Can Invisalign Fix an Underbite?

Invisalign was developed to fix mild to moderate orthodontic conditions. Teens and adults with moderate malocclusions such as overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite may be excellent candidates for Invisalign. However, no two people are the same, so the best way to learn if Invisalign can correct misalignments or bite problems is to schedule a consultation with a highly experienced, certified Invisalign provider. 

Invisalign and Underbite

An underbite is a type of malocclusion wherein the lower teeth are in front of the upper teeth when the jaw is closed. There are two types of underbites–dental and skeletal. If you have a dental underbite due to a misalignment (positioning) of the teeth, Invisalign may be an appropriate treatment option. If the cause of the underbite is skeletal resulting in malformation in the jaw, surgery may be necessary, followed by Invisalign or other orthodontic treatment. 

Invisalign Works Differently Than Braces

Invisalign offers an alternative to traditional bracket and wire braces, not only in appearance but in the way it aligns the teeth and jaws. Wire and bracket braces use a wire threaded through brackets to pull the teeth into alignment. Invisalign works differently. Each set of alignment trays is slightly more aligned than your teeth and jaw.  When the trays are placed in the mouth, the teeth adapt to fit the trays, gradually moving into position.

Both traditional braces and Invisalign may require the use of small rubber bands called elastics to pull the upper jaw forward to correct an underbite.

What to Expect at Your Invisalign Evaluation

Whether you want to fix crooked teeth, crowded teeth, gapped teeth, overbite, or underbite, your initial Invisalign evaluation will include the following.

• Oral Health Examination 

Your dentist will need to confirm that you are free of active gum disease, infection, or other underlying conditions such as cavities that need immediate treatment. You must also have all of your permanent teeth.

• Digital Imaging

Once your oral health has been confirmed, your dentist will need to see beneath the surface. Digital imaging is fast and painless, using digital X-rays and the iTero digital scanning device.

• Image Evaluation

Your dentist will then review all of your imaging results. Barring any underlying problems that would disqualify you (tumor, jaw joint malformation, etc.), your dentist will inform you that you are a candidate for Invisalign.

• Preview of Your New Smile

Using advanced Invisalign software, your dentist will produce a rendering of what your new smile will look like after you complete Invisalign treatment.  

If you decide to proceed with Invisalign, your dentist will custom design a treatment plan for aligning your teeth and correcting your underbite. The plan, along with all of your imagining results, will be sent to the lab for the creation of your alignment trays. You’ll be able to begin treatment as soon as the alignment trays arrive from the lab. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Invisalign hurt?

Invisalign is made from smooth, BPA-free plastic making it gentle on the soft tissues of the mouth, such as the inside of your cheek and lips. Most patients do not find that Invisalign hurts, but you should expect some pressure as your teeth shift into proper alignment.

Is Invisalign covered by insurance? 

Like health insurance policies, all dental insurance policies are a bit different. In most cases, if your dental insurance provides some orthodontic coverage, it will apply to either traditional braces or Invisalign. Be sure to check with your carrier.  If your Invisalign treatment is not covered, you may pay with a credit card, or use CareCredit, a third-party financing company to pay for your treatment over time.   

Book an Invisalign Consultation in Bronxville, NY

Bronxville Family Dental is a Diamond tier provider placing our dental practice in the top 1% of Invisalign providers. To schedule an Invisalign consultation call 914-337-8430 or message us.