Clear Aligners, removable dental appliances designed to straighten teeth discreetly and comfortably. They are particularly effective for treating malocclusions, where the upper and lower teeth don’t align properly.2,3
An overbite occurs when the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth, potentially causing jaw pain, tooth wear, and gum issues.4 An underbite happens when the lower front teeth extend past the upper front teeth, leading to chewing and speaking difficulties, and jaw discomfort.5
This blog will explore how aligners effectively correct overbites and underbites and review some of the top aligner options available in India.
Aligners for overbite correction
Overbites, where the upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth, are a common dental issue. Traditionally, overbites have been corrected using braces and rubber bands (intermaxillary elastics), but these methods can sometimes lead to unintended tooth movements.4,6
Clear aligners have become a popular choice for correcting overbites due to their effectiveness and subtle appearance. They are transparent, making them almost invisible compared to traditional braces, and are removable, which makes brushing and flossing easier allowing the maintenance of good oral hygiene. The technology behind clear aligners has advanced significantly, enabling them to correct complex dental issues like overbites.
Aligners can be precisely designed to gradually move teeth into the desired position. Aligners work by moving the upper front teeth backwards and creating proper spacing between the molar teeth to rectify overbite issues. They can help achieve improvements in the alignment of front teeth, lateral relationship of jaws and proper occlusion.6
Clear aligners, though newer than traditional methods, offer better control over tooth movements and are more comfortable for patients. They effectively correct mild to moderate overbites while also providing improved comfort, aesthetics, and oral health.1,6
Aligners for underbite correction
Treating an underbite, or Class III malocclusion, where the lower teeth extend too far forward compared to the upper teeth, with clear aligners can be effective but requires a specialized method. Unlike overbites, Class III cases frequently require a more tailored approach.5,7
If the underbite is just about the teeth and not the bone structure, clear aligners can be a suitable, non-invasive solution. They are comfortable and less noticeable than traditional braces. However, if the underbite involves the bone structure, clear aligners might need to be combined with other treatments, like surgery.7
For underbite correction, clear aligners help by slowly moving the teeth into better positions. However, for most of these cases, some special techniques may be needed to achieve the desired results along with aligners. These include small reductions to the teeth size or the use of special rubber bands that help move the teeth into the right place.
Overall, clear aligners are a good option for fixing mild underbites. They offer a comfortable and discreet way to correct bite issues, often showing great results with careful planning and patient involvement.
Top 5 Aligners to Consider in India
When choosing aligners for correcting overbites or underbites, here are some options available in India. The teeth aligners cost can range somewhere around ₹80,000 to ₹1,20,000, depending on the degree of alignment needed.
Toothsi aligners are a prominent choice, designed by over 100 orthodontists and dentists. They are US FDA 510(k) cleared and produced in India’s largest 3D printing facility. Offering both virtual and in-person monitoring, Toothsi is ISO 13485 certified and has corrected over 37,000 smiles. Pricing is comparable to traditional braces and varies based on case complexity.
Other options include Snazzy Clear Aligners, which offer an initial scan, a preview of results, home delivery, and ongoing monitoring; 3M Clear Aligners, which use clear, stain-resistant brackets and archwires; Rejove 32 Aligners, which provide custom aligners with progress tracking software; and Invisalign, a well-known brand offering comprehensive treatment options at a higher cost, ranging from ₹1.5 lakh to 4 lakhs.
Aligners are a modern solution for correcting overbites and underbites, offering a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces. The best aligner for you will depend on your dental needs and budget.
Conclusion
Aligners are an excellent choice for fixing overbites and underbites. They work by gradually moving your teeth into the right position. For overbites, aligners shift your teeth and adjust your bite for a better fit. For underbites, they help reposition your teeth to correct the alignment. They’re comfortable and nearly invisible, making them a popular alternative to traditional braces.
