Overbite is a dental condition where the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth too far. It not only affects the aesthetic appearance of your smile but can also cause stress to the jaw and result in tooth damage or gum problems. While braces were, and still are, extensively used to correct overbite, orthodontic technology has advanced to include other options, such as Invisalign.
Invisalign can correct mild to moderate overbites. If you’re curious about Invisalign, your dentist can provide information and recommendations based on your unique circumstances.
What Is Invisalign?
Much like braces, Invisalign makes small adjustments over a long time to straighten teeth and correct misaligned bites. However, instead of brackets and wires, Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners custom-fitted for your teeth.
Invisalign uses 3D scanning technology to create a map of your teeth and custom aligners, which you’ll change every few weeks. Each new aligner places a slightly different pressure on your teeth to gradually move them into the desired position.
And, yes! Invisalign can correct mild to moderate overbites using precision wings that gradually move your lower jaw forward.
The Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign offers various benefits over braces, including:
- Natural appearance: Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, making them a more discrete choice for many.
- Easier to clean: Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign can be removed, making maintaining oral hygiene and cleaning your teeth easier.
- Fewer dental visits: Invisalign may require fewer orthodontist visits than traditional braces, which need to be tightened manually by a professional.
- Fewer food adjustments: You remove Invisalign before eating, so you may be able to still indulge in your favourite foods that you’d have to give up with braces.
How Long Do You Wear Invisalign?
Generally, Invisalign treatment can take anywhere from 6 to 24 months. You may only need to wear Invisalign for a few months if you have minor alignment issues. However, you may require a longer treatment if you have more complex issues, such as significant overcrowding or bite misalignment.
Most patients receive a new set of aligners every 2 weeks, and each aligner is typically worn for 20 to 22 hours per day, which leaves plenty of time to remove your aligners to eat or clean.
However, one of the key parts of a successful Invisalign treatment is wearing your aligners as much as possible. Failure to wear your aligners for the recommended time can prolong your treatment and potentially compromise your results.
Your orthodontist will monitor your progress periodically to help your treatment progress as planned. So, while you may need to see your dentist less often than with traditional braces, it’s still important to check in. These visits are usually every 6 to 8 weeks. If any adjustments need to be made to your plan, your orthodontist can make the necessary changes to get you back on track.
Proper Care & Cleaning
Invisalign requires regular cleaning and care to protect both the aligners and your oral health:
- Rinse your aligners every night with water.
- Brush your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Use gentle, clear liquid soap.
- Rinse your aligners thoroughly after brushing.
When you’re not wearing your Invisalign aligners, store them in their protective case to prevent them from getting lost or damaged. Avoid wrapping them in a napkin or tissue, as they can easily get thrown away or lost.
Invisalign also offers specialized cleaning systems. Steraligner uses a tray with isopropyl alcohol and sodium bicarbonate to help remove bacteria and prevent plaque buildup. Some people prefer “cleaning crystals,” which dissolve in warm water and clean your aligners as they soak for about 15 minutes.
Additionally, remember to:
- Take out your aligners while eating to help prevent food particles from building up in the aligners.
- Only drink water while your aligners are in, and avoid acidic or sugary drinks that can stain or cause damage.
- Only use warm water to clean. Hot water can damage your aligners.
- Store your aligners in an airtight container when you aren’t wearing them. Even if you only take them out to eat, this helps you avoid bacteria and always know where they are.
You may only wear each aligner for 2 weeks but take care of them, and they can take care of you.
A Personalized Approach to Oral Health
Invisalign’s virtually invisible aligners aren’t just about straightening your teeth—they’re about supporting your family’s oral health! Our team at Genesis Dental can help determine if Invisalign is the solution you’re looking for.We can’t wait to talk about your smile goals! Book your consultation today.
