Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, “Hmm, my upper teeth seem to overlap my lower teeth a lot.” That’s what we call an overbite. It’s actually quite common, but how do you fix an overbite if it’s problematic? Can you use Invisalign clear aligners for an overbite? Your go-to Triangle-area orthodontist, Dr. VanderWall, will unpack the answers to these questions here.
What Is An Overbite Exactly?
Before we talk about how to fix an overbite, let’s first answer, “What is an overbite?” An overbite is a type of malocclusion — or teeth misalignment — where your upper dental arch overlaps your lower dental arch too much. It’s normal for the top teeth to overlap a little, up to three millimeters of overlap is considered normal. But more than that is regarded as an overbite.
We should mention that an overbite of the whole jaw differs from “buck teeth,” or protruding front teeth, which describes the top two front teeth sticking out over the lower teeth. But buck teeth can be part of an overbite (and fixed along with it).
Invisalign For An Overbite
Now, enter clear aligners – the modern, almost invisible solution to teeth straightening. When they first appeared in the orthodontic world, they were only effective for moderate cases of teeth misalignment. But today, with the expertise of an experienced Invisalign® orthodontist like Dr. VanderWall, Invisalign can address severe and complex cases. So, can Invisalign clear aligners fix an overbite? The short answer: Yes! Let’s talk about that in more detail.
The clear aligner process will straighten teeth and bites through a series of custom-made, snug-fitting, BPA-free plastic trays that fit over teeth and gently shift them into the desired position. Your Invisalign orthodontist, Dr. VanderWall, will digitally design a custom treatment plan that maps out every tooth movement and the number of trays you will use to achieve your final result.
How to fix an overbite with clear aligners? For an overbite, the aligners focus on moving the upper teeth back while bringing the lower teeth into a more forward position. Your Invisalign treatment for an overbite will include little “buttons” on the clear aligners where you’ll attach Invisalign elastics that connect your upper and lower arches to align your bite. These Invisalign elastics function much the same way as braces rubber bands.
In cases of a severe overbite, called a deep bite, Dr. VanderWall might suggest orthognathic surgery first to help move the jaws into alignment before fixing teeth with Invisalign.
Invisalign for an overbite will require wearing them for 22 hours a day and switching to a new set of clear aligners every couple of weeks. You’ll also check in with Dr. VanderWall every 6-8 weeks so he can ensure your tooth movements are on track. But rest assured, all that time, patience, and diligence will pay off in a stunning Invisalign overbite “before and after” that will leave you smiling big!
Say Goodbye to Your Overbite With Invisalign and VanderWall Orthodontics
Now that you can answer “What is an overbite?” and know how to fix an overbite with Invisalign, take the first step in getting the beautifully aligned smile you’ve always wanted. Get in touch with your Triangle area orthodontist if you’re considering Invisalign for an overbite and find out if you’re a candidate. Our expert, friendly team at VanderWall Orthodontics is all about designing a custom, healthier smile that’s uniquely you!
Schedule your free initial consultation at one of our offices in Raleigh, Cary, and Durham, NC.
