Invisalign® is a convenient but powerful system for straightening teeth. It consists of a graduated series of clear plastic aligners that gently move teeth into their best positions.
Many patients know that Invisalign can correct crooked, crowded, and gapped teeth. Invisalign can also fix minor to moderate dental bite issues like overbite.
How Invisalign Fixes Overbites
To correct overbites, Invisalign uses a combination of clear plastic aligners and smooth "buttons" placed on the aligners. Strategically placed elastic bands help Invisalign adjust your bite with comfort and discretion.
The Invisalign Process
Consultation
When you express interest to your dentist, they will schedule a consultation with the orthodontist to show you how Invisalign can improve your smile. Your orthotontist will inform you whether they feel Invisalign would work well or whether you may need another type of orthodontic appliance to meet your needs.
Design
The dentist or orthodontist takes digital impressions using a handheld intraoral scanner. The scanner provides a comfortable, mess-free alternative to traditional impressions.
Your dentist or orthodontist inputs these detailed scans into the Invisalign software, which helps them design a complete aligner series. Your dentist can show you a digital rendering of your smile after treatment.
The Invisalign lab fabricates the trays from advanced medical-grade plastic.
Wearing Invisalign
Invisalign makes orthodontic treatment fast and convenient. You will wear each aligner for about one to two weeks, then switch to the next in the series.
As you progress through the series, the trays will gradually shift each tooth into an ideal position. You should visit your dentist every four to six weeks to evaluate your treatment and check for problems. Braces patients must visit the orthodontist more frequently.
Completing Treatment
Your teeth will reach their final positions after roughly 12 to 18 months. After treatment concludes, you must wear an orthodontic retainer to ensure your teeth remain in their new positions.
Benefits of Invisalign
Discreet
Adults and older teens may be wary of braces because they fear unwanted attention. Invisalign lets you keep your orthodontic treatment private.
Comfortable
The trays are made of smooth plastic with no irritating edges, unlike braces, which have metal brackets and wires. The buttons used to correct an overbite are also engineered for comfort.
Versatile
Invisalign can correct many orthodontic issues, including overbite. However, some problems need braces to be corrected. Your dentist will inform you whether your condition would respond to Invisalign.
Faster Than Braces
While Invisalign generally takes 12 to 18 months, braces can take up to three years. Invisalign may take under a year to treat a simple case of gapped or crooked teeth.
No Dietary Restrictions
Patients with braces must avoid certain foods, like candy, nuts, and corn on the cob. Since Invisalign must come out before eating, patients can have anything they like.
Improved Oral Health
Compared to braces, Invisalign fosters better oral health during treatment. Braces can trap food particles and plaque, leading to higher chances of gum disease and tooth decay. Straight teeth are also significantly more straightforward to keep clean, further boosting your oral health.
Who is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
Most patients can receive Invisalign. However, some orthodontic conditions, such as jaw malformation or severe overbite, may require treatment with braces.
Excellent candidates for Invisalign share these criteria:
- Adult or older teen with all permanent teeth fully erupted
- No missing teeth
- Excellent oral hygiene
- Willingness to wear the trays 20 to 22 hours daily, taking them out only to eat, drink, and keep them clean
- Minor to moderate orthodontic issues
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
How do Invisalign's buttons and elastics work to correct an overbite?
Elastics fit around smooth plastic buttons on the aligner. The elastics connect the upper and lower aligners and create constant gentle pressure that moves the bottom teeth forward and the top teeth back.
How do I clean my aligners?
The quickest and easiest way to clean your Invisalign trays is to use branded cleaning crystals. You can also use an extra-soft toothbrush and clear, unscented antibacterial soap. Avoid abrasive toothpaste and toothbrushes to prevent scratching your aligners. Do not rinse them under warm or hot water to prevent warping.
Call Wilson Park Dental
If you have an overbite and do not want braces, consider Invisalign, a more convenient and comfortable solution. Please call our Rapid City, SD, office at 605-343-9352 to schedule your consultation today.