Does Invisalign Fix an Overbite?
Yes, Invisalign can fix many mild to moderate overbites, usually over 12 to 18 months, using attachments, built-in bite ramps and elastics; severe overbites caused by the position of the jaws are often better treated with fixed braces, and some need jaw surgery. In London, adult Invisalign for a bite correction usually falls in the comprehensive range, from around £4,000.
| Type of overbite | Can Invisalign treat it? | Typical approach | Typical time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild deep bite (teeth-related) | Usually yes | Aligners with bite ramps and attachments | 6–12 months |
| Moderate deep bite | Often yes | Comprehensive aligners, bite ramps, elastics | 12–18 months |
| Overjet (upper teeth stick out) from tooth position | Often yes | Aligners with elastics, sometimes IPR or extractions | 12–18 months |
| Overjet in a growing teenager | Sometimes | Aligners with mandibular advancement features | 12–24 months |
| Severe skeletal overbite in an adult | Rarely on its own | Fixed braces, often with jaw surgery | 18–36 months |
The only way to know which group you fall into is an examination, often with X-rays. At Orthodontists London we assess the bite before recommending aligners, and we will tell you if fixed braces would get a better result.
What is an overbite?
People use "overbite" for two different problems, and it matters which one you have.
Deep bite. Orthodontists use "overbite" for the vertical overlap of the front teeth. Some overlap is normal. In a deep bite, the upper front teeth cover too much of the lower front teeth, sometimes so much that the lower teeth bite into the gum behind the upper teeth.
Overjet. What most people mean by "overbite" is actually overjet: the upper front teeth sticking forward, horizontally, in front of the lower teeth. Large overjets make front teeth more likely to be damaged in a fall.
Many people have both. Both can be teeth-related, where the teeth are in the wrong position on normal jaws, or skeletal, where the jaws themselves are out of proportion, typically a lower jaw that sits further back.
How does Invisalign correct a deep bite?
Aligners reduce a deep bite by moving the front teeth vertically and, in some cases, letting the back teeth come up slightly. The main tools are:
- Bite ramps. Small raised areas built into the back of the upper front aligners. The lower front teeth hit them first, which takes pressure off the back teeth and helps the bite open.
- Attachments. Tooth-coloured bumps bonded to certain teeth give the aligners something to push against, which is essential for vertical movements.
- Intrusion of the front teeth. The aligners gently push the upper and lower front teeth up into the gum, a small amount at a time.
- Levelling the curve of the lower teeth. Many deep bites come with a deep curve in the lower arch, which needs flattening.
Deep bite correction is one of the harder movements for aligners, so careful planning matters and refinements are common.
How does Invisalign correct an overjet?
To reduce protruding upper front teeth, aligners need to bring the upper front teeth back, the lower teeth forward, or both. Approaches include:
- Elastics. Small rubber bands hooked between the upper and lower aligners, usually from the upper canines to the lower back teeth, which help shift the bite.
- Creating space. IPR, gentle polishing between teeth, or occasionally removing teeth, so the upper front teeth can move back.
- Mandibular advancement. For growing teenagers, aligners with wing-like features hold the lower jaw forward to encourage growth into a better position. This only works while the jaw is still growing.
When is Invisalign not enough for an overbite?
Aligners are less suitable where:
- The overbite is mainly skeletal and severe, for example a short or set-back lower jaw in an adult.
- A large overjet needs significant root movement of the front teeth.
- The deep bite is very large and needs major vertical changes at the back of the mouth.
- You are unlikely to wear aligners and elastics for about 22 hours a day.
In these cases, fixed braces are usually more predictable. Adults with a significant jaw discrepancy may need orthodontics combined with jaw surgery, which a specialist orthodontist plans with a maxillofacial surgeon. Our guide to Invisalign vs braces compares the two in more detail.
Next step
Talk to a London orthodontist
Tell us what you are looking for and we will be in touch to arrange a consultation. There is no obligation to go ahead.
Request a consultationHow long does Invisalign take to fix an overbite?
Most overbite corrections with aligners take 12 to 18 months, and mild cases can take 6 to 12 months. Bite correction usually needs more aligners and at least one refinement stage, so allow for the upper end of the estimate. Wearing elastics as instructed has a big effect on the timeline. See how long Invisalign takes for timelines by case type.
How much does Invisalign for an overbite cost?
Because bite correction needs a comprehensive package, it costs more than a short cosmetic course. Typical figures:
| Treatment | Typical UK price | Typical London price |
|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive Invisalign (bite correction) | £3,500–£5,500 | £4,000–£6,000 |
| Moderate Invisalign (mild bite change) | £2,500–£3,500 | £2,800–£4,000 |
| Metal fixed braces (for comparison) | £2,000–£3,500 | from £2,800–£3,650 |
Ask whether elastics, refinements and retainers are included. Our Invisalign cost guide explains what a quote should cover.
Why does correcting an overbite matter?
Some people want to correct an overbite purely for appearance. There can be practical reasons too. A large overjet leaves the upper front teeth exposed to damage. A very deep bite can wear the lower front teeth, irritate the gum behind the upper teeth and make it harder to fit crowns or veneers later. Correcting the bite can make the result of straightening more stable, because teeth that meet properly are less likely to drift.
Will the overbite come back after Invisalign?
It can, which is why retention is essential. Deep bites in particular tend to relapse. Most orthodontists recommend wearing a removable retainer every night for at least the first year and then regularly long term. Some upper retainers include a small bite plane to help hold a corrected deep bite. Our retainer guide explains the options.
Find out if aligners suit your bite
We examine your teeth and bite, take a 3D scan and X-rays if needed, and show you a digital plan where aligners are suitable. If fixed braces or a combined approach would work better, we explain why. Request a consultation through our online form and we will be in touch to arrange it.
Frequently asked questions
Can Invisalign fix an overbite in adults?
How long does it take for Invisalign to fix an overbite?
Do you need elastics with Invisalign for an overbite?
Is Invisalign or braces better for an overbite?
Can Invisalign fix an overbite without surgery?
Related guides
Next step
Talk to a London orthodontist
Tell us what you are looking for and we will be in touch to arrange a consultation. There is no obligation to go ahead.
Request a consultation