They receive a lot of attention because they’re easily visible, but teeth aren’t the only part of your oral cavity that can be misaligned. If your jaw isn’t positioned right, then your pearly whites won’t line up correctly when your mouth is closed. In other words, you can develop bite issues, such as an overbite or an underbite.
Bite issues can be uncomfortable and cause all kinds of complications, but there’s good news: Invisalign clear aligners can help!
Types of “Bite Issues”
There are many different types of “bite issues,” and each is defined based on the jaw’s specific misalignment. For example:
- An overbite means your upper teeth are positioned too far over your lower teeth.
- Underbites are the opposite – your lower teeth extend past your upper teeth.
- If you have a crossbite, some of your bottom teeth are in front of some of your top teeth. Your jaw may rest too far to the left or too far to the right in order to compensate.
- Open bites, meanwhile, are when your top and bottom teeth don’t touch at all.
Similar to crooked teeth, a “crooked jaw” can be repositioned by applying strategic amounts of pressure – which is exactly what orthodontics are designed to do!
The Power of Invisalign (and Modern Advancements)
To be fair, Invisalign wasn’t always able to fix bite issues. The clear aligners started out as a cosmetic solution. However, in 2009, tooth-colored attachments and bite ramps were introduced as part of Invisalign’s new SmartForce features. By cementing these additions to the plastic trays, Invisalign providers could gently force the jawbone to move. Thanks to continuing advancements, Invisalign can now correct the vast majority of bite misalignments!
An Invisalign Treatment vs. Traditional Braces
If you’re interested in fixing an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite, it’s definitely worth considering an Invisalign treatment. While traditional braces can correct severe bite issues more effectively than Invisalign, these famous clear aligners are suitable for the vast majority of patients and are generally considered to be more comfortable, more convenient, and on average, faster. So ask your dentist if Invisalign is right for you – you could very well achieve your dream smile without metal brackets and wires!
About the Author
Dr. Travis Rottman has achieved Fellowship status in the Academy of General Dentistry – something that only 6% of dentists accomplish! This demonstrates how dedicated he is to making sure his patients receive quality dental (and orthodontic) care. If you’re bothered by an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite, Dr. Rottman will be happy to evaluate your misalignment and help you form an Invisalign treatment plan! To contact his office and schedule your consultation today, call 972-848-0073.