Can Invisalign Fix An Overbite?

Wearing traditional metal-and-wire braces isn’t necessarily your only option now if you need orthodontic treatment. Depending on various factors, you may be a candidate for Invisalign.

Invisalign is an alternative to traditional braces that may address a range of orthodontic issues. One such issue Invisalign could potentially treat is an overbite. If you have an overbite but would like to avoid wearing braces, the following guide will help you better understand the degree to which Invisalign may serve your needs.

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign treatment involves wearing clear aligners that gradually push teeth into the desired position. Benefits of Invisalign treatment include:

Correcting malocclusions without requiring patients to wear metal-and-wire braces that some may consider unsightly

• Allowing a patient to eat what they want during treatment, as patients should remove Invisalign aligners before eating
• Allowing a patient to more easily brush and floss during treatment

According to a recent study in the journal Progress in Orthodontics, Invisalign treatment also appears to be as effective as braces when treating various common types of orthodontic issues.

What You Need to Know About an Overbite

An overbite is a relatively common type of dental misalignment. When someone has an overbite, their upper front teeth extend beyond their lower front teeth.

Some overbites are minor, causing no significant issues and having a relatively minimal impact on an individual’s appearance. However, severe overbites may cause dental and oral health problems if left unaddressed. Specifically, an overbite may result in:

• Difficulty breathing
• A TMJ disorder
• A greater risk of gum disease
• Pain or discomfort
• Speech issues
• Greater risk of tooth decay

Overbites often develop during childhood. Factors that can increase a child’s odds of developing an overbite include:

• Excessive or long-term thumbsucking
• Tongue-thrusting
• Using a pacifier beyond the age of three years
• Teeth grinding
• Nail biting
• Genetics

The best way to determine whether your overbite is severe enough to require treatment is to discuss the matter with a dentist. They can explain whether treatment is necessary.

Can I Fix an Overbite With Invisalign?

Invisalign treatment usually involves pushing teeth into position over time by wearing custom aligners. Because it doesn’t typically involve moving the jaw, which is often necessary for correcting an overbite, you might understandably wonder whether Invisalign is an effective overbite treatment option.

Invisalign isn’t always the right treatment for a patient with an overbite. If an overbite is severe, Invisalign may not deliver the desired results. Or, Invisalign might complement other orthodontic treatments.

However, when patients have minor or moderate overbites, Invisalign with a mandibular advancement feature may help. According to Invisalign’s official description, the mandibular advancement feature consists of a set of wings that can push a patient’s lower jaw forward, helping their upper and lower teeth become even.

When Invisalign Isn’t an Option

Again, Invisalign can’t fix all overbites. Traditional braces might be necessary if Invisalign won’t be effective.

What’s most important to take away from this overview is that, contrary to what some claim, Invisalign may fix an overbite that isn’t particularly severe. Discuss the topic with a dentist for more information about whether Invisalign will help you or your child correct an overbite.

Learn More About Invisalign Treatment in Wayne, NJ

At Fine Dental Care, in Wayne, NJ, our team is prepared to evaluate the condition of your teeth and determine if Invisalign treatment is the right option for you. Get started today by contacting us online or calling us at 973-633-5440 to request an appointment.