Can Invisalign Be Used to Correct Bite Problems?

Ever since its release, Invisalign has corrected more than 17 million smiles worldwide. These patients have not only achieved straighter, more attractive teeth but also better oral function and health. However, shifting crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth is one thing—altering your bite is quite another matter. Fortunately, Invisalign can handle most of these situations too!

Keep reading to learn what Invisalign can do for bite problems, how it works, and who should consider this treatment.

Which Bite Issues Can Invisalign Fix?

These are the types of bite problems that Invisalign treatment can help with:

• Overbite—when the upper teeth are in front of the lower teeth.
• Underbite—when the lower teeth are in front of the upper teeth.
• Crossbite—when there is a mixture of upper and lower teeth in front of the others.
• Open bite—when upper and lower teeth don’t touch at all.

Although traditional braces are still required for severe cases, Invisalign can be utilized to correct bite alignment issues. In other words, if your bite needs mild to moderate treatment, Invisalign could be a viable option for you!

How Does Invisalign Work?

Unlike traditional braces, which are adhered to the front surface of teeth, Invisalign takes advantage of clear plastic trays to shift teeth into their ideal alignment. These trays are worn for 20 to 22 hours every day, exerting gentle force without interfering with appearance or daily oral hygiene. The trays are removed only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and cleaning teeth and aligners.

For bite problems, aligners may also have attachments or use rubber bands similarly to normal braces. These additions help the aligners to make more efficient and drastic changes, like realigning how the bottom teeth match up with the top ones.

About every two weeks, the patient switches to the next set of aligners, bringing them one step closer to a perfectly straight smile.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

Other than having mild or moderate alignment issues, you may be in a good position for Invisalign if the following criteria are met:

• You have an otherwise healthy mouth (i.e., no cavities or infection).
• You are committed to wearing the aligners for at least 20 hours every day.
• You have discipline to keep track of your aligners and follow directions.
• You follow care instructions.
• You visit your dentist for check-in appointments according to your treatment plan.

In the end, the best way to know for certain whether Invisalign can correct your bite alignment problem is to meet with your dentist. After looking at your smile, they can put together a personalized treatment plan to meet your needs.

About the Practice

Amherst Dental Group has several dentists on staff who are qualified to perform Invisalign treatment. In fact, one has been certified since 2002! With decades of experience, our team can give you the straight results you want and resolve most misalignment with this cutting-edge option. If you would like to learn more about Invisalign or see if you are a good candidate, contact our Williamsville office online or call 716-689-8882.