Bite issues can affect more than the appearance of your smile. In some cases, it can contribute to problems with chewing, tooth wear, jaw pain or other dental problems. So, can Invisalign fix overbites, underbites, or crossbites? In most cases, the answer is yes, as long as it is clear what your bite issue is being caused by. By finding the root cause of a problem, it is much easier to solve the issues that occur.
To book an appointment at New Ash Green Dental and Aesthetics, click here, call 01474 873 455 or email hello@newashgreendentalandaesthetics.com today and learn more about Invisalign, and why most people swear by the benefits of this modern orthodontic treatment.
Understanding Bite Issues: Overbites, Underbites, and Crossbites
A great place to start is by understanding the different bite issues that exist among orthodontics patients, and which one you may have. By doing this, it becomes easier to determine the correct dental path to take to tackle your bite misalignment.
- Overbites are when your upper teeth extend over your lower teeth.
- Underbites are the opposite, where the lower teeth extend beyond.
- Crossbites are a little more complicated because they refer to having some upper teeth sitting inside the lower teeth when biting down.
Whichever you have, the result is the same. Uneven wear on teeth, jaw discomfort, and difficulty chewing. This is why forward-thinking is vital when dealing with these conditions, and going through an effective treatment plan immediately to avoid it worsening.
Can Invisalign Fix Bite Issues?
Invisalign treatment can correct certain types of bite issues, usually medium to mild cases. For example, if you need to fix an overbite or underbite, then over time, Invisalign clear aligners could do the trick depending on how complex your case is.
The clear aligners can apply controlled pressure to the misaligned teeth, helping move the upper and lower teeth towards a healthier bite and more balanced position.
However, Invisalign cannot fix every type of severe underbite or overbite. Such cases involving the relationship between the upper and lower jaws may require other orthodontic treatment options.
What Causes These Bite Issues?
These common bite issues can occur due to some common genetic factors as well as childhood tendencies. In some cases, you can end up with more severe cases which impact both children and adults.
What Causes an Overbite?
- Tooth position
- Jaw development
- Childhood habits such as tongue thrusting can all play a role
What Causes Underbites?
- Natural growth and position of the upper and lower jaw
- Genetics
- Childhood habits
- Tooth position
- Differences in jaw development
More significant cases may involve the jaw itself rather than simply the position of the teeth, which can affect which orthodontic treatment is most appropriate.
What Causes Crossbites?
- Genetics can again be a factor
- Prolonged thumb sucking
- Certain tongue movements
Treating a crossbite can help improve the alignment of the teeth and bite, but the most suitable approach depends on the patient’s age, oral health and the underlying cause.
How Does Bite Correction Work?
The first step to take when dealing with an underbite or overbite correction is to book an appointment at a trusted dental clinic such as New Ash Green Dental and Aesthetics. During the appointment, your healthcare provider will examine your teeth, bite and jaw relationship.
Your dentist will consider the position of the:
- Upper incisors
- Lower incisors
- Bottom teeth
- Upper teeth
- Lower jaw
- Upper jaw
Once the assessments are completed, the dentist can determine if you have a severe overbite based on your upper front teeth, or lower front teeth for your underbite. This will help with your overall Invisalign treatment plan.
Invisalign aligners can then be used to make carefully planned movements over time. You will need to wear the aligners as instructed and attend appointments to monitor your progress.
Once treatment is complete, wearing a retainer helps maintain the corrected tooth position.
Does a Bite Issue Need Treatment?
In truth, not all bite issues need fixing; however, if not dealt with, it could lead to bigger issues later on. Also, by treating your bite issue earlier on, you can reduce the possibility of more severe dental problems, including excessive teeth wear, difficulty chewing, gum problems or jaw discomfort.
Invisalign or Traditional Braces?
It all comes down to a few factors that are for the dentist and patient to take into consideration during the initial consultation.
Arguably, traditional braces are more suited for complex cases. However, most patients still tend to prefer Invisalign clear aligners where possible because of the level of discretion that is associated with them.
Either way, before deciding the best treatment option, it is worth asking about the expected treatment time, available treatment plans and whether Invisalign can realistically fix your bite issue.
Why Choose New Ash Green Dental & Aesthetics?
Choose New Ash Green Dental & Aesthetics for your Invisalign treatment, knowing you will get the best advice and an experienced dental team.
Click here, call 01474 873 455 or email hello@newashgreendentalandaesthetics.com to book your appointment today, and let’s get your smile complete again!
