One of the most common orthodontic issues is overbites, also known as buck teeth. If left untreated, this issue can lead to potentially serious oral health conditions. Our Langley orthodontists discuss the occurrence of overbites and answer the common question, 'Can Invisalign fix buck teeth?'.
What are buck teeth?
Many individuals refer to it as an overbite, but the term 'buck teeth' describes a common dental condition where the upper front teeth extend over or cover the lower front teeth. Highly protrusive front teeth can pose challenges for chewing and speaking, making an individual more vulnerable to pain and injury.
How do buck teeth affect the appearance and functionality of teeth?
While some overbites are considered normal and don't need treatment, severe cases can significantly impact your health and overall quality of life. Beyond affecting your appearance, buck teeth increase the risk of dental injuries. They may also lead to harm to your teeth and gums, along with discomfort while eating. Additionally, buck teeth can result in speech difficulties.
Maintaining oral hygiene may become more complicated with buck teeth. When your teeth misalign, bacteria can hide more easily, and it's challenging to brush all surfaces effectively. Over time, this misalignment can result in cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease.
It’s crucial to regularly visit your primary care dentist if you have buck teeth. Your dentist can keep track of your dental health and inform you if any issues worsen or impact the health and function of your teeth.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses clear aligner trays that are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth, applying pressure to help guide your teeth into their new positions. These aligners are designed using a 3D scanner to create digital impressions, which are then used to make clear plastic trays. You need to wear these for 20 to 22 hours a day and switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks.
How does Invisalign work to fix buck teeth?
Invisalign treatment gradually aligns your teeth over time, like braces, but without the metal brackets and wires. Instead, you'll wear a series of clear, removable plastic aligners that guide your teeth into the proper alignment.
When should Invisalign be used?
Invisalign tends to be effective in cases where the teeth are protruding due to their angle in the gum. Sometimes, the cause of protruding teeth is skeletal (often in more severe overbites), and Invisalign might have to be used in conjunction with surgery or another orthodontic treatment.
Factors That Influence the Outcome of Invisalign Treatment
The length of orthodontic treatment can differ based on individual circumstances. Several factors can impact the duration of your treatment, including:
- The complexity of the orthodontic issues that you are experiencing.
- Your age.
- How often you wear your clear aligners.
- How well you follow your Invisalign treatment plan.
- Frequency of aligner changes
- Whether you attend all follow-up appointments as scheduled.
- Any additional treatments that you may need,
- How thorough and consistent you are with oral hygiene.
Invisalign Treatment at Langley Orthodontics
To see if Invisalign is right for you, start by visiting our orthodontist office in Langley. If you're eligible for Invisalign, treatment can begin. Your orthodontist will provide the treatment plan, which Invisalign will convert using advanced computer technology into a series of clear aligners, ranging from as few as 12 to as many as 48.
You will wear each aligner for approximately two weeks, taking it out only for eating, brushing, and flossing. As you switch to each subsequent aligner, your teeth will steadily shift until your final alignment is achieved.