With Invisalign clear aligners, it’s possible to straighten teeth without needing to wear highly visible metal braces. But are crooked teeth the only kind of orthodontic issue that Invisalign can correct? Could the treatment also potentially be used to address the alignment of your bite? Below is a closer look at how Invisalign works and whether it could be a good solution for your bite problems.
How Does Invisalign Work?
After your dentist has thoroughly examined your mouth and learned more about your specific alignment problems, they will provide you with a series of Invisalign aligners that have been customized for your unique mouth. Each aligner will exert small amounts of pressure on your teeth, gradually moving them toward better positions.
The aligners only work while you’re wearing them, so you will need to plan on keeping them in your mouth for 20 to 22 hours every day. On top of that, you will typically wear each aligner for about 2 weeks before switching to the next one in the series. Depending on the severity of your alignment issues, the treatment can potentially take anywhere from 12 to 18 months.
So, Can Invisalign Correct Bite Problems?
In many cases, the answer is yes. Invisalign can be used to address a wide variety of bite problems, such as:
- An overbite that causes the upper teeth to stick out too far in front of the lower teeth.
- An underbite where the lower teeth are in front of the upper teeth when you bite down.
- A crossbite where some of your bottom teeth are seated in front of the upper teeth.
- An open bite where your upper and bottom teeth don’t make contact with each other when you close your mouth.
Note that the complexity of your particular bite issue matters. Invisalign typically works best for correcting mild or moderate bite problems. More severe orthodontic issues often call for traditional braces. Your dentist will need to take a closer look at the current state of your mouth before they can help you determine which orthodontic solution is right for you.
Why Should You Choose Invisalign for Correcting Your Bite Problems?
As a solution for bite problems, Invisalign has several benefits that can make it an attractive alternative to traditional braces:
- They are highly discreet when worn, to the point where most people won’t even realize that you have them.
- They are made out of a smooth plastic, so they’re less likely to cause abrasions in your mouth compared to brackets and wires.
- They can be removed at any time, allowing you to eat whatever you want and brush your teeth like you normally would.
Do you have a bite problem that’s taking a toll on your quality of life? If so, now is a great time to schedule an appointment with your dentist to find out whether Invisalign is right for you.
About the Author
Dr. Andrew R. Glynn studied dentistry at The Ohio State University, and he has served as a dentist in the Air Force. He has completed continuing education in clear aligners as well as a variety of other subjects. At Glynn Dental of Reynoldsburg, he has helped many patients overcome their bite problems with Invisalign. If you think your smile might benefit from Invisalign, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Glynn by visiting his website or calling (614) 864-4618.