Can Invisalign® Fix Overbites and Other Bite Issues?
When it comes to achieving a healthy, balanced smile, addressing bite issues is just as important as straightening teeth. Many people wonder if can effectively correct overbites, underbites, and other bite problems. Our Invisalign orthodontist in Coralville and Iowa City, IA, uses the latest technology, including Invisalign SmartForce attachments, to treat a variety of bite concerns with clear aligners.
Let’s explore how Invisalign works for these issues and what you can expect during clear aligner treatment.
Understanding Bite Issues
A bite issue, or malocclusion, refers to the improper alignment of the upper and lower teeth.
Common types of bite problems include:
- Overbite: When the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth.
- Underbite: When the lower teeth protrude past the upper teeth.
- Crossbite: When some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than outside.
- Open Bite: When the upper and lower teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed.
- Crowding or Spacing: While not a bite issue in itself, these conditions can contribute to bite misalignment.
Left untreated, these problems can lead to tooth wear, jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and even speech issues.
Can Invisalign Fix Overbites and Other Bite Issues?
Yes, Invisalign is an effective solution for many bite problems, including overbites. are custom-made to gradually shift teeth into their optimal positions. Using advanced 3D imaging, Dr. Mergen creates a precise treatment plan to address the unique needs of your bite.
For more complex issues, Invisalign treatment often incorporates SmartForce attachments, small, tooth-colored devices bonded to specific teeth. These attachments provide additional pressure and anchor points for dental aligners, helping to guide teeth into their ideal positions.
For example:
- Overbites: SmartForce attachments help aligners move teeth vertically to reduce overlap between the upper and lower teeth.
- Underbites and Crossbites: These attachments work to adjust the positioning of teeth and jaw alignment more effectively.
- Open Bites: Attachments assist in closing gaps between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is at rest.
SmartForce attachments are virtually invisible and designed to blend seamlessly with your teeth, ensuring treatment remains discreet.
Advantages of Invisalign for Bite Issues
Invisalign offers several benefits compared to traditional braces, which makes it a popular option for patients of all ages.
The main advantages of Invisalign for treating bite issues include:
- Discreet Appearance: The clear aligners and tooth-colored attachments make Invisalign nearly invisible, perfect for adults and teens seeking a subtle solution.
- Enhanced Precision with SmartForce Attachments: Attachments allow for more complex movements that aligners alone may not achieve, expanding Invisalign’s capability to treat challenging bite problems.
- Comfort and Convenience: Invisalign aligners and attachments are smooth and minimally invasive, and the aligners are removable, allowing for unrestricted eating and easy oral hygiene.
- Customizable Treatment: Each aligner and attachment is tailored to your specific dental structure, ensuring precise and predictable results.
- Improved Oral Health: Correcting bite issues reduces the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw strain caused by misalignment.
Candidates for Invisalign Treatment
In general, most people are candidates for Invisalign clear aligners. However, to be sure, we recommend scheduling a consultation with our Invisalign orthodontist in Coralville and Iowa City, IA. Dr. Mergen would be more than happy to evaluate your smile and determine if you’re a candidate for clear aligner treatment.
You may be a candidate for Invisalign if you have misaligned teeth and jaws. Likewise, you must have good discipline to consistently wear clear aligners 20 to 22 hours per day. That way, you stay on track with Invisalign treatment.
Schedule an Invisalign Consultation
If you’re struggling with an overbite, underbite, or other bite problem, Invisalign combined with SmartForce attachments could be the solution you’ve been looking for. Our Invisalign orthodontists in Coralville and Iowa City, IA, are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile. Call one of our Mergen Orthodontics locations or fill out our online contact form to get started.