Invisalign is an effective orthodontic system that uses clear medical-grade plastic aligners to move teeth into new positions. This system can correct mild to moderate overbites.
What Is an Overbite?
An overbite is a type of tooth misalignment or malocclusion. With an overbite, the upper front teeth protrude beyond the lower front teeth.
While many people want to correct their overbites to improve the aesthetics of their smile, the condition also has associated oral health complications. These complications can include the following:
- Pain when chewing
- Breathing difficulties
- TMJ (temporomandibular disorders) or jaw pain
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
- Speech issues
How Invisalign Works
Medical literature indicates that Invisalign is effective for certain types of overbites. Invisalign may also correct mild to moderate overbites faster than braces.
When you begin Invisalign treatment, your dentist will take 3-D scans of your mouth to determine the shape, size, and placement of your teeth. They use these scans to make a highly detailed digital model of your mouth.
The dentist uses the model to plan a sequence of tooth movements that will reduce your overbite. The dentist creates a series of aligners that gently move your teeth to new positions.
You will change your aligners every one to two weeks as directed by your dentist. You must keep the aligners in for at least 20 to 22 hours daily to receive a positive treatment outcome.
The dentist may also use rubber bands in conjunction with Invisalign to achieve the most effective tooth movement. The bands help to apply more pressure to move the teeth. The dentist may apply resin buttons to the teeth to attach the rubber bands.
Treatment Length
Overbite treatment with Invisalign typically takes anywhere from six months to two years. Teens may see faster correction than adults since their jawbones are still developing. Adults can still receive the treatment, but it takes longer.
Advantages of Invisalign
Comfortable
The aligners are smooth plastic and have no sharp metal edges. After becoming accustomed to wearing the aligners, many people do not notice them.
Discreet
Wearing braces can sometimes attract unwanted attention. Invisalign allows you to keep your orthodontic treatment private.
Better Oral Hygiene
Brushing around braces can be challenging. Some braces patients develop tooth decay and gum disease. Invisalign trays come out when it is time to brush and floss your teeth, protecting your oral health.
No Dietary Restrictions
Since the aligners come out when you eat or drink, you do not have to avoid certain foods like candy, nuts, and popcorn. Ensure you clean your teeth and aligners completely before replacing them in your mouth.
Equally Effective
If you have a severe overbite, your dentist may recommend getting braces. However, in most cases, Invisalign works well.
Call Lindenwold Dental
Correcting an overbite with Invisalign can brighten your smile and reduce the chance of developing certain oral health complications. Call Lindenwold Dental at 856-783-3777 to schedule an appointment for a consultation.