Is Jaw Surgery My Only Option for Overbite?

I have an overbite that makes my profile look bad. My teeth are healthy, but the upper teeth look like they are leaning back. I am self-conscious about it, but I am a happy person, so it will not keep me from smiling. Other than jaw surgery, what are my options? Will Invisalign work? I don’t want to go to a dentist and ask for Invisalign if it won’t work for my overbite. – Thank you. Flores from Shaker Heights, OH

Flores,

Thank you for your question. Dr. Sirin would need to examine your teeth and take a 3-D scan to determine which options would work for your overbite.

What Is Your Bite?

In dental terminology, your bite is how your upper and lower teeth meet when you close your mouth, speak, or eat. According to the American Association of Orthodontics, an ideal bite occurs when your opposing (upper and lower) teeth meet for proper function.

What Is Overbite?

Overbite, also called a deep bite or a closed bite, is when your back teeth meet, but your upper front teeth overlap the bottom front teeth excessively. What causes overbite?

• A short lower jaw
• Crowding of lower front teeth as they develop
• Missing lower teeth
• Strong biting muscles

Will Invisalign Correct Overbite?

Invisalign can correct an overbite. Your dentist or orthodontist may use one or both methods to open your bite:

• Move upper and lower front teeth into the supporting bone
• Lengthen the side and back teeth

But sometimes, orthodontic treatment cannot correct jaw problems that cause overbite.

When Do You Need Jaw Surgery for Overbite?

Orthodontics corrects tooth misalignment, but jaw surgery corrects misaligned jaws. Corrective surgery can reposition part or all your lower or upper jaw or chin. Your dentist, orthodontist, and an oral surgeon may consult and recommend jaw (orthognathic) surgery when Invisalign or other braces will not resolve severe overbite.

Conclusion

Invisalign can correct an overbite. But you need an exam and a 3-D scan of your teeth and bone to determine the results you can expect.

Schedule an Invisalign consultation with Dr. Steven Sirin if you live near Elgin, Illinois.