Once the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of Invisalign in 1998, Invisalign has become one of the most popular alternatives to braces. Invisalign is a brand of clear aligners that function just like braces.

Aligners are used to improve teeth spacing and alignment. They are also commonly used to correct overbites. An overbite is a condition where the upper teeth extend too far past the individual’s lower teeth. You may want to fix your overbite due to a cosmetic reason, or if it irritates your tongue, gums, or teeth.

Currently, Invisalign is being used to treat mild to moderate overbites. The timeframe for overbite treatment using Invisalign depends on the medical circumstances of the patient. However, Invisalign may not be the best alternative to correct a severe overbite.

In this blog, we will explain exactly how Invisalign can fix an overbite. We will also explain why they may be the best alternative for you when compared to traditional braces.

What is an Overbite?

An overbite, also known as a deep bite or a Class II malocclusion, is a dental condition in which the upper teeth overlap significantly with the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. In other words, the upper front teeth extend vertically over the lower front teeth, covering them partially or completely.

While some degree of overbite is normal, an excessive overbite can result in dental problems. Some examples of these dental problems include misaligned teeth, jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and even speech problems.

What are the Types of Overbites?

There are two types of overbites, which include the following:

• Dental overbites
• Skeletal overbites

Here is a brief explanation of each of them:

Dental Overbites

A dental overbite is a type of malocclusion or misalignment of the teeth in which the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth vertically. This creates an excessive vertical overlap of the front teeth.

In other words, the upper front teeth protrude further forward than the lower front teeth, creating an overbite. Dental overbites can occur due to a variety of factors, such as genetics, thumb sucking, prolonged pacifier use, and abnormal jaw growth.

Skeletal Overbites

Skeletal overbite, also known as mandibular prognathism, is a type of malocclusion that occurs when the lower jaw is positioned too far back compared to the upper jaw, resulting in an excessive horizontal overlap of the front teeth. Unlike dental overbites, which are caused by misaligned teeth, skeletal overbites are caused by a discrepancy between the size and position of the upper and lower jaws.

Skeletal overbites are usually hereditary and can be observed in children as early as age six or seven. They can also be caused by traumatic injuries or developmental disorders. Skeletal overbites can cause a range of problems, such as difficulty chewing, speaking, and breathing, as well as facial asymmetry, jaw pain, and even sleep apnea in some cases.

What are the Treatment Options for Overbites?

The treatment options for overbites depend on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. Here are some of the most common treatment options:

• Dental braces – Braces are the most common orthodontic treatment used to correct dental overbites. They use wires and brackets to gradually move the teeth into the correct position. This process can take several months to several years, depending on the severity of the overbite.
• Clear aligners – Clear aligners are a popular alternative to traditional braces for correcting dental overbites. They use a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually move the teeth into the desired position. They are more discreet than braces, but may not be suitable for more severe cases.
• Orthodontic appliances – In addition to braces and clear aligners, orthodontic appliances such as headgear, bite plates, and palate expanders can also be used to correct overbites.
• Surgery – In cases of severe skeletal overbites, orthognathic surgery may be necessary to reposition the jaws. This type of surgery is usually performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in conjunction with orthodontic treatment.
• Extraction of teeth – In some cases, extraction of one or more teeth may be necessary to create enough space for the remaining teeth to be properly aligned.

It is important to consult with a qualified orthodontist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon to determine the best course of treatment for your individual case. They will evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment options to achieve the desired outcome.

Can Invisalign Fix an Overbite?

Invisalign is a type of clear aligner therapy that can be used to treat a variety of dental problems, including some types of overbites. However, whether Invisalign can fix an overbite depends on the severity and underlying cause of the overbite.

For mild to moderate dental overbites, Invisalign can be effective in correcting the position of the teeth and improving the overbite. The clear aligners are custom-made to gradually move the teeth into the correct position and are changed every two weeks to ensure continued progress.

However, for more severe skeletal overbites that involve a discrepancy between the size and position of the upper and lower jaws, Invisalign may not be the best treatment option. In such cases, a combination of orthodontic treatment and orthognathic surgery may be necessary to reposition the jaws and improve the overbite.

The Process of Using Invisalign to Fix an Overbite

Invisalign can fix an overbite by using a series of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually shift the teeth into their correct position. Here is how the process works:

• Consultation – First, you will consult with a dentist to determine whether Invisalign is a suitable treatment option for your overbite.
• Digital imaging – If Invisalign is recommended, your dentist will take digital impressions of your teeth using a scanner or a mold. These impressions are used to create a 3D digital model of your teeth, which is used to design your custom aligners.
• Treatment plan – Based on the 3D model of your teeth, your dentist will develop a treatment plan that outlines the specific movements that your teeth will make over the course of treatment. This treatment plan is used to create a series of custom aligners that will be used to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position.
• Wearing the aligners – You will wear each set of aligners for approximately two weeks, 20 - 22 hours per day. The aligners are removable but should be worn consistently for the best results.
• Progress check-ups – You will visit your dentist periodically to check on the progress of your treatment and receive your new set of aligners. The total length of treatment will vary depending on the severity of your overbite.

Invisalign can fix an overbite by gradually shifting the teeth into their correct position over time. The aligners apply gentle pressure on the teeth, causing them to move into the desired position. As the teeth move, the overbite gradually improves until it is corrected.

Can You Use Rubber Bands with Invisalign During Overbite Treatment?

In some cases, you can use rubber bands with Invisalign during overbite treatment. Rubber bands, also known as elastics, are a type of orthodontic appliance that is often used in conjunction with braces or Invisalign to correct overbites and other bite problems.

Rubber bands are used to apply additional force to the teeth and jaws, helping to improve the alignment of the teeth and correct the bite. They can be attached to hooks on the brackets of traditional braces or small attachments on Invisalign aligners.

If your overbite requires the use of rubber bands, your dentist will incorporate them into your treatment plan. They will provide you with instructions on how to attach the rubber bands to your aligners, and how often to change them.

It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions carefully to ensure that the rubber bands are being used effectively and safely. In some cases, the use of rubber bands with Invisalign may require additional attachments or adjustments to the aligners to ensure proper fit and alignment. Overall, the use of rubber bands with Invisalign can be an effective way to correct overbites and achieve a healthier, more functional bite.

Advantages of Using Invisalign to Fix an Overbite

There are several advantages to using Invisalign to fix an overbite, including the following:

• Aesthetic appeal – Invisalign aligners are clear and nearly invisible, making them a more attractive option for people who do not want to wear traditional braces. This can be particularly appealing for individuals who may feel self-conscious about the appearance of metal braces.
• Comfort – Invisalign aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable plastic material that is less likely to irritate the gums and cheeks, compared to traditional braces.
• Removable – Invisalign aligners can be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing, which can make oral hygiene easier and more effective.
• Customized – Invisalign aligners are custom-made for each individual patient. This means they are designed to fit comfortably and effectively, providing the best possible results.
• Predictable results – Invisalign treatment is planned using advanced computer software that can simulate the movement of the teeth and jaws over the course of treatment. This means that patients can see a virtual representation of what their teeth will look like at the end of treatment, giving them a clear understanding of the expected results.

Invisalign can be an effective and attractive option for correcting an overbite, providing numerous advantages over traditional braces. However, it is important to consult with a dentist to determine whether Invisalign is the best treatment option for your specific case.

How Long will it Take to Fix an Overbite Using Invisalign?

The length of time it takes to fix an overbite using Invisalign can vary depending on the severity of the overbite and other individual factors, such as the patient’s age and the extent of compliance with the treatment plan. However, on average, treatment time for an overbite with Invisalign is typically around 12 - 18 months.

During the initial consultation, your dentist will evaluate your specific case and provide an estimate of the expected treatment time. Your dentist will also create a custom treatment plan and provide you with a series of aligners that will be worn for a set amount of time before being replaced with the next set in the series. Ensure you follow your dentist’s instructions carefully and wear the aligners for the recommended period each day to achieve the best results.

While Invisalign treatment can be faster than traditional braces in some cases, it is important to keep in mind that the length of treatment will depend on the individual case. Factors such as the complexity of the overbite and the patient’s compliance with the treatment plan can affect the overall treatment time. Your dentist can provide you with a more accurate estimate of treatment time based on your individual case during your initial consultation.

The Cost of Treating an Overbite Using Invisalign

The cost of treating an overbite using Invisalign can vary depending on several factors, such as the severity of the overbite and the length of treatment. On average, the cost of Invisalign treatment for an overbite can range from $3,000 - $8,000. However, this cost can be higher or lower depending on the individual case and the specific treatment plan.

It is important to keep in mind that while the cost of Invisalign treatment may be higher than traditional braces, Invisalign offers numerous advantages, such as being nearly invisible and more comfortable to wear. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of Invisalign treatment, so it is a good idea to check with your insurance provider to see if you are eligible for coverage.

Find a La Puente Dentist Near Me

Invisalign can be an effective treatment option for correcting an overbite. As a nearly invisible and comfortable alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign offers numerous advantages for patients who want to improve the alignment of their teeth and achieve a healthier, more functional bite.

While the length of treatment will depend on the individual case, Invisalign can be faster than traditional braces in some cases. However, ensure you consult with a dentist to determine whether Invisalign is the best treatment option to fix your overbite.

We at La Puente Advanced Dentistry offer a variety of orthodontic treatment options, including Invisalign, to help our patients achieve the beautiful, healthy smile they deserve. Get in touch with us to schedule a consultation and learn more about how Invisalign can help fix your overbite. Call us today at 626-626-7075 for a free consultation.