Research suggests that malocclusions negatively affect the quality of life in many ways, including emotional and social well-being. Underbites affect only 5-10% of the population. However, they can cause several oral health issues, from aesthetics to chewing problems. Invisalign has revolutionised orthodontics. Whether as an adult or an adolescent, it has made undergoing orthodontic treatment simpler and covert. And as effective as braces, they can correct underbites without the metal mouth effect. Today, we discuss how Invisalign can transform your smile with the best-in-class clear aligner technology.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment system that offers an alternative to traditional braces for straightening and aligning teeth. The clear, custom-made aligners move your teeth comfortably and gradually into their desired positions. Invisalign is known for its virtually invisible appearance and the convenience of removability. It can straighten minor to complex teeth misalignments.
The aligners are made with flexible SmartTrack™ material, laser-trimmed to the gum line. Your Invisalign-trained dentist will take precise 3D digital scans of your teeth using the iTero™ element scanner and work with you to map out a custom treatment plan. Invisalign aligners are easy to take out when eating and brushing your teeth. You must wear the aligners for 22 hours a day for best results. Invisalign is suitable both teens and adults.
What is an underbite?
An underbite, also called prognathism, is a dental or orthodontic condition characterised by the lower jaw protruding beyond the upper jaw when the mouth is closed. In other words, in an individual with an underbite, the lower front teeth are positioned in front of the upper teeth when the jaws are closed, causing an imbalance in the bite. This condition can range from mild to severe, and it can have both aesthetic and functional implications.
Underbites form due to various factors, including genetics, skeletal abnormalities, and dental development. In most instances, this is due to the lower jaw being too far forward. Some common causes and contributing factors include:
Genetics – underbites can run in families, and you may inherit a genetic predisposition to this condition from your parents or grandparents.
Skeletal Imbalance – the relationship between the upper and lower jaws can lead to an underbite. Skeletal abnormalities may result from issues with the growth and development of the jaws.
Abnormal Tooth Positioning – in some cases, the misalignment is due to how teeth have erupted or grown rather than a skeletal issue.
Habits – prolonged use of pacifiers or thumb-sucking in early childhood can affect the positioning of the teeth and jaw, potentially contributing to an underbite.
Consequences of untreated underbites
The severity of an underbite can vary, and it may present different symptoms and challenges for each individual. Some common issues associated with underbites include:
Aesthetics – underbites can cause facial asymmetry and affect your smile. Many people with underbites feel self-conscious about how their teeth and jawline look.
Speech Problems – pronunciation and speech difficulties can arise due to the misalignment of the teeth and jaws.
Chewing and Digestive Problems – underbites can make it more challenging to chew food properly, leading to digestive issues. Certain foods may become more difficult to consume.
Oral Health Complications – misaligned teeth are more difficult to brush and floss properly, which increases the risk of dental problems, such as cavities and gum disease.
Jaw Pain and Discomfort – the strain placed on the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint or TMJ) by an underbite can lead to jaw pain, headaches, and even TMJ disorders.
How Invisalign transforms Underbites
Invisalign clear aligners can fix an underbite. Compared to traditional metal braces, they offer numerous benefits. Let us take you through the Invisalign process step by step.
The Invisalign treatment process
The first step is to consult a dentist with Invisalign training. You must choose a clinic with the latest Invisalign technology, such as iTero Element® scanning. It will take precision impressions of your teeth to custom-make the aligner trays. Your dentist will map out a personalised treatment plan. The 3D simulation will give you a better idea of how Invisalign move your teeth.
Custom clear aligners
Invisalign clear aligners made from SmartTrack material are more comfortable and easier to put on and remove. They apply gentle, constant force and improve control of tooth movements. Invisalign can straighten teeth more predictably.
Depending on individual cases, SmartForce attachments get fixed to your teeth before or after the Invisalign treatment. They are small tooth-coloured shapes like handles, giving aligners something to push on. Barely noticeable, Invisalign clear aligners fit smoothly and tightly around them. Not everyone who uses Invisalign will need them. Mandibular advancements improve the bite and appearance of the chin.
Regular check-ups and adjustments
You will have check-ups with your dentist every 6-8 weeks to ensure progress is as expected. During these appointments, you will get your next set of aligners. The My Invisalign™ app features the Invisalign Virtual Care tool, allowing your doctor to monitor your progress remotely and provide feedback between in-person appointments.
Wearing and taking care of Invisalign aligners
Wear your aligners according to your treatment plan. Set reminders for wearing and changing your aligners on the My Invisalign App. Rinse your aligners every night and brush them gently with your toothbrush to keep them fresh and clean. Use the Invisalign cleaning system to keep your aligners clear. Clean your teeth and rinse the trays each time you put them on. For the best results, you must wear your aligners for 20-22 hours a day.
Treatment duration
Treatment time depends on the individual case and its complexity. Invisalign clear aligners can help straighten minor to complex teeth misalignment. The duration of treatment usually lasts around 6 months, but it’s entirely dependent on the complexity of your case, as determined by your dentist. Typically, patients start to feel a noticeable difference after 3 months of wearing Invisalign, and significant results become apparent after 6 months.
Transforming your smile at Mouth
Mouth clinics offer Invisalign in fully equipped, state-of-the-art environments. Our dentists and orthodontists are Invisalign trained. With resident specialists in orthodontics, you can experience a complete smile transformation journey under one roof. Mouth South Quay is a leading referral centre with more than 50 local clinics referring patients to us for complex cases. Mouth Nine Elms has the only Teaching suite attached to surgery in the area geared towards skill and knowledge development among peers. It is also the only dental practice in Nine Elms with a resident oral surgeon and pediatrician. Are you ready to book your appointment today that can change your life?
