An overbite, also known as an overjet, is the percentage of lower teeth covered by upper teeth. Overbites can be slight to severe and can be caused by genetics, certain oral habits, or incorrect bone development. Invisalign, a brand of clear, removable teeth aligners, can help correct an overbite. [pullquote]Along with improving the cosmetic and aesthetic issues associated with an overbite, Invisalign can also lead to improved oral health.[/pullquote] Invisalign teeth aligners do a similar job to braces, without the metal brackets and food restrictions. The clear plastic trays fit tightly over your teeth, adjusting the jaw or teeth as needed over time. The trays can be taken out before you eat, allowing you to eat whatever foods you desire. Invisalign tends to be more comfortable than traditional braces and are an excellent alternative to braces for teens and adults who want to avoid unsightly metal in their mouth.
When an overbite is caused by a misalignment of the lower teeth or crowding of the lower teeth, a dentist can use Invisalign to slowly move the teeth into the correct position. This will correct both the cosmetic issues of overcrowding and the overbite itself. The time it takes to correct an overbite with Invisalign may vary for each patient.
An overbite or overjet can also be caused by flaring of the upper teeth. Flaring occurs when the upper teeth protrude out toward the lips, instead of pointing down toward the lower teeth. This can cause the upper teeth to cover the lower teeth. A dentist can use Invisalign to return the upper teeth to a straight up-down position, significantly reducing the overbite.
Along with improving the cosmetic and aesthetic issues associated with an overbite, Invisalign can also lead to improved oral health. Crowded, crooked, flared or otherwise badly aligned teeth can make it difficult to brush or floss properly. Once the issues are corrected with Invisalign, the patient can floss and brush with ease around each tooth, improving health and preventing future issues.
For more information on how Invisalign can benefit your smile, call our team at Georgian Dental®, serving Orillia Ontario, at 1-888-739-2975 to schedule a consultation.