Wondering if Invisalign can fix an underbite without metal braces? You’re not alone. Many adults and teens want a subtle way to improve their bite and smile.
In this guide, we’ll break down how Invisalign tackles underbites, when it works best, and what to expect from treatment so you can make a smart, confident decision.
Yes, Invisalign can fix an underbite! It uses a series of custom aligners to gradually shift your teeth into the correct position, offering a discreet and effective solution for underbite correction.
An underbite is a type of malocclusion, where the lower jaw extends outward more than the upper jaw.
This can cause the bottom teeth to overlap the upper teeth, which not only affects the appearance of the smile but can also lead to issues with biting, chewing, and speaking.
An underbite can range from mild to severe, and while some people may not experience significant problems, others may face functional issues such as difficulty chewing or jaw pain.
In such cases, seeking treatment can help improve both appearance and functionality.
Invisalign uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to gradually shift teeth into their correct positions.
The aligners are designed to fit snugly over your teeth and are typically worn for 20 to 22 hours a day, with periodic changes to new aligners as your teeth move.
The aligners are designed using advanced 3D imaging technology, which allows your orthodontist to create a detailed treatment plan.
For underbite cases, Invisalign aligners will be used to shift the lower teeth into alignment with the upper teeth, making gradual adjustments over time.
Invisalign can be an effective treatment for mild to moderate underbites, as it works by applying gentle pressure to the teeth to move them into better alignment.
The aligners are custom-designed to fit your teeth and apply targeted pressure to guide the teeth into the desired position.
In cases where the underbite is mild or moderate, Invisalign can gradually move the lower teeth backward and the upper teeth forward, creating a more aligned bite.
The aligners are particularly effective for people whose bite issues are related to teeth positioning rather than jaw structure.
In more severe cases of underbites, where the misalignment involves the jaw itself (not just the teeth), Invisalign alone might not be enough to achieve the desired results.
For severe underbites, traditional braces or surgical intervention may be required to correct the jaw’s positioning.
The length of time it takes for Invisalign to correct an underbite depends on the severity of the condition, the age of the patient, and the individual’s adherence to the treatment plan.
Typically, Invisalign treatment for an underbite can take anywhere from 12 months to 24 months, though it may be longer for more complex cases.
Treatment for mild underbites may take around 12 to 18 months, depending on the specific movement needed.
In more complex cases, treatment may take closer to 24 months or may require additional interventions such as attachments or other appliances.
The treatment time will also depend on how consistently the patient wears the aligners.
Missing hours can slow down the process, so it's important to wear the aligners for the prescribed 20 to 22 hours a day.
While Invisalign can be effective for treating mild to moderate underbites, traditional braces are often the more reliable solution for more severe cases. Let’s compare the two:
Pros: Discreet, removable, comfortable, and suitable for mild to moderate cases.
Cons: May not be effective for severe underbites or those involving the jaw structure. Requires patient compliance with wearing aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day.
Pros: Highly effective for severe underbites or those involving the jaw, with no need for patient compliance with removable aligners.
Cons: More noticeable, less comfortable, and may require more maintenance such as adjustments and wire tightening.
In cases where the underbite is primarily a result of teeth misalignment, Invisalign is an excellent option.
However, when the jaw itself is misaligned, braces or even surgical intervention may be necessary.
In severe cases of underbite, where the jaw is misaligned rather than just the teeth, surgery may be required.
This is typically done in combination with traditional braces or Invisalign. Surgical treatment might be needed if:
The misalignment is so severe that braces or Invisalign alone cannot correct the issue.
There are functional issues, such as difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing, that cannot be corrected through braces or aligners.
Surgical options may involve moving the jaw into a more correct position, after which orthodontic treatment is used to adjust the teeth.
This approach is usually reserved for patients with significant jaw discrepancies that affect their bite and overall functionality.
Invisalign works by gradually shifting the teeth into proper alignment. For an underbite, the aligners will apply pressure to move the lower teeth back and the upper teeth forward.
Invisalign is most effective for mild to moderate underbites. For severe underbites, traditional braces or surgical intervention may be required.
Invisalign treatment for an underbite typically takes 12 to 24 months, depending on the severity of the case and the patient’s adherence to the treatment plan.
Invisalign can be an effective treatment for many individuals with underbites, especially for those with mild to moderate cases.
It offers a discreet, comfortable, and flexible alternative to traditional braces.
However, for severe cases that involve jaw misalignment, other treatments such as braces or surgery may be necessary.
Regardless of your specific situation, consulting with an experienced orthodontist is the best way to determine the right treatment for your underbite and achieve the results you’re looking for.
Class One Orthodontics is where smiles are masterfully crafted. As Worcester and Newton's premier orthodontic experts, we pride ourselves on providing unparalleled care with a personal touch. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and a dedication to our community, we're not just creating beautiful smiles – we're shaping the future of oral health with a warmth and expertise that's unmatched.
