Aligning More Than Just Teeth: Can Invisalign Fix Your Bite?  

When teeth do not line up, multiple problems can occur, including enamel erosion and jaw pain. An overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite can make daily tasks like eating increasingly difficult over time; however, with Invisalign clear aligners, there may be a way to address the issue once and for all. Keep reading to find out if this non-metal solution is enough to realign your bite and if so, how a new smile can be achieved.

Can a Poorly Aligned Bite Be Fixed with Invisalign?

It depends. Invisalign is known to address mild to moderate bite misalignment. However, treating extreme cases may only be successful if traditional orthodontics are used.

Your dentist will need to examine your bite using high-resolution technology, as this will create a more in-depth view of the kind of misalignment you’re experiencing and whether it can be improved with the help of clear aligners.

The good news is that the majority of cases can be treated with Invisalign. But the real question patients tend to ask is, “How does it work?”

How Invisalign Can Realign Your Bite

It doesn’t matter if you have an overbite, crossbite, underbite, or open bite, the use of Invisalign will allow you to see dramatic results that not only improve your aesthetics but also your oral and overall health. Below is a brief explanation of how these clear aligners can address different bite problems:

• When treating an overbite, Invisalign can push protruding teeth backward. Additional attachments and rubber bands may be necessary, but the process will ensure your pearly whites move into their correct place for a healthier bite.
• When dealing with an underbite, Invisalign can be used to align the teeth, but elastics may also be necessary to achieve ideal placement. Generally, underbites occur because of improper jaw development/positioning. Addressing this problem when a patient is young tends to lead to more successful results in the future.
• Treating a crossbite with Invisalign may only be possible if you’re dealing with single-tooth crossbites. Those related to the jaw may require more invasive orthodontics (traditional braces).
• When it comes to an open bite, Invisalign often proves more beneficial than metal braces because of staging. By targeting certain teeth and manipulating them in a way that will cause them to move at a specific time, successful bite correction can be achieved. This type of technique is not possible with traditional braces.

Bite misalignment is just one of the many issues Invisalign can address, so if you are ready to finally do something about your overbite, don’t wait to seek help. With the help of clear aligners, you’ll enjoy life without causing further damage to your smile.

About the Author
Dr. Sam Je is a skilled dentist in Lancaster who is certified in Invisalign and can treat many of the most common bite misalignment problems. Using this clear aligner system to improve patients’ smiles, especially those suffering from an overbite, underbite, open bite, or crossbite, he can create a more enjoyable experience that leaves individuals feeling more confident about their smile. If you need help to avoid additional dental pain and damage because of a poorly aligned bite, visit our website or call (469) 729-7707.