When someone has an overbite, it means their upper row of teeth goes over, or overlap, the lower ones in the front. Although most people have a slight overbite, some have what dentists refer to as a deep bite.
Often the key to fixing any misalignment is with a dental appliance like braces. The more modern-day approach is Invisalign, but is this the right choice for an overbite?
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is the brand name for clear, removable aligners that are near invisible. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners come out when you eat, brush or floss your teeth. Otherwise, they work in much the same way as metal braces.
The goal is to move teeth using continuous pressure. As teeth move, the jaw bone remodels behind each tooth to secure it. Invisalign treatment provides a series of trays to maintain pressure. It’s a treatment that is more gentle than standard braces, which tend to cause tissue irritation.
Can Invisalign Fix an Overbite?
In a word, yes, for most patients. There are limitations, but most patients have good results with Invisalign. The clear aligners carefully move the lower teeth forward and the upper teeth back until they meet in a more comfortable and healthy place, giving you that smile you have been looking for at the same time.
Who is a Candidate for Invisalign Treatment?
It’s essential to see a qualified dentist and get a proper diagnosis. While Invisalign can fix many overbites, it may not work on other conditions like overjet. Also, Invisalign treatments work better for patients who are at least in their teens and who have an otherwise healthy mouth. It may not be the right choice for someone with dental disease, for example. Their jaw may not be able to support the movement of the teeth. Only the dentist can tell you for sure if Invisalign is right for your overbite, so call us today to schedule your appointment.