Can Invisalign Fix an Overbite?
Invisalign is an effective orthodontic system that combines comfort, discretion, and speed with excellent results. Invisalign can correct minor to moderate bite issues, including overbites.
How Invisalign Works
Invisalign works by designing a series of clear plastic aligners that gradually shift your teeth. To custom-fit Invisalign, the dentist uses a sophisticated intraoral camera to scan oral hard and soft tissues. The dentist uses these scans to plan the movement of each tooth over time.
Patients wear each aligner for about one to two weeks and then switch to the next one in the series. As each tooth moves, patients can see the results taking shape.
Patients must wear aligners for at least 22 hours daily to see results. Wearing the aligners less consistently may lead to delays or failed treatment.
Advantages of Invisalign
Private Treatment
Many teen and adult patients feel frustrated with the extra attention drawn by braces. However, when you are wearing Invisalign, most people will not notice. You can receive discreet orthodontic treatment.
Comfortable Aligners
The smooth, clear, medical-grade plastic aligners have no sharp corners or wires. They fit flush to the teeth, creating a natural look and feel.
Better Oral Health
Dentists associate Invisalign with better oral health outcomes than traditional braces. Invisalign comes out to eat, drink, and care for your teeth, eliminating the problems of cleaning around brackets and wires.
No Diet Restrictions
Invisalign patients can eat what they like. Foods like candy, nuts, and popcorn stay on the menu, though patients must clean their teeth thoroughly after each meal or snack.
How Invisalign Corrects Overbites
Invisalign can manage overbites by adjusting tooth positions. To correct an overbite, the dentist may need to apply "buttons" made of composite bonding material to your teeth. These buttons will hold elastic bands that connect your upper and lower teeth, enhancing the corrective effect.
The buttons typically go on the lower molars and upper canines. Over time, the elastic bands help to pull your teeth into position and correct your overbite.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
How long does Invisalign take?
Invisalign takes about 12 to 18 months to work. The system may require more time to correct an overbite.
Can I eat or drink with my aligners in?
You must remove your aligners every time you eat or drink to avoid staining and damaging them. Ensure you keep your aligners in a case close at hand when you eat or drink to avoid misplacing them. After your meal, thoroughly clean your teeth and the aligners before replacing them.
Call College Street Smiles
A minor to moderate overbite used to require braces, but you have new options. Invisalign treatment continues to advance to the point where it can treat orthodontic bite issues. Please call our Dickson, TN, office at 615-446-7878 to schedule a consultation with one of our expert doctors.