For patients with an overbite, teeth on the upper jaw line overlap those on the lower jaw. Failure to seek corrective action for an overbite might leave you with decayed teeth, painful jaws and/or damaged gums among other dental health problems. In this regard, what would be the right treatment for an overbite? Answers to the three questions discussed below should provide a bit of insight.

What Treatment Options Are Available?

In order to correct an overbite, you would have to use orthodontic appliances that designed to for tooth re-alignment or re-positioning. Braces and invisalign retainers are two of the most common orthodontic appliances used to correct an overbite. Invisalign retainers are clear and detachable. They're made using a thermoplastic material. Ordinary braces are made from metal and are they're non-detachable. Braces are commonly referred to as 'railroad tracks' thanks to their metallic structure and physical appearance once they've been installed on teeth.

How Do The Two Options Compare?

Cost: Braces may have an advantage over invisalign retainers in this regard because they're often more affordable. However, cost shouldn't be the most significant factor to consider when choosing between orthodontic treatments alternatives.

Aesthetics: Metallic braces are often considered unsightly and they're often a source of ridicule for patients wearing them. Because they're clear, invisalign retainers will be less conspicuous once installed on your teeth. However, lingual metallic braces are installed behind teeth. This makes them less visible and as inconspicuous as invisalign retainers.  

Ease of use: Invisalign retainers beat metallic braces hands down with regards to their ease of use. Because they're removable, the retainers won't interfere with your lifestyle as much as braces would. You'll have an easier time cleaning invisalign retainers because you're able to detach them from teeth. Also, invisalign retainers won't deter engagement in your favorite sporting activities. You'll simply have to slip the retainers off and slip on a mouth guard before heading for the pitch.

Comfort: Invisalign retainers offer greater levels of comfort because they're made of a softer material. Contact between your tongue and the metallic surface of regular braces poses the ever-present threat of tongue cuts.

Isn't Metal Stronger Than Plastic? You might be forgiven to think that metal braces would be more effective for your overbite on the premise that metal is a stronger material than plastic. Re-alignment of teeth is achieved through constant applicant of a slight force on the affected teeth. Plastic invisalign retainers will still apply sufficient force for re-alignment despite being 'weaker' than metal braces.