7 January 2026 | Dr. Frédéric Lavoie
An overbite occurs when the upper teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth. This common dental issue can affect your smile’s appearance and cause functional problems. It can also lead to jaw pain or daily discomfort.
Fortunately, Invisalign® clear aligners often offer a discreet and effective way to correct many types of malocclusion. But which types of overbite can be treated, and how does Invisalign® work to fix them? In this article, we’ll explore the key factors to consider for achieving effective results with clear aligner treatment.
What Types of Overbites Can Be Treated?
Invisalign® can effectively correct various types of overbite, depending on the severity and complexity of each case.
Mild to Moderate Overbite
Overbite correction with Invisalign® is highly effective for treating mild to moderate cases, where the upper teeth slightly overlap the lower teeth. The aligners gradually move teeth into better positions, improving vertical alignment and reducing excessive overlap.
Severe Overbite
For severe overbite, an orthodontist may suggest combining Invisalign® with other treatments, like metal braces, to achieve optimal results. If the overbite is skeletal, it indicates that the upper or lower jaw does not align properly. In this case, orthognathic surgery may be needed. Understanding the severity and underlying cause of your overbite is key to choosing the most effective treatment plan.
In many cases, Invisalign® can effectively treat overbite, but the results depend on the severity and root cause of the condition. Whether you have a mild, moderate, or severe overbite, an orthodontist can design a treatment plan that is perfectly suited to your dental needs.
How Does the Treatment Work?
Invisalign® treatment is designed to address all factors required for achieving the best results. To ensure a smooth and effective experience, the process involves several key steps. Each stage is carefully tailored to meet the patient’s unique needs and goals.
Evaluation
Starting Invisalign® treatment begins with a consultation with an orthodontist. During this evaluation, the specialist carefully examines your mouth, teeth, jaw and oral health to assess your specific condition and treatment needs.
A 3D scan, photos, and X-rays are used to measure the teeth overlap. This step helps determine whether the overbite is dental (tooth positioning) or skeletal (jaw issue). This evaluation allows the orthodontist to confirm whether Invisalign® is a suitable treatment for your type of malocclusion.
Patients must continue to brush and floss regularly throughout treatment. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign® aligners are removable, making it easier to maintain proper oral hygiene.
Treatment Plan
After the evaluation, your orthodontist develops a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs. This plan details the series of Invisalign® aligners that will progressively shift your teeth into the ideal position. Each set of aligners is worn for a specific period and replaced according to the schedule provided by your orthodontist.
Targeted Tooth Movements
Correcting an overbite with Invisalign® requires precise planning of specific tooth movements:
- Intrusion of the upper teeth : The upper front teeth are gently pushed upward to reduce excessive overlap.
- Extrusion of the lower teeth : The lower teeth are gradually pulled downward to improve overall bite alignment.
- Inclination of the upper incisors : The positioning of both upper and lower teeth is carefully adjusted to enhance vertical alignment.
Thanks to the orthodontist’s careful planning, these movements help your teeth move smoothly into their new, straight positions.
Attachments and Orthodontic Elastics
In some cases, Invisalign® treatment may include attachments, also known as orthodontic bumpers, which apply targeted forces to help guide specific tooth movements. Orthodontic elastics can also be added to correct the bite and improve the alignment between the upper and lower jaws. These tools allow your orthodontist to personalize your treatment, ensuring that every adjustment is tailored to your unique dental needs for the best possible results.
An overbite can affect both the look and function of your smile, but effective solutions exist. Invisalign® clear aligners can correct various forms of excessive dental overlap, from mild and moderate overbite to more complex cases. In situations requiring orthodontic attachments or combined treatments, your orthodontist can design a customized plan to restore proper alignment and achieve a beautiful, functional smile.
At Dr. Frédéric Lavoie – Orthodontist, we provide expert guidance and personalized follow-up throughout your Invisalign® treatment. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve optimal results while enhancing the aesthetics of your smile. Contact us today to learn which treatment approach is best for your overbite.