Did you know that having a slight overbite is normal? You might have an ideal alignment if your upper teeth overlap your lower ones by about 1 to 2 millimeters and your upper and lower teeth fit together comfortably and function well.
Unfortunately, more severe overbites or other malocclusions, like underbites or open bites, can wear down your enamel unevenly or prematurely, increasing your vulnerability to tooth decay, gum disease, and other injuries. You can even develop a lisp or other changes to the way you speak and eat. It’s natural to wonder whether orthodontic services, like Invisalign, can effectively address the issue. If you’re considering this treatment, continue reading to learn more about it!
What is Invisalign?
This popular alternative to traditional braces utilizes clear plastic trays that fit snuggly over your teeth to gently reposition them over a designated period. You must wear them for 20 to 22 hours daily to prevent your pearly whites from reverting, and then after one to two weeks, you’ll be given a new set of trays to switch to. This method is ideal for correcting minor to moderate overcrowding and mild gaps that can make you feel overly self-conscious about the state of your smile.
Invisalign continues to gain popularity as more people realize it’s a comfortable and discreet way to obtain an evenly distributed grin. Plus, without brittle metal wires and brackets, there are no dietary restrictions to worry about.
Can Invisalign Address Malocclusions?
If your upper and lower arches don’t come together properly when you close your mouth, then you probably have some form of malocclusion, or bite misalignment. Not only can these conditions cause tooth decay and injuries, but they can also result in TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders and jaw pain if left unaddressed.
Thankfully, Invisalign can be used to adjust minor overbites, though doing so might require attachments called precision wings. These flaps are integrated onto the sides of your clear trays between the premolars and first molars. When you bite down, they hold the lower jaw in a forward position to maintain a healthy range of overlap.
What Can’t Invisalign Fix?
Clear aligners are perfect for mild to moderate overbites, but if you have a more severe issue, your dentist might recommend traditional orthodontics, instead. There are limitations to the manipulation of movement that can be achieved with the softer plastic material that sits over your teeth. Meanwhile, metal braces, wires, and bands allow your provider to fix even the most complex malocclusions.
If you’re unsure whether Invisalign is right for you, the best way to find out is to schedule a consultation with your dentist!
About the Practice
At Michelsen Dental, you benefit from a team of experts who work together to offer a full array of services under one roof, including Invisalign. They share 20+ years of combined experience helping improve patient’s quality of life by enhancing their oral health. They take the time to get to know your unique needs and concerns, then provide customized solutions to meet them. Their welcoming environment is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to improve patient comfort while delivering accurate treatment results. You can request a consultation on the website or call (714) 492-1169.
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