Overbite problems are one of the most common orthodontic cases. They range from mild (i.e. the patient feels it is slightly affecting their appearance and oral health) to severe (i.e. the patient is finding it hard to eat, experiences pain in the jaw and face and cannot smile normally). Overbite can be hereditary but can also be caused by many reasons, including thumb sucking and nail-biting. The big question is: can Invisalign fix overbite at any stage of a patient’s life?
Can Invisalign fix overbite?
How Invisalign works is a pretty simple and straightforward process. Basically, it is a process where you wear clear, removable aligners that will straighten your teeth in a gradual way. Unlike braces, you won’t need brackets or wires. The Invisalign aligners are subtle as they are nearly invisible and fit on your teeth in a way that doesn’t bother you as much as braces. Also, the cost of Invisalign compared to braces is not very much higher.
Now, does Invisalign work for overbite? It all depends on the severity of the overbite, the age of the patient, and whether the patient can comply with the treatment or not. Invisalign mostly treats mild overbite cases but is increasingly becoming an option for a more severe overbite.
Can Invisalign fix a 100% overbite?
Invisalign corrects most overbite problems. 100% overbite is when your top teeth cover your bottom teeth completely. Your orthodontist will assess whether you need Invisalign or braces, but Invisalign can fix a 100% overbite problem.
Can Invisalign fix Class 2 overbite?
A Class 2 overbite means your overbite is quite severe. In such extreme cases, your orthodontist might recommend braces, extractions, or repositioning. Invisalign aligners might not be the best option here.
Can Invisalign fix overbite without bands?
Invisalign aligners can sometimes require additional elastics and bands. It all depends on the type of bite and its severity.
Can Invisalign fix overbite in adults?
Even though it is usually recommended to fix overbite problems in younger years (while the jaw is still developing), Invisalign can still fix overbite in adults. Provided the adult patient is compliant with the treatment and cares for their aligners properly (How to clean Invisalign article), the time the treatment takes can be influenced.
How does Invisalign fix overbite?
Through your Invisalign treatment, you will receive a series of removable trays (aligners) made of clear plastic (read more about what Invisalign is here - What is Invisalign). Fixing overbite with Invisalign mainly revolves around consistently wearing your aligners 20 to 22 hours a day, and cleaning them properly. These aligners are made to place pressure on the teeth to push them into a new position that would realign your teeth and fix the overbite. Over time, you will notice a change in your smile as your overbite will lessen and give way to a straighter smile! All worth the cost, which you can check details about here (Invisalign cost article).
Is Invisalign or braces better for overbite?
As most patients are only familiar with braces, they often wonder “does Invisalign help with overbite?”. It may seem too good to be true but Invisalign braces are being used more than braces. Invisalign and traditional braces are both used for the same goal: gradual teeth straightening. Apart from the Invisalign vs braces cost, there are many factors to consider when deciding - alongside your orthodontist - which one to choose. While Invisalign is usually effective for mild bite problems, it has been improved and is now equipped with bands and elastics. This allows it to treat even more cases of overbite. There are many things to consider when debating braces and Invisalign. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages (including speed of treatment, appearance, lifestyle, and cost).
Invisalign for overbite: How long does it take to complete the treatment?
Will Invisalign fix overbite quickly? It certainly depends on the severity of your overbite, but also on patient compliance. Following your treatment diligently plays a huge role in its effectiveness. Aligners must be worn 22 hours a day, cleaned well, and appointments to change trays must be attended. Invisalign treatment can take from 6 to 22 months, depending on the factors mentioned.
3 successful Invisalign before and after pictures
For the image to be clearer in your mind, here are some before and after pictures to show you the results of Invisalign on overbite.
Case 1
Case 2
Case 3
Final Points about overbite & Invisalign
So, can Invisalign fix overbite? In most cases, the answer is yes! Invisalign has increasingly shown effective results in correcting mild to moderate overbites. More severe cases are mostly treated with traditional braces. It is up to you and your orthodontist to decide. Fixing your overbite problems with Invisalign is effective, provided you comply with the treatment and your orthodontist guidelines.
