Invisalign® for Overbite

For years, braces and other traditional orthodontic devices were the primary options to treat crooked teeth. Today, more and more teens and adults visit Dr. Jay W. Chrisman and Dr. David D. Wyse to get Invisalign®, an invisible alternative to braces. With Invisalign, the brackets and wires of the past are replaced with comfortable aligners made of clear plastic.

Our dentists have helped numerous patients in the Bloomington, IL, area with Invisalign. It’s effective enough to treat minor tooth misalignments as well as overbites. Here, we’ll discuss how Invisalign can treat overbites, and how it compares to braces and other orthodontic procedures.

What Is an Overbite?

An overbite refers to cases in which the front teeth of the upper dental arch vertically overlap the front teeth of the lower dental arch. It’s healthy to have a slight overbite. In fact, an overbite of about 2mm is considered healthy. A pronounced overbite can lead to problems with biting, chewing, and overall smile aesthetics.

An overbite should not be confused with an overjet, which refers to the horizontal overlap of the upper teeth over the lower teeth. A slight overjet is healthy, but a pronounced overjet can give your smile a buck-toothed appearance.

How Invisalign Works

Invisalign is an orthodontic system that uses clear plastic aligner trays rather than brackets and wires. Patients wear their aligners at all times except when eating, drinking beverages other than cold water, and when brushing their teeth.

After two weeks, the patient discards their current Invisalign aligner and proceeds to the next aligner in the sequence. The pattern repeats until the patient’s teeth are gradually shifted into a better overall position.

Good Candidates for Invisalign

Many teens and adults have undergone Invisalign treatment at our Bloomington practice. When treating overbites, it’s typically best for patients who have a slight overbite caused by the position of their upper or lower teeth.

How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take?

The overall treatment time for Invisalign is comparable to braces. For most patients, they’ll need to wear their aligners for several months to one year to experience the full benefits of treatment. By the end of that time, they should no longer have an overbite, and have a much straighter and more appealing smile.

The Results of Invisalign

Thanks to Invisalign, individuals can experience the joys of a properly aligned smile. The teeth will be in a more ideal position, reducing pain and discomfort when biting and chewing. In addition, the appearance of the patient’s smile will be greatly improved, enhancing overall confidence.

When Is Traditional Orthodontics a Better Option?

While Invisalign is helpful for many patients with overbites, it is not always the best option. If an overbite is caused by poor jaw position or the shape of the dental arch, braces and other orthodontic options may be more ideal.

During your consultation at our practice, our dentists can assess your needs and determine if Invisalign can treat your overbite. We will develop a treatment plan just for you to help ensure lasting dental health and wellness.

Call Us Today to Schedule Your Consultation

If you suffer from an overbite and would like to learn about your different treatment options, we encourage you to get in touch with our Bloomington dental care center. You can contact our dental team online or schedule a consultation by phone at (309) 663-6393.