. This helps maintain optimal oral health, significantly reducing the risk of gum disease.
Enhanced Comfort: Invisalign® aligners are designed using smooth plastic material and are comparatively more comfortable than traditional braces that cause abrasions and cuts.
Explore Long-Lasting Solutions To Treat Your Smile With Orthodontic Experts
With various treatment plans and appealing options like Invisalign®, it can be confusing to choose the correct treatment method suited for your smile. At Orthodontic Experts, we make this decision-making process easier for you by offering support at every phase of your treatment.
Whether you want to start your orthodontic journey or learn more about how Invisalign® can fix your overbite, our team of professionals is here to support you at every step. Contact us today to schedule a no-cost consultation, and let us help you achieve a perfectly aligned and healthy smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Invisalign® fix overbite in adults?
Yes! Invisalign® is a modern treatment method designed to treat various orthodontic conditions, including overbites in adults. However, like each smile, the severity of overbite can significantly impact your treatment duration. To determine whether Invisalign® is a suitable option for you, consult your orthodontist for a professional diagnosis.
How to fix overbite naturally?
Orthodontic intervention is a necessity to correct an overbite. There are “natural” remedies that can help treat overbite of any type. However, you can implement practices like maintaining good oral posture, tongue exercises, and chewing properly to conceal visual symptoms. For a permanent and ideal approach, orthodontic treatment using braces or Invisalign® is recommended.
What is the cost of Invisalign®?
The cost of Invisalign® largely depends on the complexity of your condition, your age, geographic location, and your orthodontist. For complex cases, you may require an extensive treatment plan to help achieve alignment, which can add to the cost of Invisalign®.
Can Invisalign® fix overbite without rubber bands?
Yes, Invisalign® can fix mild to moderate cases of overbite without utilizing rubber bands. To determine the severity of your overbite, a professional diagnosis can help you choose the right treatment method to correct your smile.
Can Invisalign® fix overbite and crooked teeth?
Invisalign® involves a series of clear trays that gradually reposition the teeth into alignment. They are ideal for treating mild to moderate cases of overbite and crooked teeth. However, in severe cases, complex and durable orthodontic treatment methods are recommended to achieve optimal results.
Invisalign® is a trademark of Align Technology, Inc., and is registered in the U.S. and other countries. Any mention of Invisalign® is for educational and informational purposes only, in accordance with fair use principles.
