How Invisalign Fixes Bite Problems

Invisalign aligners are a popular alternative to traditional braces, but are they capable of fixing a misaligned bite? Bite problems such as crossbite, overbite, and underbite can lead to serious oral health issues like chipped or cracked teeth and TMJ disorder. Thankfully, your Houston dentist can realign your jaw and help you achieve a more comfortable bite using Invisalign clear aligners. Here are four common bite issues that can be fixed with Invisalign.

Crossbite

If some of a person’s bottom teeth are sitting in front of their top teeth, they have a crossbite. Invisalign can address slight cases of crossbites, such as those involving only one or two bottom teeth, but severe bite problems may be better treated with traditional braces. The two main types of crossbites are:

• Posterior – This crossbite occurs when the lower teeth toward the back of your mouth fit over the teeth in your top jaw.
• Anterior – This type of crossbite occurs when the teeth in the bottom front of your mouth fit over the teeth of your top jaw.

Underbite

When someone has an underbite, the bottom teeth sit in front of the upper ones when their mouth is closed. This usually happens because of the lower jaw growing faster than the upper one and can make it difficult to speak and eat. The teeth may also be subjected to extra wear and tear. Underbites are easier to treat in young patients whose jaws haven’t finished developing yet. When paired with elastics and other attachments, Invisalign can pull the lower jaw backwards so the bottom teeth fit behind the top ones. Severe underbites or those in older patients may require traditional orthodontics to be corrected.

Overbite

Overbites are a common bite problem in which the top teeth stick out too far. A small overbite is normal, but a large one can make the top teeth more susceptible to injury and wear. For patients 12 and under, Invisalign can be used in conjunction with a mandibular advancement appliance to guide the jaw into the correct place as it grows. For patients over 12, aligners can normally be used with elastics to steadily move the jaw into the right position.

Open Bite

An open bite is when the top and bottom teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed. This bite problem is uncommon and can be caused by childhood habits and irregular jawbone growth rates. Fortunately, Invisalign can move the necessary teeth to help them meet correctly.

If you have bite problems, visit your Houston dentist for assistance. They can determine if Invisalign is the best way to achieve the happy, healthy smile you deserve!

About the Practice

Dr. Mark Gray and his team treat Houston families with the high-quality, friendly, and compassionate dental care they need to achieve more beautiful teeth. If you’re looking for exceptional restorative, cosmetic, and preventive dentistry, you’ve come to the right place. They take pride in helping patients straighten their teeth and correct bite issues with Invisalign for better functioning smiles. Call (281) 493-9395 or visit their website to learn more about how Invisalign can help correct bite issues or to schedule an appointment.