From Underbite to Perfect Bite With Invisalign
Do you experience difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking properly? You could have an underbite, a common condition that can negatively affect your smile and oral health. Fortunately, Invisalign is a modern, discreet, and effective orthodontic treatment that can correct underbites and provide a healthier and more attractive smile.
Dr. Aimee Kraft, a skilled and experienced dentist in Brooklyn, NY, can offer personalized treatment plans that cater to your unique dental needs and help you achieve the beautiful, confident smile you deserve. Call (718) 625-6629 to learn more.
What Is an Underbite?
An underbite, also known as prognathism, is a type of malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth. It’s characterized by the lower jaw (mandible) protruding or extending forward, causing the lower front teeth to overlap the upper front teeth when the mouth is closed.
This condition can lead to a range of problems if not treated, such as difficulties in speaking and eating, wear and tear on the teeth, and potential self-esteem issues due to facial appearance. Treatment options include orthodontics, jaw surgery, or a combination of both, depending on the severity of the underbite. It’s best to address this issue as early as possible, as treatment of severe underbite in children or teenagers can be easier due to their ongoing growth and development.
For some, an underbite can be treated with Invisalign. To learn more about Invisalign, contact our Brooklyn, NY dental office today to schedule your appointment.
What Causes an Underbite?
An underbite is primarily caused by an imbalance in the size or position of the upper jaw and lower jaw. The main factors that can contribute to an underbite include:
- Genetics: This is the most common cause of an underbite. If a person’s parents or close relatives have an underbite, it’s more likely that they will develop one too.
- Habits in early childhood: Certain habits in infancy or early childhood can also contribute to the development of an underbite. These include prolonged use of a pacifier or bottle, thumb-sucking, or excessive use of a sippy cup.
- Tumors or growths: Abnormal growths or tumors in the jaw can lead to an underbite.
- Cleft palate or lip: These conditions can alter the structure of the mouth and jaw, leading to an underbite.
- Injuries: Trauma to the face, especially at a young age, can affect the growth and development of the jaw, potentially leading to an underbite.
- Poor dental health: Missing or extra teeth, or other dental problems, can impact the alignment of the teeth and jaw.
Benefits of Correcting Underbites
When you fix an underbite, you experience several benefits, including:
- Improved facial appearance
- Improved speech
- Better oral function
- Reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease
- Prevention of future oral health problems
- Improved quality of life
- Reduced pain and discomfort
- Reduced risk of tooth extraction
How Does Invisalign Fix an Underbite?
Though severe underbites often necessitate jaw surgery due to the jawbone’s involvement, moderate and mild underbites can be effectively treated using Invisalign. The custom-made clear aligners gradually move the lower teeth back and the upper teeth forward to address the misalignment, aiming to align the upper and lower jaw over time.
The Invisalign process begins with a consultation with Dr. Aimee Kraft, who will evaluate your bite and create a custom treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. They’ll create your custom plan by taking a 3D digital scan of your mouth.
Once your treatment plan is in place, you’ll receive a series of clear aligners that you’ll wear for about two weeks each. Each set of aligners will gently shift your teeth into the desired position, and you’ll return to Dr. Aimee Kraft’s office every few weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned.
For an underbite, special devices known as “precision cuts” may be incorporated with the aligners. These tiny slits in the aligner can accommodate elastics that help exert the necessary pressure to correct the underbite, providing extra assistance in moving the lower jaw back and the upper jaw forward.
Invisalign vs. Traditional Braces for Underbite Correction
One of the main benefits of Invisalign over traditional braces for treating an underbite is that Invisalign clear aligners are removable, allowing for better oral hygiene maintenance. This feature also makes it more comfortable for the wearer, as they can eat and drink without the hardware in their mouth.
Another significant advantage is the aesthetic appeal. Invisalign’s clear aligners are almost invisible, making them an attractive option for teenagers and adults who are self-conscious about wearing traditional metal braces.
However, certain cases of underbites may require braces or even corrective jaw surgery. Your orthodontist will evaluate your condition and make the best treatment recommendation.
The Invisalign Process
The Invisalign process is a multi-step journey designed to encourage effective underbite correction and a healthier smile. Here’s an overview of what you can expect:
- Initial Consultation: Your first step is to schedule a consultation with an Invisalign-certified dentist or orthodontist. During this visit, they will assess your oral health, discuss your treatment options, and determine if Invisalign is the right choice for you.
- Digital Impressions: If you’re a good candidate for Invisalign, your dentist will take digital impressions of your teeth using a 3D scanner. These impressions are crucial for creating a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
- Treatment Plan: Your dentist will then craft a customized treatment plan that outlines the precise movements of your teeth and the number of aligners you’ll need. They’ll also discuss the estimated treatment time and cost, making sure you’re fully informed before starting your journey.
- Aligner Fabrication: Once your treatment plan is finalized, your custom-made Invisalign aligners will be ordered. These aligners are made from a clear, BPA-free plastic that’s comfortable to wear and virtually invisible.
- Aligner Wear: You’ll wear each set of aligners for 20-22 hours a day, removing them only to eat, drink, and clean your teeth. Every 1-2 weeks, you’ll switch to a new set of aligners, gradually moving your teeth into the desired position.
- Progress Monitoring: Regular check-ups with your dentist will be scheduled to monitor your progress, make any necessary adjustments, and provide new aligners. This keeps your treatment on track and addresses any issues promptly.
By following these steps, Invisalign aligners can effectively correct your underbite, improving your oral health and giving you a confident smile.
Maintaining Invisalign Aligners
To encourage the success of your Invisalign treatment, it’s essential to properly maintain your aligners. Here are some tips to help you keep them in top condition:
- Clean Your Aligners: Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water and mild soap daily. Avoid using hot water, abrasive materials, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the aligners.
- Store Your Aligners: When not wearing your aligners, store them in a protective case to prevent damage or loss. This simple step can save you from unnecessary delays in your treatment.
- Avoid Certain Foods: Refrain from consuming hard, sticky, or sugary foods that can damage your aligners or teeth. These types of foods can also increase the risk of tooth decay.
- Brush and Floss: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly. Clean teeth are essential for the effectiveness of your Invisalign treatment and oral health.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking can stain your aligners and teeth, so it’s best to avoid it during treatment. Keeping your aligners clear and your teeth white will help you achieve the best possible results.
By following these maintenance tips, you can help your Invisalign treatment progress smoothly and effectively.
Post-Treatment Care
After completing your Invisalign treatment, it’s essential to maintain your new smile with proper post-treatment care. Here are some tips to help you keep your teeth in their new, perfect alignment:
- Wear Your Retainer: Your dentist will provide a retainer to wear after treatment to maintain your new tooth alignment. Consistent use of your retainer is crucial to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
- Schedule Regular Check-Ups: Regular dental check-ups will help your teeth remain in their new position. These visits allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and address any potential issues early on.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Good oral hygiene is vital for maintaining the health and appearance of your new smile.
- Avoid Bad Habits: Avoid habits like nail biting, teeth grinding, or smoking, which can damage your teeth or aligners. Protecting your teeth from these harmful habits will help preserve your treatment results.
- Monitor Your Bite: If you notice any changes in your bite or tooth alignment, contact your dentist promptly. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
By following these post-treatment care tips, you can have a successful Invisalign treatment and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, an underbite can cause health problems such as difficulty chewing, biting, and speaking properly. It can also cause jaw pain and increase your risk of developing tooth decay, gum disease, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
Yes, an underbite can be hereditary. If one or both parents have an underbite, their child may be more likely to develop the condition.
Yes, an underbite can often be corrected without surgery through orthodontic treatments such as Invisalign or metal braces. However, in severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the misalignment of bottom teeth.
In some cases, an underbite may be hereditary and cannot be prevented. However, some habits can contribute to the development of an underbite, such as thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use in childhood. Discouraging these habits in children may help prevent underbite.