Invisalign is a comfortable, convenient way to align your teeth. Using smooth medical-grade plastic aligners, Invisalign moves teeth gradually into ideal positions.
Most patients know that Invisalign can correct common orthodontic issues like gapped or crooked teeth. They may be surprised that Invisalign can fix minor to moderate bite problems, including overbite.
How Invisalign Works
To begin treatment with Invisalign, the dentist first takes digital impressions using a handheld intraoral scanner. The scanner moves easily around the patient's mouth, creating a complete 3-D model of teeth and oral tissues.
The dentist makes a digital model of the final tooth positions and creates a series of plastic aligners to move the teeth gradually. The patient changes aligners approximately every two weeks to facilitate tooth movement.
After 12 to 18 months, the treatment is complete. The patient must wear a retainer as prescribed to keep their teeth in the new positions.
How Invisalign Fixes Overbites
Standard Invisalign treatment is excellent for aligning teeth but needs a few extra steps to correct an overbite. The dentist places small composite resin "buttons" on the teeth. These buttons hold orthodontic elastics similar to those used with braces. The elastics pull the teeth into place over time.
Advantages of Invisalign
Faster Than Braces
Invisalign takes, on average, just 12-18 months, as opposed to 18 months to three years for braces.
Discreet
Many older patients are unhappy with how much attention they receive while wearing braces. Invisalign allows patients to keep their treatment private.
Comfortable
Braces have sharp edges and wires to irritate tender oral tissues. In contrast, Invisalign is smooth and comfortable. Even the buttons that treat overbites are smooth and will not irritate the cheeks.
Versatile
Invisalign can treat almost as many orthodontic conditions as traditional braces. Some conditions like jaw malformation and impacted teeth need treatment with braces.
Better Oral Health
Anyone with braces knows how challenging it can be to keep their teeth clean. Food and plaque quickly become caught between the teeth and wires. This problem can lead to a higher chance of tooth decay and gum disease. Invisalign comes out for cleaning so patients can maintain a healthy smile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
How do I know what my teeth will look like after Invisalign?
Your dentist will show you the digital model before, during, and after the complete treatment. You will be able to see your improved smile.
Does Invisalign hurt?
Invisalign puts constant, gentle pressure on the teeth. You may feel minor discomfort when you first receive Invisalign and as your teeth adjust to each new set of aligners.
Call 376 Dental Studio
If you want to learn more about what Invisalign can do to brighten your smile, please call our Waltham, MA, office at 781-373-3068. We can schedule a consultation to help you understand whether Invisalign is the right solution for your overbite.