Does Invisalign Fix Underbite: A Comprehensive Guide

Invisalign has become a popular solution for fixing dental malocclusions and some skeletal malocclusions. Invisalign can fix underbite in several cases, depending on factors related to your oral health, genetics, severity of the underbite, etc. It is a far more elegant and convenient solution for dental realignment as compared to traditional metal braces. Invisalign treatment is also more aesthetically pleasing as compared to wire braces, is more convenient to use daily, and doesn’t cause painful sores and cuts like regular braces do. But before we dive deep into this subject, let’s first explore some basics.

What is an Underbite?

An underbite is a Class III Malocclusion, and in common terms, it is the term used to describe when the bottom teeth protrude out further than the front teeth and overlap with them. Underbites affect roughly 5-7% of the general population and give you the appearance of a protruding jaw. 

Apart from being a cause of low self-esteem, an underbite can cause several major dental issues if left untreated. Untreated underbites can cause mouth and jaw pain, difficulties in speaking and enunciation, wearing down of teeth enamel, halitosis, etc. To understand more about what is an underbite, you can check out our blog.

Can Invisalign Fix an Underbite?

Yes, it can! In certain cases, Invisalign for underbite proves to be the best solution! 

For mild to moderate dental realignment for underbites, along with some severe cases, Invisalign helps to give ideal results. It is only in severe to moderate cases of skeletal malocclusion that oral surgery or braces may be required instead of Invisalign. In the cases that are more extreme, your dentist can coordinate with an oral surgeon and partly treat your underbite with Invisalign, and the rest can be fixed with surgery.

What Causes an Underbite?

An underbite can be caused due to several factors, like genetics, bad childhood habits, injury or trauma, or in some rare instances, in the case of a mouth tumor.

• Genetics: Underbites are generally genetic and affect 5-7% of the population. If a family member suffers from underbite, you may likely inherit it, as the jaw, teeth, and bone formation is highly dependent on your genes. 

• Harmful Childhood Habits: If you used to use a pacifier beyond the age of three, suck your thumbs excessively, or used to thrust your tongue against the back of your teeth as a child, then it has an impact on your permanent dental development. Such unconscious childhood habits can lead to the development of malocclusions like underbite.

• Injury/Trauma: Underbites can also develop if you were in an accident where you injured or dislocated your jaw or broke your teeth and they have set improperly.

• Tumor: If you have a mouth or jaw tumor, it may also lead to misalignment of your teeth and cause dental issues like an underbite.

How Long Does it Take to Fix an Underbite with Invisalign?

Depending on the severity, Invisalign for underbite treatments is likely to go on for 12-18 months. The treatment process can extend for a longer time, like 2-3 years, if the underbite is severe. The clear Invisalign trays gradually realign your teeth by gently putting pressure on them, and need to be switched frequently every 1-2 weeks. The length of the treatment process solely depends on the severity of your malocclusion and the level of dedication and discipline you show. To get optimum results, you have to wear the aligner trays for at least 20-22 hours a day.

Cost of Invisalign Treatment for Underbites

Invisalign underbite treatments can cost anywhere between $3000-$8000. Depending on your geographical location, the severity of your dental malocclusion, your specific oral needs, and the amount of time your dentist puts into the process, the cost may vary within or beyond this price range. 

Pros and Cons of Invisalign for an Underbite

Using Invisalign for underbite has several benefits, but it also has some demerits as well. We have listed both the pros and cons so that you can make a more informed decision for your overall oral health.

Pros

• Invisalign is nearly invisible and not noticeable when smiling.
• It’s easy to remove when eating or cleaning teeth, and for special occasions, so you don’t have to alter your schedule or oral hygiene habits.
• Invisalign requires fewer visits to the dentist’s office as its 18-20 clear treatment trays have been custom-made for gradual progress.
• Furthermore, it moves teeth more gradually than conventional metal braces, which may lead to less discomfort caused by sores, bruises, and cuts.

Cons

• Invisalign can be more expensive than braces and isn’t always affordable for everyone.
• Invisalign trays can easily be lost or broken, resulting in more money and time spent on the treatment.
• Invisalign does not always achieve acceptable results as it is a very gradual process, and certain severe realignment problems can only be fixed by traditional braces or oral surgery.

So, does Invisalign fix underbite? In most cases, yes, it does! The above article has highlighted the pros and cons of utilizing Invisalign to fix an underbite, along with outlining the causes of underbites, the costs of the procedure, the duration, and many other important details. Underbites may be a source of low self-esteem for several individuals, but with the help of Invisalign, everyone can have a perfect, ideal bite and a smile they are proud to show off!

If you are dealing with an underbite, come visit our orthodontist at Brite and we will help you determine the best treatment course for you and help you find affordable solutions and tretment options.

Make an appoint today!