Correct Your Overbite with Discreet Invisalign® Treatment By Stephen Malki on September 18, 2018

An overbite occurs when the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth when the jaw is closed. While having a slight overbite is normal, oral health problems arise when too much of the lower teeth are concealed by the upper teeth.

Invisalign® is a popular orthodontic treatment that straightens the teeth and corrects bite misalignment issues. Using a series of clear plastic trays, Invisalign can gradually shift your teeth and bite into proper alignment.

Here, Dr. Stephen J. Malki discusses Invisalign for overbite and how this treatment can help our River Edge, NJ patients.

What Problems Are Associated with Overbites?

An overbite can make it difficult to bite into or chew some foods, especially ones that are hard or sticky. Sometimes an overbite can be so uncomfortable that the patient avoids eating certain foods.

Overbites can also contribute to teeth grinding, a condition that is also called bruxism. Teeth grinding can lead to temporomandibular disorder (TMD), a condition in which the muscles and soft tissues supporting the jaw become stressed. TMD symptoms include headaches, facial and neck pain, and tooth damage.

Besides the potential oral health issues, overbites can cause patients to feel self-conscious about their appearance. You may be less inclined to smile or speak in an attempt to conceal your teeth.

How Does Invisalign Treat an Overbite?

Every two weeks, patients receive a new dental aligner. These series of aligners gently move the teeth and bite into proper position. The length of your treatment will depend on the severity of your misalignment issues. Most patients need about a year of treatment.

Why Invisalign for Overbite?

Invisalign dental trays are made of a clear plastic material and are virtually invisible when worn. This is a far more discreet way to correct an overbite, compared to traditional orthodontics, which relies on conspicuous wires and brackets to shift teeth.

Invisalign dental trays are also smooth, making them comfortable to wear. There is less of a risk of developing sores in the mouth due to the device irritating the soft tissues, a relatively common problem with traditional orthodontics.

Your Invisalign dental tray is also removable, and should be taken out when eating. This means you can enjoy all your favorite foods. Conversely, there are a number of food restrictions during traditional orthodontics treatment to prevent damage to the wires and brackets.

What Are the Results of Invisalign Treatment?

Invisalign patients will not only have a balanced bite, they will also have straightened teeth. In other words, in addition to overcoming your overbite and related oral health issues, you will experience the aesthetic benefit of a more attractive smile.

Am I Eligible for Invisalign?

Invisalign can overcome most mild to moderate bite and tooth alignment problems. Patients with severe misalignment or anatomical abnormalities contributing to an overbite may not be eligible for Invisalign. In such cases, traditional orthodontics may be the best route to addressing an overbite.