Can Invisalign Clear Up My Bite Problems?

Invisalign aligners have become an incredibly popular orthodontic treatment in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. The sleek, discreet aligners allow patients to get a straighter smile without any impact on their appearance in the meantime.

However, Invisalign is also a newer treatment than traditional braces, and is therefore a bit more limited in the conditions that it can treat. For example, you might wonder whether you could use clear aligners to deal with bite problems, like an overbite. The answer is complicated; here’s what you should know.

Can Invisalign Treat Bite Problems?

Over the past few years, Invisalign technology has advanced considerably. They’re capable of more than ever, and in many circumstances that includes bite adjustments. However, this is typically only the case if you’re dealing with a mild to moderate bite problems; more extreme issues will usually require traditional braces at the very least, or the use of more specialized oral appliances.

How Does Invisalign Deal With Bite Problems?

In the case of mild overbites or underbites, clear aligners may be able to move your teeth into a position that allows your upper and lower jaw to easily meet. This doesn’t actually require the movement of the jaw at all, and is therefore a small enough problem for Invisalign to handle without any modifications.

In more severe cases, however, you may need to make use of Invisalign attachments designed to address bite problems. These are small, tooth-colored hooks that are adhered directly to the top and bottom teeth. When these hooks are connected together with a rubber band they move the jaw into a more healthy position, and wearing it consistently can eventually treat underlying bite issues.

Whether these solutions will be enough for you depends on a wide variety of factors, and even if your bite misalignment could be solved with Invisalign aligners, there could be other reasons that they aren’t a good fit for you. Only a dentist with a complete understanding of your circumstances can tell you for sure whether you’re a good candidate for clear aligner treatment.

About the Author

Dr. David Rosenfeld has a deep passion for his field, and his practice is defined by his capacity to blend his cosmetic and restorative skills with compassion and dedication. This allows him to produce consistently excellent results for his patients. Dr. Rosenfeld received his degree from Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery. His commitment to continuing his education has earned him Fellowship in the International Congress of Oral Implantology, and is a member of The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, he can be reached at his website or by phone at (908) 668-7838.