Invisalign is a leading orthodontic treatment for adults and teenagers. Effective at straightening crooked teeth, crowded teeth, gapped teeth, and slanted teeth, Invisalign can also help with problems with a bite including an overbite. Even better news? Invisalign technology has advanced so that it can often achieve the same results as traditional braces with a shorter treatment time. Here’s what to know about how Invisalign can fix an overbite.
What Causes an Overbite?
The majority of people who have an overbite are genetically predisposed to the condition where the top teeth and upper jaw lay over the bottom teeth and lower jaw. Known as a Class II malocclusion, overbites are the most common bite and alignment issue affecting children, teens, and adults. Other people may develop an overbite as the result of habits developed during infancy and childhood, including tongue thrusting, thumb or finger sucking, or prolonged use of a pacifier. Premature loss of baby teeth or sleep apnea may also cause an overbite.
How Invisalign Works to Fix an Overbite
Invisalign offers the best of tried-and-true orthodontic science with the capabilities afforded by state-of-the-art 3D imaging, graphics, and technology. There are a couple of ways that your orthodontist can correct an overbite with Invisalign.
Invisalign clear aligners can be designed to include what is known as “mandibular advancement.” The aligners are made of the same clear, smooth, comfortable BPA-free plastic as traditional Invisalign trays. But, they include a feature called precision wings. The precision wings are crafted from a patented material called SmartTrack®.
These wings are placed between the first molars and the premolars. With each bit, the precision wings hold the lower jaw in a forward position. Over time the lower jaw continues to incrementally shift forward, reducing the space between the upper and lower jaw. As treatment progresses, the lower jaw will grow into the proper size to align properly with the upper jaw.
Elastic bands may also be used in conjunction with Invisalign clear plastic aligners to correct a bite issue. The elastic bands can attach to the aligners themselves, or small buttons placed on your teeth. Consistent wearing of your elastics will then begin to correct your overbite.
Orthodontic Treatment for Teens and Adults in Andover, MA
At Andover Orthodontics, Dr. Broccoli and his experienced team provide complete orthodontic treatments to children, teens, and adults. From early intervention in children, through adulthood, our team provides compassionate, experienced service to patients from Andover, Burlington, Boxford, Middleton, and surrounding communities. Contact us today at 978-475-0450 , or request an appointment online.