08/18/2015 10:49
Overjet is not usually a familiar term to most dental patients. While the term “overbite” is more commonly used, the two mean somewhat different things. Overbite is the overlap between the top teeth and the bottom teeth in the front, typically 3 mm. In cases of a large overbite, the bottom teeth bite is very deeply behind the top teeth.
Overjet is primarily a technical term used by dentists, and refers to the distance at which the top teeth sit forward of the lower teeth. This distance is also typically 3 mm, but it can be as pronounced as 10 mm. In both overbite and overjet, the distances can be negative, meaning that the lower teeth are farther out in a reverse discrepancy. Yet, these instances are less common.
Invisalign orthodontic treatment can be useful for correcting both overbite and overjet. By using high-tech aligners to exert and relieve pressure to the teeth during a specific timeline, Invisalign is able to redefine the existing rules of your mouth. Working closely with your doctor, you may also find a treatment plan that uses adjunct orthodontics to compliment the straightening power of Invisalign. For instance, metal buttons or elastics may be worn along with your Invisalign aligners. These are significant aids against overbite and overjet. Special retainers are worn after treatment ends to further the upgrade.
It is important to remember that Invisalign cannot fix severe cases of malocclusion. One way to manage your expectations is to look at Invisalign before and after overjet pictures, which our dentist will be pleased to show you.
