Did you know that about 70% of children exhibit signs of an overbite, according to the American Dental Association? While overbites are often hereditary, they can also be caused by factors like irregular development of baby teeth or excessive thumb or pacifier sucking.
What health issues can an overbite lead to? Can Invisalign fix overbite? This blog will answer these questions and cover other frequently asked questions about overbites.
Continue reading to learn more!
What is an Overbite?
An overbite is a type of dental misalignment in which the front teeth protrude outward. It can affect both children and adults. There are two major types of overbites.
- A vertical overbite occurs when the upper teeth extend significantly over the lower teeth.
- A horizontal overbite involves the upper teeth protruding in front of the lower teeth.
Regardless of the type, overbites can lead to various dental issues. Therefore, it is advisable to consult an orthodontist if you or a family member shows signs of an overbite.
What Causes an Overbite?
- Genetics: Often, overbites are inherited from parents, leading to misalignment of teeth and jaws.
- Thumb Sucking: Persistent thumb sucking during childhood can disrupt tooth alignment, potentially resulting in an overbite.
- Pacifier Use: Extended use of a pacifier can similarly affect tooth alignment and contribute to the formation of an overbite.
- Tongue Thrusting: Consistently pushing the tongue against the teeth can cause misalignment and contribute to an overbite.
- Mouth Breathing: Breathing through your mouth rather than the nose can impact the development of your dental arches, potentially leading to an overbite.
- Jaw Size Discrepancies: An imbalance between the size of your upper and lower jaws can also lead to developing an overbite. For example, if the upper jaw is positioned too far forward or the lower jaw is too far back, it can result in an overbite.
Potential Damages Caused by an Overbite
If an overbite is not treated, it can lead to several health problems, including:
- Tooth decay
- Speech difficulties
- Wear and tear on tooth enamel
- Gum disease
- Headaches that may progress to migraines
- Problems with eating and chewing
- Jaw pain and discomfort
Can Invisalign Fix Overbites?
Yes, Invisalign can effectively correct overbites. This clear aligner system uses a series of custom-made, transparent trays to gradually shift the teeth into their correct positions.
In contrast to traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. This makes them a popular choice for both adults and teenagers looking for a discreet and convenient orthodontic treatment.
Invisalign effectively addresses overbites by employing various tooth movements, such as:
- Shifting the upper teeth backward
- Moving the lower teeth forward
- Rotating teeth to enhance alignment
- Adjusting the position of teeth to correct the bite
How Can Invisalign Fix Overbite? – Understanding the Process
Initial Consultation
The first step is to visit an orthodontist who specializes in this treatment. During this initial appointment, the orthodontist will evaluate your overbite and overall dental health to determine if Invisalign is appropriate for you.
Creating a Custom Treatment Plan
If Invisalign is appropriate for your case, the orthodontist will create a personalized treatment plan designed for your unique needs. Utilizing advanced digital scanning technology, your dentist will take detailed images of your jaw and teeth. These images will be used to develop a custom plan outlining how each aligner will slowly and gradually move your teeth into the right position to correct your overbite.
Receiving Your Custom Aligners
After finalizing your treatment plan, a series of custom aligners will be created. You’ll wear each set for about a week before moving on to the next one in the series. Each aligner is specifically designed to make incremental adjustments to your teeth over time.
Regular Check-Ups
During your treatment, you will have periodic check-ups with your orthodontist to monitor your progress, typically every six to ten weeks. These appointments are generally less frequent than those required for traditional braces.
Retainer Use
Once your teeth have achieved their optimal positions, you may need to wear a retainer to maintain your new smile. Your orthodontist will give you instructions on how long you need to wear the retainer to ensure your results are preserved for the long term.
Advantages of Using Invisalign to Fix Overbites
Discreet Appearance
Invisalign aligners are made from clear plastic, making them nearly invisible and a more aesthetically pleasing option compared to traditional metal braces.
Comfort
Invisalign aligners are crafted from smooth plastic and are custom-designed to fit closely over your teeth, minimizing the discomfort and irritation commonly experienced with metal braces.
Fewer Office Visits
Invisalign treatment typically requires fewer office visits compared to traditional braces, as aligners are changed at home, usually every 1-2 weeks.
Fewer Dietary Restrictions
Because Invisalign aligners are easily removable, you can eat and drink without the limitations imposed by metal braces, avoiding food restrictions and reducing the risk of damage to the appliance.
Can Invisalign Fix Overbite? – Takeaway
Invisalign can effectively address overbites by using a series of custom-made, nearly invisible aligners that gradually move the teeth into their correct positions.
If you’re dealing with an overbite and considering Invisalign, schedule a consultation with your orthodontist to determine the most suitable treatment plan for your needs. With proper adherence and care, Invisalign can help you achieve a straighter and healthier smile.
Contact Hardy Smiles and schedule a consultation to find out more!
FAQs
How long does Invisalign take to fix overbite?
The length of Invisalign treatment for correcting an overbite can differ based on how severe your overbite is and the specific treatment plan that your dentist has come up with. Generally, it takes between 12 to 18 months to complete Invisalign treatment for overbite correction.
Can Invisalign fix all types of overbites?
Invisalign is effective for many overbite cases, particularly mild to moderate ones. However, severe overbites may require alternative treatments. An orthodontist can determine if Invisalign is right for your specific situation.
