Clear Aligners for Overbites and Underbites
Clear aligners, like Invisalign®, can help correct overbites and underbites. An overbite occurs when the upper teeth extend past the lower teeth too far. An underbite occurs when the lower teeth extend beyond the upper teeth when the mouth is closed.
If the overbite or underbite is severe, traditional braces may be the better option.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
The time it takes to fix underbites and overbites using clear aligners depends on a few factors including:
- The complexity of the condition.
- The patient’s discipline.
- Wearing the aligners correctly as prescribed.
The average treatment time for clear aligners is between 12 to 18 months, which is shorter than that of traditional braces. However, many patients begin to see results well before that point.
What Clear Aligners Cannot Fix
The dental issues that clear aligners cannot fix include complex malocclusions (misalignments) that require tooth extractions and cases of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Traditional braces can help treat complex cases and is still an option for these patients.
Clear aligners have been linked to TMJ issues, as it can exacerbate symptoms such as jaw pain. Patients with gum disease or tooth decay are not good candidates for clear aligners.
How Clear Aligners Work
Clear aligner treatment involves using a series of removable custom trays. They are transparent to make them less noticeable. The dentist adjusts the flexible trays to increase pressure on the teeth and move them slowly into place. This way, the aligners correct the wearer’s bite over time.
To achieve the best results, the wearer must keep the aligners on for 20 to 22 hours every day for one or two weeks each. After one to two weeks the tray will no longer feel tight. Once that happens, you will know it is time to progress to a new tray that is slightly different from the previous one. Your custom trays will be numbered so you know exactly which order to use them.
When to Use Clear Aligners
Although there are dental issues that clear aligners cannot treat, they are a good option for:
- Treating mild to severe teeth misalignments.
- Correcting teeth gaps and crowding.
- Treating crossbites, overbites, and underbites.
The wearer can remove them whenever, making them convenient to use and easier to clean compared to the traditional braces that can’t be removed. The dentist will assess the patient’s dental condition to determine if they are a good candidate for aligners.
If you are a candidate for clear aligner treatment, the dental assistant will take X-rays and impressions of your teeth. The dentist will use this information to create your customized treatment plan. You will visit the dentist throughout the treatment process to check your progress.
For more information on whether clear aligners can help correct your overbite or underbite, visit Jonny Fisher DDS at our office in Pullman, Washington. Call (509) 383-8300 today to schedule an appointment.
