Can Invisalign Fix An Underbite?

As your children’s teeth develop, it is extremely likely that at some point in the growth cycle, your child will suffer from tooth or jaw misalignment. In fact, the Boston Children’s Hospital estimates that this will happen to 90% of children, though in many cases misalignment issues will go away on their own. But what if your child suffers from an underbite, overbite, or some other misalignment issue that needs correction?

There are several different ways to treat mouth misalignment, but one of the best is Invisalign® invisible braces. Just like traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners will straighten out teeth and jaw issues, but also offer a number of other great advantages over classic braces. 

Learn more about how Invisalign clear braces can fix underbite issues from the dental experts here at Dr. Park Family Dentistry!

How do Invisalign aligners fix underbite issues?

Invisalign aligners are very similar to traditional metal braces when it comes to dental treatment. After an oral examination, a clear aligner tray is made that, when worn according to your orthodontist’s instructions, will slowly and gently push the patient’s teeth and jaw into their proper position. This allows for corrective treatment without the need for surgery in the vast majority of cases.

Invisalign aligners have the same effectiveness as traditional metal braces, but with a few added benefits. Aligners are fully removable, so you can take them out to eat or play sports with ease. Furthermore, Invisalign invisible braces are called invisible because they’re translucent. Other people will hardly notice that you’re wearing them throughout the day!

How long does it take for Invisalign aligners to fix an underbite?

For the fastest and most effective treatment, it is highly recommended that patients wear Invisalign aligners for at least 20 hours a day or more if possible. In young patients, Invisalign aligners work in tandem with their naturally developing mouth. By following orthodontist instructions, most patients treat their underbite and other alignment issues in 12 to 18 months. 

Adult patients can also correct underbite and mouth misalignment issues with Invisalign aligners, but treatment typically takes longer because their mouths are already settled. Older patients who seek Invisalign aligner treatment should anticipate 24 to 36 months to complete treatment.

When should I consider Invisalign aligners to fix my underbite?

All patients have different oral needs, so it is highly recommended you consult a dental expert or orthodontist in order to consider the best treatment for you. In extreme cases, preparatory surgery combined with Invisalign clear braces might be the best recommended treatment. In others, your dentist may anticipate underbite issues going away on their own.

Whatever treatment your dentist recommends, remember to follow all of their instructions and to maintain good oral hygiene. Visiting a dentist can help you correct oral issues, but prevention is always better than treatment. A few recommended dental tips to maintain the effectiveness of underbite treatment and prevent issues from occurring in the future include:

• Brushing your teeth at least twice daily
• Using mouthwash and flossing at least once daily
• Wearing your aligner as much as possible, ideally 20+ hours a day
• Taking your aligner out for sports, eating, and other mouth intensive activities
• Wearing a retainer if recommended after Invisalign aligner treatment
• Showing up for scheduled aligner and retainer adjustment appointments
• Visiting your dentist semi-annually for cleanings and oral check ups

Get Invisalign clear aligner treatment from Dr. Park Family Dentistry

Are you a resident or live near Kingston, Ontario and are looking for a family dental office? Whether you need treatment for yourself or your children, pay us a visit at Dr. Park Family Dentistry! Along with Invisalign clear braces treatment, we also provide other vital cosmetic, restorative, and general dental care to help our patients have brighter, straighter smiles.

Contact us today if you have any questions, and we look forward to helping you correct your underbite and other dental issues here at Dr. Robin S. Park Family Dentistry!