Does Invisalign Correct an Overbite?

When you smile, do you notice your upper teeth extending past your lower teeth? If so, you have an overbite.

You can fix an overbite through orthodontics, but does Invisalign correct an overbite? It can, but the results depend on the severity of your overbite.

Invisalign is a popular method for straightening teeth and is ideal for adults who want a discreet way to fix their teeth.

In this article, we’ll explore Invisalign, how it works, and if it can correct an overbite.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a teeth-straightening system that uses clear aligners to shift your teeth. Your dentist makes impressions of your teeth before beginning the process.

Next, they’ll make clear aligners you must wear all the time. Your dentist will suggest keeping them in at all times except when eating or brushing your teeth.

The aligners place pressure on your teeth, causing them to shift into the proper placement. As your teeth shift, your aligners become looser and more comfortable. When this occurs, you replace the aligners with a new set.

Each set forces your teeth to move in small increments. When you complete the process, your teeth should be aligned properly.

People with overbites turn to braces or Invisalign for help. You can also choose Invisalign to achieve straighter teeth. Your dentist can help you determine if it’s the right option for you.

Can Invisalign Correct Overbites?

Invisalign is effective at straightening teeth, but can it correct an overbite? The answer is yes. Invisalign can correct an overbite if the overbite is mild to moderate.

When you visit a dentist or orthodontist in Eagan, they’ll begin by examining your teeth. They’ll look for your issues and determine what they must do to correct them.

If you want to straighten your teeth, they’ll create the aligners to force the teeth into place. When correcting an overbite, they will design the aligners to shift the upper teeth back.

An overbite occurs when your front teeth rest too far in front of your lower teeth. Your upper teeth should rest in front of your lower teeth. Therefore, your overbite might be normal.

However, some people have significant overbites, so the gap is too large. Invisalign can help people fix this problem in many situations.

Invisalign achieves this goal by placing pressure on the front teeth, forcing them to move back. This process naturally alleviates an overbite, but it takes time.

No system fixes an overbite instantly. Instead, it requires time, and you must wear the aligners as much as possible for it to work.

Understanding the Boundaries of Invisalign for Overbite Treatment

Invisalign is ideal for adults and teens. Of course, there are also braces for adults and teens. An orthodontist can help you determine the right choice for your teeth.

As an orthodontist evaluates your teeth, they’ll look for several things:

Severity of the Overbite

The primary thing an orthodontist evaluates is the severity of your overbite. Invisalign works well for correcting minor or moderate overbites, but it has limits. Therefore, it might not be the best choice for a severe overbite.

Fortunately, orthodontists offer alternative options. For example, ceramic braces might work well for correcting a major overbite.

Skeletal Issues

During your evaluation, they will take x-rays. The goal is to see your skeletal structure; the x-rays show your jawbone. The orthodontist needs to see this, as this must be moved for Invisalign to effectively correct an overbite.

If you have any skeletal problems or anomalies, the orthodontist might suggest traditional or ceramic braces instead.

Your Goals

Finally, the orthodontist will ask you about your goals. What do you want from Invisalign? This might not be the best option if you’re looking for a quick fix.

Factors to Consider

After looking at your teeth, the orthodontist will consider a few additional factors before recommending Invisalign. They will discuss these with you, and here are a few final things they’ll consider:

Current Oral Health

Getting braces or Invisalign requires healthy teeth and gums. The orthodontist will examine your oral health and suggest repair work if necessary.

For example, you’ll likely need to remove and fill your cavities before getting Invisalign. You’ll also need work if you have gum problems, such as gingivitis.

Additionally, you must continue visiting your regular dentist for checkups and cleanings after getting Invisalign. Caring for your teeth is vital with orthodontics.

Age

Orthodontists also consider a person’s age before recommending Invisalign. Invisalign works well for people of all ages, but your age matters.

Teens, for example, might forget to wear their aligners if they haven’t developed responsible daily routines. Effective Invisalign results rely on wearing the aligners as much as possible.

Therefore, you’ll need to consider your teen’s level of responsibility before agreeing to Invisalign. Adults may not have a problem with this aspect.

Invisalign is common with adults, as it offers an almost invisible form of braces. However, there might be better choices if you have severe teeth issues, such as a major overbite.

The jawbones in adults are more challenging to move than in kids. This is primarily because a child’s jawbone is still forming and becoming more dense as they age.

Costs and Affordability

The final factor is costs. While many clinics offer flexible payment plans, Invisalign may cost more than traditional braces. However, Invisalign costs vary.