If your lower teeth sit in front of your upper teeth when you bite down, you may have an underbite. While some people have an underbite from childhood, others notice changes in their bite over time.
An underbite can affect more than the appearance of your smile. It can sometimes make chewing less comfortable, affect the way your teeth meet and leave you feeling more aware of your teeth.
The good news? Invisalign may be able to help.
At Tooth Club, we use advanced digital planning to understand how your teeth fit together and decide whether Invisalign could help create a healthier, more balanced smile.
What is an underbite?
An underbite happens when your lower teeth sit in front of your upper teeth when your mouth is closed.
With a typical bite, your upper teeth sit slightly in front of your lower teeth. An underbite reverses this position, which can affect the way your teeth come together.
Underbites can range from mild to more noticeable. For some people, it’s mainly a cosmetic concern. For others, it can affect how their teeth function day to day.
Can Invisalign fix an underbite?
In some cases, yes. Invisalign can help improve certain types of underbite by gradually moving your teeth into a healthier position.
Clear aligners use a series of custom-made trays that apply gentle pressure to your teeth, guiding them towards their planned position over time.
However, Invisalign isn’t suitable for every type of underbite. If your underbite is caused by the position of your jaw rather than the position of your teeth, a different treatment approach may be needed.
The best way to understand what’s possible is with a consultation. Your dentist will assess your teeth, your bite and your smile goals before recommending the right option for you.
How does Invisalign treat an underbite?
Every Invisalign treatment starts with understanding your smile and what you’d like to change.
During your consultation, your dentist will:
- Assess your teeth and bite
- Take digital scans of your smile
- Discuss the results you’d like to achieve
- Create a personalised treatment plan
If Invisalign is suitable, your clear aligners will be designed specifically for your teeth. Each set will gradually move your teeth closer to their new position, helping improve the way they look and function.
Using digital smile planning technology, you’ll also be able to see how your smile could change throughout your treatment.
How long does Invisalign take to fix an underbite?
The length of Invisalign treatment depends on how complex your underbite is and how much movement your teeth need.
Some mild cases can be treated in a matter of months, while more complex cases may take longer. Your dentist will explain your expected treatment timeline during your consultation.
Wearing your aligners as recommended will also help keep your treatment on track and achieve the best possible results.
Is Invisalign better than braces for an underbite?
Both Invisalign and traditional braces can help improve bite concerns. The right choice depends on your teeth, your treatment goals and the type of movement required.
Many people choose Invisalign because it offers:
A discreet way to straighten your teeth
Made from clear material, Invisalign aligners are designed to be subtle, so they fit naturally into your everyday life.
Flexibility around your routine
The aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing and flossing, making it easier to maintain your normal habits throughout treatment.
A comfortable treatment experience
Each aligner is custom-made for your teeth and gently guides them into position over time.
What happens if an underbite is left untreated?
Not every underbite needs treatment, but in some cases, it can contribute to:
- Uneven wear on your teeth
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Jaw discomfort
- Increased awareness of your smile
If you’re unsure whether your underbite needs correcting, a consultation can help you understand your options.
Can Invisalign fix an underbite without surgery?
For some patients, yes.
If your underbite is mainly caused by the position of your teeth, Invisalign may be able to improve your bite without surgery.
However, if the position of your jaw is contributing to your underbite, Invisalign alone may not be enough. Your dentist will explain what treatment options are available based on your individual smile.
Your next step
Thinking about fixing your underbite? The first step is understanding what’s possible for your smile.
At Tooth Club, we’ll assess your bite, talk through your goals and explain whether Invisalign could help you achieve a straighter, more balanced smile.
Find your nearest practice and book your Invisalign consultation at Tooth Club today.