If you or your teen need to correct an imperfect smile, there is a high probability that you may have a choice in treatment. Today, both Invisalign and braces can correct most orthodontic conditions, including an overbite or an underbite. Read on to learn how Invisalign is used to treat an overbite or underbite.
Treating an Overbite or Underbite with Invisalign
As align technology has advanced, more people than ever are candidates for Invisalign treatment, including those with an overbite or underbite. Although most people are familiar with the invisible trays used to correct crooked, slanted, or gapped teeth, you may not be aware that Invisalign offers “precision wings,” or that elastics may be part of your treatment.
Precision wings provide what is known as “mandibular advancement.” The wings are built into your alignment trays. They are positioned between the premolars and the first molars in the back of your mouth. When wearing Invisalign trays with precision wings, your lower jaw will be held forward as you bite down, shifting your jaw into proper alignment. Over time, your lower jaw will naturally position itself in this forward position, eliminating the overbite.
Elastics may also be used in conjunction with Invisalign to correct an overbite or an underbite.
Elastics are tiny rubber bands that connect your upper and lower jaw. These bands correct bite issues by applying extra pressure on specific teeth to move the upper and lower jaws into alignment.
To correct an overbite, the elastics are typically attached to your upper canines and your lower molars. To treat an underbite, your elastics typically attach to your top back molars and connect to your lower canines.
If you have a severe overbite or underbite, your orthodontist may recommend braces instead of Invisalign. Occasionally, an underbite that results from a large lower jaw, may require orthodontic surgery to correct.
Does My Overbite or Underbite Need to be Corrected?
An overbite or underbite is not just a cosmetic concern. The misalignment of the jaw can lead to various problems with both oral health and oral function. For example, an overbite can lead to problems with breathing, chewing, and biting into food. An untreated overbite may also cause jaw pain, head or neck pain, or tooth pain. It can also cause excess wear and pressure on the teeth, resulting in tooth decay (cavities), chipped teeth, broken teeth, and gum disease. Moreover, teeth that protrude are also at increased risk of injury and may lead to speech problems, and problems with self-esteem.
An underbite may cause all of the same problems. It is also known to cause temporomandibular joint disorder, known as TMJ or TMD. Furthermore, an untreated underbite can lead to misshapen teeth, obstructive sleep apnea, and facial pain caused by jaw strain. Those who suffer from a severe underbite often have difficulty biting and chewing food.
Book an Orthodontic Consultation in Cos Cob, CT
Orthodontic treatment is custom-tailored to your specific needs and goals. To book a consultation to learn more about correcting a bite issue with Invisalign, call 203-625-9888. Dr. Garrick F. Wong is Google 5-Star-reviewed orthodontist, serving teens and adults from greater Greenwich. To best accommodate busy patients, Dr. Wong begins seeing patients at 7:00 am Mon - Thursday. He sees patients until 7 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Request your appointment today.