Can Invisalign Fix Overbite Issues? Let’s Find Out

Since receiving approval from the Food and Drug Administration in 1998, Invisalign has been a popular alternative to traditional braces for resolving mild to moderate tooth misalignment. This treatment consists of a series of clear plastic aligners that are worn for 20 to 22 hours a day.

One of the most common reasons that patients at Innovative Dental and Orthodontics is to resolve mild to moderate overbite. There are several reasons why people seek to fix an overbite. In some cases, it is concerns over their appearance and in other cases, it is because it is causing irritation to their teeth, gums, or tongue.

Current research indicates that Invisalign is an appropriate option for most mild to moderate overbites. In some cases, it may be used for a severe overbite- but many times traditional braces are recommended for severe misalignments.

What is Overbite?

Overbite, often referred to as buck teeth, is a type of tooth misalignment characterized by the upper front teeth sticking out past the lower front teeth.

Most of the time, an overbite is genetic. However, other factors can cause an overbite to develop including:

• Pacifier use or thumb-sucking after the age of 3
• Excessive nail biting
• Tongue-thrusting
• Bruxism

A mild overbite may have little to no impact on your overall health. However, if left untreated, it can progress and lead to issues including:

• Difficulties breathing
• Speech problems
• Jaw pain/TMD
• Difficulty/pain while chewing
• Cavities/tooth decay
• Gum disease

Can Invisalign Fix Overbite Issues? 

Current research indicates that Invisalign clear aligners are an appropriate treatment option for most mild to moderate- and even severe- overbite. This allows patients to discreetly straighten their teeth to create a healthier, more confident smile.

Can Invisalign Fix All Types of Overbites?

Invisalign is most appropriate for mild to moderate overbites. Typically, traditional braces are recommended for severe overbites. However, Invisalign can be used on severe overbites with the inclusion of SmartForce attachments, which are tooth-colored buttons that are placed on teeth to hold the aligners in place.

How Does Invisalign Fix Overbite?

Invisalign treatment uses custom-fitted clear aligners to gradually shift teeth into their appropriate position within the jaw. Here’s what you can expect:

• Consultation with an Invisalign dentist/orthodontist: this is when we will determine if you qualify for Invisalign and create your custom treatment plan.
• Fabrication of aligners: digital scans and information from your consultation will be forwarded to an Invisalign lab, where your custom aligners will be created.
• Wearing your aligners: you will be instructed to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. They should only be removed to eat or for brushing/flossing teeth. Each aligner will shift teeth up to 0.3 millimeters and should be swapped out every 2 to 3 weeks based on your treatment plan.
• Follow-up: you will return after the first aligner to ensure that treatment is progressing. After that, you’ll visit approximately every 6 weeks so that we can track your progress.
• Retainer: at the end of treatment, you’ll be given a retainer, which will keep your teeth straight.

How Long Does Invisalign Take to Fix Overbite?

There are several factors that determine how long it takes for Invisalign to fix an overbite, including:

• Current condition of teeth
• Severity of overbite
• How many aligners you need
• Compliance with treatment

Invisalign treatment can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years- but takes an average of 12 to 18 months.

One of the major factors to treatment is compliance with wearing the aligners. Aligners can be removed for meals and brushing teeth but should not be out for more than 4 hours a day.

You will be given a retainer to wear at the end of your treatment. This should be worn for a full 20 to 22 hours a day at first, gradually reducing the time until it is only worn at night to keep your teeth in their new position.

Invisalign vs. Braces - Which is Better for Overbite?

Both options are viable for most mild to moderate overbites. However, more severe overbite may require traditional braces. Your orthodontist can help you decide which one is right for you based on your needs and the severity of your overbite.

You may also want to consider the following:

• Treatment length: traditional braces typically take longer than Invisalign
• Convenience: traditional braces require dental visits every few weeks for adjustments/tightening as the teeth shift
• Food Restrictions: traditional braces require that you give up certain foods during treatment to avoid damaging brackets and wires
• Cost: the cost of treatment is comparable between the two and dental insurance will typically cover a portion of treatment

Schedule Your Invisalign Consultation with Innovative Dental and Orthodontics

If you have a mild to moderate overbite- or other type of tooth misalignment- schedule your consultation visit with the team at Innovative Dental and Orthodontics today. Dr. Sejal Kamat is qualified in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of orthodontic issues, with 3 years of advanced specialty training.

She has a caring personality and treats her patients like family. She will work with you to straighten your smile, improving your oral and overall health as well as your confidence.

We are located on County Road 419 in Oviedo, Florida. You can schedule your appointment by visiting our website or calling the office.