If you’re thinking about correcting your overbite, home teeth aligners are well worth considering. Historically, bite correction has required a hefty commitment of time and money. But at-home aligner companies like Byte and SmileDirectClub now allow customers to correct mild and moderate bite issues quickly and affordably.
That said, home aligners aren’t the right fit for every case of overbite. Read on for an overview of the overbite conditions home aligner services can correct, the best home aligners for bite issues, and some alternatives if home teeth alignment isn’t right for you.
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What Is Overbite?
Overbite, also known as deep bite, is a type of dental misalignment where the lower teeth significantly overlap the upper ones. It’s commonly misunderstood, because most people have some degree of overbite, and most times, it doesn’t cause any issues. To be technically considered an overbite, however, the front teeth must cover over 50% of the bottom ones when biting down.
An overbite doesn’t always come with symptoms, but it can cause:
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
- Discomfort while eating
- Earaches
- Headaches
- Speech impediments
Since they cause the teeth to make contact in atypical locations, overbites can also cause uneven wear on your teeth and gums. Left untreated, this wear can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, temporomandibular disorders (TMD), and even tooth loss. Some cases of untreated overbite can also cause obstructive sleep apnea.
Overbite or Overjet?
Many people confuse these two conditions, and for good reason. They look fairly similar, and they both stem from the top and bottom arches not lining up. However, overbites are vertical misalignments, while overjets are horizontal. In other words, with an overbite, your top teeth point straight down, but with an overjet, they protrude diagonally.
At-home aligners can treat overjet as well, but only minor cases that stem from dental misalignments, not skeletal ones.
What Causes Overbite?
Genetics often play a role in any dental or jaw misalignment, including overbite. If your lower jaw is too small, your upper jaw is too large, or your teeth are crooked, it could cause an overbite. However, childhood habits can be equally responsible. Thumb-sucking or pacifier use past age three are other common causes, as are tongue thrusting, excessive nail-biting, or frequently chewing on objects like pens.
How Do Home Teeth Aligners Work?
Home teeth aligners are exactly what they sound like: aligners designed to treat dental concerns from home, without the added cost or hassle of making regular trips to the dentist. But what does the process of home teeth alignment actually entail?
To get the ball rolling, you’ll usually take impressions of your teeth using a kit from your provider (though some offer in-person scans as well). Then, you’ll mail the impressions back to them for their team of dentists to review. If the dentist in charge of your case determines that home aligners aren’t the right fit for you, the company will often refund you for the cost of the kit — usually around $49–$99.
After this step, your provider will use your impressions to design a series of custom aligners, and you should receive them in about one month. From there, it’s up to you to wear your aligners for 22+ hours each day — or ten hours if you choose a nighttime-only plan — keep up with your oral hygiene routine, and progress through the series of aligners as directed.
Can Home Teeth Aligners Fix Overbite?
In some cases, yes. Home aligners primarily excel at correcting crowding and spacing issues, but they can treat some cases of overbite too, depending on the condition’s cause and severity.
There are two main types of overbite: dental and skeletal. Dental overbites come from a misalignment of the teeth alone, which often occurs at the point of their initial eruption and persists into adulthood. Skeletal overbite, on the other hand, stems from an irregularity in jaw positioning. Most cases of mild-to-moderate overbite are dental, while skeletal cases often inhabit the severe end of the spectrum.
Because home alignment programs are less robust than traditional orthodontic options like Invisalign or braces, they’re limited when it comes to correcting issues caused by jaw misalignment. These severe cases typically require additional dental attachments and treatments (such as elastics or tooth shaving) to correct the issue. Because home teeth alignment typically doesn’t involve in-person dental visits, they cannot offer the same variety of supplemental treatments.
But again, there are many cases of overbite that home aligners can treat. If you have a mild or moderate case of dental overbite, you could be an ideal candidate for a home alignment system.
With all this in mind, let’s discuss a few home alignment services worth considering.
The Best At-Home Aligners for Overbite
Not all home aligners are created equal. Although it’s a relatively new industry, there are already several reliable brands backed by extensive research and proven results. These providers differ in cost, timeline, and service offerings, so some are better suited for correcting overbite than others.
But don’t worry — we’ve done the research for you, and compiled it into a shortlist of the best home aligner systems for overbite.
#1: Byte
Byte is one of the most innovative aligner treatments on the market. They provide a high-frequency vibration device called HyperByte to better seat your aligners for a more comfortable aligner fit and possibly faster dental shifts. Byte claims their average treatment plan length is just 4-5 months. Plus, they put a lifetime guarantee on your smile, and for those who’d prefer not to wear aligners all day, they offer “At-Night” aligners designed with thick, grind-resistant plastic.
Byte Pros
- Byte claims their average treatment plan length is just 4–5 months.
- Byte includes their high-frequency vibration device, the HyperByte, in the cost of your aligner bundle. There’s evidence that devices like this may provide a more comfortable aligner fit and faster dental shifts for some people.
- The Byte-For-Life guarantee provides new aligners if your teeth ever shift, as long as you continue purchasing and wearing their retainers as directed.
- Their financing plans don’t require a credit check, so everyone qualifies.
- Byte-At-Night only requires ten hours of continuous wear per day instead of the usual 22.
- Byte includes one set of aftercare retainers for free.
Byte Cons
- Byte doesn’t currently have any retail locations, so you’ll need to order an impression kit to get started.
- Byte’s $1,999 price tag is just average for the industry.
As with all other home alignment companies, Byte treats overbite on a case-by-case basis and cannot promise transformative results for severe bite issues. After completing your impressions, one of their dentists will analyze your case to determine if their aligners will work for your unique condition. You’ll be notified as soon as they confirm your eligibility, and from there, it’ll be up to you to decide if you wish to move forward!
Want to see what real Byte customers have to say? Check out these authentic reviews from customers who used Byte to correct overbite.
#2: Candid
Candid is a trailblazer in the world of clear aligners, the first to blend elements of traditional and remote care. Their hybrid at-home and in-office treatment model starts with a dentist visit, where you get an examination and digital scan. After that, you’ll complete regular check-ins using the CandidApp and CandidMonitoring kit — no additional office visits required.
Candid Pros
- Candid has a network of 300+ dentists, and they’re adding more all the time.
- The local dentist who examined you in-person will collaborate with Candid throughout the entire treatment process. Fully remote teeth alignment services like Byte and SmileDirectClub don’t offer this benefit.
- Since your dentist performs a 3D scan, you get to skip the impression kit.
- CandidMonitoring lets your dentist and Candid’s team evaluate your progress every step of the way, helping your treatment stay on track.
- Candid’s aligners are made from Zendura FLX plastic, so they’re flexible, durable, and powerful.
Candid Cons
- Candid treatment averages around $3,500, which is more than fully remote services, closer to what you’d pay for Invisalign or ClearCorrect.
- Financing varies between doctors, but isn’t always available.
- Candid’s average treatment time of 6–9 months is middle of the road when compared to other at-home options.
According to Candid, their aligners do not treat “severe alignment and spacing issues” because their system isn’t designed to deliver the type of extensive results the patient might want in those cases. But if your overbite is mild-to-moderate in severity, Candid might be an option. Just like Byte, a dentist will have to review the condition of your teeth to determine your eligibility. However, unlike Byte, Candid ensures you work one-on-one with a dentist. If you aren’t a good fit for Candid, your doctor will help you find the right treatment for you.
#3: SmileDirectClub
SmileDirectClub is easily the best-known brand of home teeth aligners on the market today. They’ve been straightening teeth since 2014 and served over 1.5 million customers to date. With over 100 SmileShops and a nighttime-only treatment option, they’re a highly convenient service. Plus, they have a lifetime smile warranty and extensive refund policies.
SmileDirectClub Pros
- SmileDirectClub has over 100 SmileShops and 1,000+ partnering dentists located across the U.S. where you can get a free teeth scan and skip the impression kit.
- Through SmilePay, every customer can receive financing, no credit check required.
- SmileDirectClub’s Nighttime Aligners allow you to complete your treatment by wearing aligners for just ten hours per day.
- Their Lifetime Smile Guarantee will provide new aligners if your teeth shift out of place in the future, as long as you purchase two sets of retainers every year and wear them as directed.
- SmileDirectClub issues full refunds within the first 30 days of treatment and partial refunds after that.
SmileDirectClub Cons
- SmileDirectClub has a mixed track record of customer service quality.
- They used to have a manufacturing partnership with Align Technology (makers of Invisalign) but now they produce their aligners in-house.
- SmileDirectClub charges an additional $125 fee for retainers after treatment.
SmileDirectClub handles bite issues much like the other two. They can often treat mild and moderate cases of overbite, but one of their network dentists will need to review an impression of your teeth to make the call before moving forward with treatment.
Want to see what real SmileDirectClub customers have to say? Check out these authentic reviews from customers who used SmileDirectClub to correct overbite.
What Are My Other Options?
While home aligners can be a convenient, affordable treatment method for mild-to-moderate cases of overbite, they’re certainly not the only option out there. If you aren’t a candidate for home aligner treatment or would feel more comfortable with a traditional in-person treatment plan, there are a few alternatives you can discuss with your dental care provider.
Braces
The longest-standing, most tried-and-true overbite treatment, braces have the sturdiness and versatility to provide impressive results. Orthodontists can supplement them with appliances like elastics and bite plates to produce even more incredible tooth and jaw transformations.
If you’re hesitant about the visible metal brackets and wires, there are several types of braces that are much less noticeable than traditional ones. However, even standard braces are pretty expensive, averaging $3,000–$8,000 (or significantly more for discreet options like lingual braces).
Invisalign
Invisalign is the original clear aligner treatment and widely considered an effective approach to correcting overbite. Invisalign can treat many of the same cases as braces by using invisible, removable aligners instead of metal brackets. These clear trays are similar in design to home aligners; the difference is that Invisalign is dentist-administered and therefore requires regular office visits.
This allows your dentist to employ treatments like tooth shaving, or appliances like Invisalign’s “Smartforce” attachments to facilitate more drastic and nuanced tooth and jaw adjustments. However, the cost of Invisalign is significantly higher than home teeth aligners — and even slightly higher than traditional braces.
ClearCorrect
If you’re set on in-office clear aligner treatment, but aren’t sold on Invisalign, ClearCorrect is one of their biggest direct competitors. Their process is almost identical to Invisalign, and their aligners can also incorporate attachments to treat severe cases and bite misalignments. ClearCorrect isn’t as experienced or prolific as Invisalign, but they charge dentists less for lab fees and have multiple plans — including one where you pay per aligner — so your treatment might be more affordable.
SureSmile
Another one of Invisalign’s oldest competitors, SureSmile launched its clear aligners in 2007. It can treat the same scope of misalignments as Invisalign, and the company says that their patients are less likely to need refinements after treatment. Despite this, they boast lower prices and, since they don’t have a specific mandatory scanner, providers can save money and pass those savings on to you.
3M Clarity Aligners
3M — the company behind Scotch Tape and Post-Its — creates clear aligners with incredible teeth-moving power thanks to their unique attachment placement. Clarity Aligners are only available to orthodontists, who can use two different proprietary materials to deliver a treatment highly customized to your condition. Since 3M also makes Clarity Clear Braces, orthodontists can also design a combination treatment that uses them simultaneously with aligners.
Final Thoughts
Home teeth alignment offers a convenient and affordable approach to correcting mild-to-moderate cases of overbite. Even if you’re just doing some initial research and browsing treatments, it’s fairly easy and low-risk to determine if you’re a good candidate for Byte, Candid, or SmileDirectClub. If you don’t qualify, they’ll reimburse any costs you incurred, and if you decide to take another route, you’re not obligated to continue.
That said, when choosing an overbite treatment option, there are a lot of moving parts to consider. Overbite is rarely a serious medical concern, so the most important thing is to choose the best fit for your personal goals, expectations, finances, and overall well-being. Pay a visit to your dentist to evaluate the severity of your condition and determine if home aligners could be a good fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes overbite?
Overbites have several possible causes. Genetics can play a role, like if you were born with an oversized upper jaw, an undersized lower jaw, or teeth that come in crooked. However, habits like excessive nail-biting, tongue thrusting, or chewing on objects like pens can cause it as well. Children who suck their thumbs or use pacifiers past age three are also at risk.
What problems can overbite cause?
Mild overbites rarely cause any problems, and don’t require medical attention. But more significant ones can cause jaw pain, discomfort while eating, earaches, headaches, and speech irregularities. An overbite can also cause uneven wear on your teeth and gums, eventually leading to tissue damage, tooth decay, periodontal disease, and possibly tooth loss.
Do overbites get worse with age?
They can. Sometimes, the space between your upper and lower jaws can increase with age, worsening your overbite. It’s best to get it treated soon after your diagnosis, or as soon as you notice it causing problems.
When should I be concerned about an overbite?
A minor overbite probably won’t have any effect on your daily activities, but if yours starts causing jaw pain or stiffness, discomfort when eating or speaking, or other symptoms, visit your dentist or orthodontist.
What’s the best treatment for an overbite?
It depends entirely on your unique case. Mild overbites can respond well to at-home clear aligners like Byte or SmileDirectClub, while moderate ones often require in-person care with braces, Invisalign, or other in-office clear aligners. Some severe cases require surgical intervention, but they’re rare.
How do I get started with at-home aligner treatment?
You will need to order an impression kit from your chosen home aligner company. The kit includes putty and trays, which you’ll use to make molds of your top and bottom dental arches before mailing them to the company. This process can sometimes be difficult, so SmileDirectClub offers physical locations where you can get free teeth scans, and Candid has every customer begin treatment by attending an appointment with one of their network dentists.
Do clear aligners hurt?
Customers often report experiencing tightness or discomfort during the first 1–2 days wearing a new set of aligners, after which the discomfort subsides. Some companies provide “chewies” or other devices to help ensure a more comfortable aligner fit.
Does insurance cover at-home aligner treatment?
If your insurance policy covers orthodontic treatment, it might cover at-home aligners from certain companies. For example, Byte is in network with multiple major insurance companies, including Aetna and Anthem. Reach out to your insurance provider to learn more.
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