Straightforward Payments, Flexible Options
We understand that dental care is a necessary investment in your health, and our goal is to make that investment manageable. Before any treatment begins, you’ll receive a detailed plan outlining every aspect of your care, including fees, insurance estimates, and payment options. We accept most major dental insurance plans, and our knowledgeable team will help you understand your benefits so there are no surprises along the way.
If you’re uninsured or seeking additional support, we offer several payment options to fit your needs. In addition to cash, checks, and major credit cards, we also accept CareCredit®—a healthcare financing program that lets you receive the care you need now and pay over time. At Madison Dental Care, we never want cost to be a barrier between you and a healthy smile.
What Is an Underbite, and Can Invisalign Fix It?
An underbite occurs when the lower jaw protrudes forward, causing the lower teeth to sit in front of the upper teeth when the mouth is closed. This misalignment can range from mild to severe and may lead to issues like difficulty chewing, speech problems, jaw pain, or uneven tooth wear.
Can Invisalign correct an underbite? In many cases, yes! Invisalign clear aligners in Madison are designed to address a variety of dental misalignments, including mild to moderate underbites. For more severe cases, our Invisalign providers may recommend a combination of Invisalign and other orthodontic treatments to achieve optimal results.
What Causes an Underbite?
An underbite is primarily caused by an imbalance in the size or position of the upper jaw and lower jaws. Understanding these causes helps determine the best treatment approach:
- Genetics: Hereditary factors play the largest role in underbite development, with jaw size and positioning often passed down through families.
- Childhood Habits: Prolonged thumb sucking, pacifier use beyond age three, or tongue thrusting can alter jaw development and tooth positioning.
- Medical Conditions: Cleft palate, cleft lip, or tumors affecting jaw growth can contribute to underbite formation during development.
- Injuries: Facial trauma or jaw injuries during childhood can disrupt normal jaw growth patterns and lead to underbite conditions.
- Poor Dental Health: Early tooth loss or untreated dental problems can cause teeth to shift and affect bite alignment over time.
To learn more about Invisalign aligners and how they can correct your smile, contact our dentist in Madison by calling (256) 772-2626.
Why Our Patients Love Invisalign for Underbite Correction
Nearly Invisible Treatment
Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, so you can feel confident throughout your treatment journey. Whether you’re giving a presentation at work, attending social events, or simply going about your daily routine, you can smile freely knowing that your orthodontic treatment is discreet and professional-looking.
Exceptional Comfort
Made from smooth, BPA-free plastic, Invisalign aligners are custom-designed to fit comfortably over your teeth without irritating your gums or cheeks. There are no metal wires or brackets to cause cuts or sores, and you’ll avoid those emergency visits that can happen with traditional braces. The gentle, gradual pressure that Invisalign applies is much more comfortable than the significant adjustments required with conventional orthodontic treatment.
Freedom and Flexibility
One of our patients’ favorite benefits is that Invisalign aligners are completely removable. You can take them out for meals, which means no food restrictions—enjoy pizza, popcorn, or anything else you love! This removability also makes maintaining excellent oral hygiene simple and straightforward, just like your normal brushing and flossing routine.
Advanced Technology for Predictable Results
Invisalign uses sophisticated 3D technology to plan your entire treatment from start to finish. You’ll even get to see a preview of your future smile before you begin treatment, giving you confidence and excitement about the journey ahead.
Convenient for Your Busy Life
With Invisalign, you’ll typically need fewer office visits compared to traditional braces. We’ll provide you with multiple sets of aligners that you can change at home according to your treatment schedule, saving you valuable time while ensuring your treatment progresses perfectly.
What Happens If I Don’t Treat My Underbite?
Leaving an underbite untreated can lead to serious complications that affect both oral health and quality of life:
Functional Problems
Chewing Difficulties: Improper bite alignment makes it challenging to chew food effectively, potentially affecting digestion and nutrition. This can limit your dietary choices and impact overall health.- Speech Issues: Underbites can interfere with proper tongue placement, leading to speech difficulties including lisping, trouble pronouncing certain sounds, and reduced speech clarity.
- TMJ Disorders: Misaligned jaws place extra stress on temporomandibular joints, causing jaw pain, clicking sounds, headaches, and difficulty opening your mouth comfortably.
Oral Health Consequences
- Uneven Tooth Wear: Abnormal bite forces cause premature wear on specific teeth, leading to enamel loss, increased cavity risk, and potential tooth fractures requiring expensive restorative treatment.
- Gum Disease Risk: Misaligned teeth are harder to clean properly, leading to plaque buildup, gingivitis, and advanced periodontal disease that can result in tooth loss.
- Increased Injury Risk: Protruding lower teeth are more susceptible to trauma during accidents, sports activities, or falls, potentially requiring emergency dental treatment.