Can Invisalign Fix an Underbite?

How your teeth overlap when your mouth is shut can have a significant impact on your oral health. Ideally, your upper teeth should go just a little bit over your lower teeth and your molars should fit into each other. But, if you have an underbite, then your lower teeth stick out in front of the upper ones, causing not only an odd appearance but also various oral health problems.

If you are looking for orthodontic treatment to fix your underbite, you may be wondering if Invisalign is a viable option.

Here's what you need to know.

First Thing First: Why You Need to Treat an Underbite

Teeth alignment problems vary in complexity and you don't always need to fix a slightly poor bite. But, if your underbite is severe, then it may affect your ability to speak clearly or to bite and chew food properly. Also, because of the teeth's position, you may feel more strain and pressure on your jaw, which can lead to pain and discomfort over time. Your teeth may also wear down faster because they are not properly aligned in your mouth.

Can I Use Invisalign to Fix My Underbite?

Not too long ago, braces and/or surgery were the only treatment options for treating an underbite. Fortunately, dentistry has come a long way since then and patients now have access to more subtle orthodontic treatments, such as Invisalign.

In most cases, Invisalign is effective enough to treat an underbite, especially if the cause is irregular teeth position or teeth crowding. The clear aligners can push the lower teeth so that they sit in the back of your upper teeth.

But, if the underbite is caused by your jaw's position, then Invisalign alone may not be enough to correct it. Your dentist may recommend a combination of surgery and braces or clear aligners to correct the underbite. Depending on the severity of your underbite, you may also need wires, screws, and plates to put and keep your jaw in the right position.

How to Make Sure Your Invisalign Treatment Is Effective

One of the most appealing things about Invisalign is that the aligners are transparent and provide a more subtle orthodontic treatment. They can also be taken off every day, unlike regular braces. But, precisely because the treatment is more relaxed, you need to be very careful and follow your dentist's instructions to get the desired results:

• Keep the aligners on for 22 hours every day.
• Take them off when drinking staining liquids, such as coffee or tea.
• Take them off when you are eating or brushing your teeth.
• Clean the aligners regularly to ensure no food debris or liquid gets stuck in them, causing them to turn yellow.

At Lakeview Modern Dentistry, We Can Fix Your Underbite

Are you looking for an amazing dentist in McFarland to help you fix your underbite? Are you curious if you are a great candidate for Invisalign?

Get in touch with the awesome team at Lakeview Modern Dentistry and let them transform your smile.

Contact us right now to book your appointment.