Invisalign is an incredibly popular teeth straightening treatment that can resolve a wide range of dental issues. One question we are often asked is whether Invisalign aligners can fix underbites. Today we’re going to take a deeper look into the topic of Invisalign and underbite solutions to help you decide whether this is a good option for your personal dental concerns. Our team will be here to guide you every step of the way and support you on your teeth straightening journey, so don’t hesitate to contact us today for more information about the services we offer.
What is an Underbite?
Before we dive into the topic of whether Invisalign can fix an underbite, you might want to clarify what we mean when we use the term underbite. An underbite, which is known in the medical field as a Class III malocclusion, is when the lower teeth and jaw protrude in front of your upper teeth when the mouth is in a closed position. As with any type of dental issue, you might find that this condition is mild, or you may have a severe underbite that impacts your speech, chewing, and oral health. Many patients are self-conscious about their underbites, which is why they turn to us for support or want to consider Invisalign for underbites.
When it comes to the causes of underbites, for many people, this is simply due to their genetics or abnormal jawbone development. However, thumb-sucking and an extended use of a dummy in childhood could also be the root cause of an underbite. In the past, metal braces were the most common option for anyone with an underbite. In really severe cases, jaw surgery was also offered. However, now that Invisalign clear aligners are a more readily available option, this has become a very popular alternative.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign braces are a brand of clear aligners that are designed to gradually straighten your teeth. They are a much more discreet option than metal braces, which is why they are particularly popular with teenagers and young adults. The removable traces that are part of the treatment are custom-made for each patient, using 3D scans of their teeth to map out the treatment plan and aligners for the months ahead. Each aligner is tailor-made using advanced imaging software, creating a personalised treatment path that will help to give each of our patients their desired results.
If you are wondering how does Invisalign fix underbites, the aligners gently apply consistent pressure to shift your teeth into the desired final position. You’ll receive a series of aligners, which you wear for one to two weeks each before you move on to the next set. The length of time that it will take to fix your underbite will vary based on its severity and the complexity of your case, but your dentist will be able to advise you about the timeline for your treatment during your first consultation.
Can Invisalign Treat Underbites?
In many cases, Invisalign can treat underbites effectively. However, the success and suitability of this treatment all depend on the nature and severity of the underbite. Invisalign is effective for correcting underbites caused by dental misalignment rather than skeletal issues. If your teeth are what are causing your underbite, such as tilted teeth or incorrectly positioned teeth, then Invisalign can help to slowly realign them into a better position. If you need extra pressure to help support this realignment, orthodontists may use elastics or special attachments to apply this pressure. Another option is interproximal reduction, which helps to slim the teeth down just slightly to create more space for the process.
For underbites caused by a discrepancy in jaw size or position, Invisalign may not be the only type of treatment you need to fix your underbite. In these cases, a combination of treatments might be necessary. Some patients need jaw surgery to reposition the jawbone, followed by Invisalign to perfect the alignment of the teeth. Younger patients can have early intervention in some situations, which can help guide their jaw development to a healthier position. This can reduce the chances of jaw surgery later in life and be more comfortable for the patient.
Invisalign offers many benefits as a treatment for underbites as it’s a discreet treatment which is also comfortable for the patient. The treatment plan will be fully customised to fit your needs and end goals, but you’ll want to work with an experienced Invisalign dentist to ensure this is the best treatment option for your underbite. In severe cases, Invisalign may be paired with another type of treatment to get the results you desire. Are you interested in learning more about Invisalign as a tool to fix underbites? Contact us today to learn more about Invisalign clear aligners or to book your initial appointment with our team.