The American Dental Association points out that about 70 percent of kids have signs of an overbite. These cases are genetic, but some arise from abnormally growing baby teeth, excessive thumb sucking, and pacifier sucking. Many people will ask, “Can Invisalign® fix an overbite?” The answer is that Invisalign can fix an overbite. We answer some common FAQs regarding Invisalign and overbites.
What is an Overbite?
Overbites are malocclusions of teeth; they make the front teeth protrude out. Both kids and adults can have this bite problem. Overbites come in two forms: horizontal and vertical.
In vertical overbites, the top teeth protract from the lower teeth. On the flip side, horizontal overbites make the top teeth stick out within the front of the bottom teeth. You should see an orthodontist if you suspect an overbite. Depending on the severity and type of the malocclusion, the orthodontist will recommend the right overbite correction method.
How Does Invisalign Work for Overbite?
If you have an overbite, you can receive an inconspicuous treatment with transparent aligners. Invisalign orthodontic treatment involves the use of customized, removable aligners. Although Invisalign can help with overbites and other issues like teeth spacing, crowding, and underbites, it may not always work for every patient.
When you go for overbite correction with Invisalign, a dentist will do an exam. The exam will help establish if Invisalign can fix the overbite problem. When it is found that you are good for Invisalign, then you will get customized aligner trays created for you. The dental office will order a digital tooth scan of the teeth and jawbone, enabling the dentist to devise the treatment plan from start to finish.
Using a digital scanner like iTero scanning, a dentist can get a clear picture of the phases required for your overbite treatment and the projected results. Once the trays are fabricated, you must wear them for roughly 14 days and change them according to how the treatment progresses.
How long does Invisalign take? You should realize that each overbite case or malocclusion is different. As such, it may be challenging to estimate how long it will take for Invisalign to correct your overbite; however, the Invisalign timeline is somewhere between 6 to 24 months.
What are the Alternatives to Fix Overbite?
Apart from Invisalign, you can correct an overbite with other orthodontic treatments, such as a palatal expander, metal braces, and orthognathic surgery. A palatal expander is fitted against the mouth’s tooth, which gradually widens the upper jaw, allowing the bottom and top teeth to fit together properly.
Metal braces apply pressure to the jaw, teeth, and bones, moving them in place. In severe cases, a dentist may choose surgery to fix your overbite. This surgery is most appropriate when the lower and upper jaws have grown at different rates. It works to realign the jawbone, thus reversing the impact of uneven growth.
Conclusion
Invisalign offers a viable alternative to traditional metal braces for mild and moderate cases of overbites. Clear aligners prove to be comfortable, hygienic, and, best of all, work invisibly to shift teeth and jaw. These aligners are the most sought-after type of orthodontic treatment for misalignment issues because of their ability to work discreetly. Consider Invisalign if you seek a dentistry solution to overbites and other misalignments. Visit a dentist near you who has experience in Invisalign treatment.