Understanding the Right Orthodontic Treatment
Do you know what the best type of treatment for correcting teeth misalignment is?
An orthodontic treatment.
This type of dental treatment can help you correct issues like:
Overbite and underbite
Crowded teeth
Crooked teeth
Crossbite
Teeth that are out of alignment
But if you don’t want to wear those bulky and metal braces, you may be wondering if Jacksonville Invisalign for underbite is right for you.
The answer is not that simple.
Depending on the severity of your misalignment, your orthodontist will recommend one treatment or the other—possibly clear aligners, traditional braces, or even jaw surgery.
Let’s find out more!
What Is an Underbite?
A correct alignment of the teeth would mean that your upper teeth slightly go over the lower teeth when closing the mouth.
An underbite means that the lower jaw and teeth extend forward, looking as if they’re pushing out from the mouth.
It usually results from a misaligned jaw and can range in severity. Mild cases may respond well to orthodontic care, but severe underbites may require surgical intervention.
Some cases are mild and can be treated with orthodontic treatment while others require surgery to correct them.
Why Do You Need to Correct an Underbite?
Underbites aren’t just a cosmetic issue. They can impact your oral hygiene, your ability to speak clearly, and how you bite and chew food.
Over time, they can cause uneven wear on teeth, increase the risk of jaw pain, and may even lead to cavities due to bite misalignment.
Many patients also feel a dip in self-confidence due to the noticeable effect an underbite has on their facial profile.
If you’re dealing with these issues, it might be time to consider underbite correction.
Can Invisalign Fix an Underbite?
So, can Invisalign fix underbite problems?
In many cases, yes. Invisalign aligners work well for underbites caused by misaligned teeth rather than bone structure. If the issue stems from the position of your teeth rather than the jaw itself, Invisalign may be able to help.
Invisalign for underbite uses a series of clear, removable trays to gently shift your teeth over time. These trays are virtually invisible, making them a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces.
However, if your underbite is due to a structural issue with your lower jaw or upper jaw, such as bone size discrepancies, jaw surgery may be recommended first. After surgery, Invisalign or traditional braces can help refine the bite alignment.
It’s important to note that severe underbites typically need a combination of treatments, which may include metal braces and surgical procedures.
What Makes Invisalign Different?
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign offers the convenience of removability, which can improve your oral hygiene routine. You can brush and floss normally, without maneuvering around wires and brackets.
Each set of Invisalign aligners is part of a customized treatment plan that moves your teeth step by step toward proper alignment.
Patients appreciate that these aligners are virtually invisible, allowing them to go through treatment without feeling self-conscious.
Final Thoughts
So, can Invisalign fix underbite alignment? The answer lies in the specifics of your case. If your underbite is mild to moderate and caused by tooth misalignment, Invisalign may be a viable solution. In more complex cases, such as those involving jaw discrepancies, jaw surgery or traditional braces might be required.
The best course of action is to consult a dental office that offers a personalized treatment plan. You deserve care tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Get Personalized Care with JAX Dental Studio
At JAX Dental Studio, we understand every smile is unique. That’s why we offer a customized treatment plan for every patient seeking underbite correction, whether through Invisalign for underbite, traditional braces, or a combination of approaches. Dr. Poblenz and our caring team focus on precision, comfort, and long-lasting results.
If you’re tired of dealing with an underbite or unsure which treatment is right for you, we’re here to help. With our advanced technology, including iTero 5D scanning and soft tissue lasers, you’ll receive accurate diagnostics and gentle care every step of the way. Call us today at (904) 396-4091 or request your appointment through our contact form.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Invisalign treatment help with correcting underbites?
Invisalign treatment may help correct underbites when the issue is caused by misaligned teeth rather than skeletal structure. Invisalign clear aligners gradually shift the lower and upper teeth into a better position, reducing the appearance and discomfort of an underbite. For patients whose underbites stem from bone structure, surgery might be necessary first. Afterward, Invisalign can fine-tune tooth alignment as part of a complete treatment plan tailored to your oral health needs.
Can clear aligners be used if I have missing teeth?
Yes, clear aligners may still be a treatment option even if you have missing teeth, depending on your unique case. Invisalign treatment can help close small gaps or maintain spacing in preparation for implants or other dental restorations. Your dentist will evaluate whether aligners alone can address the issue or if you’ll require alternative treatments to ensure proper alignment, bite function, and overall oral health before or after replacing the missing teeth.
Will my childhood habits impact my Invisalign treatment?
Yes, childhood habits like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting can influence how your teeth develop and align, which may affect how well you respond to Invisalign treatment. If those habits created bite issues like pushing the upper teeth forward or contributed to underbite development, your dentist might need to modify your treatment plan. It’s important to discuss any past habits so your provider can ensure the clear aligners are effective and support your long-term oral health goals.
How long does Invisalign treatment take for underbites?
The treatment duration for correcting underbites with Invisalign varies based on the severity of the misalignment and patient compliance. On average, mild to moderate underbites may be improved in 12 to 18 months with consistent use of clear aligners. More complex cases, especially those needing surgery or additional orthodontic steps, can take longer. Your dentist will determine the expected timeline once they assess your bite, teeth positioning, and how well you’ll likely respond to undergoing treatment.
Are clear aligners effective for adults with underbites?
Yes, Invisalign clear aligners can be a practical treatment option for adults with underbites, especially when the underbite is caused by tooth position rather than jaw structure. Many adults prefer clear aligners for their comfort and appearance. However, if your underbite is more severe or your jawbone has fully developed in a way that misaligns your bite, you may require alternative treatments like surgery. A dental evaluation will confirm the best course of action for your oral health.
