What is an overbite?

An overbite happens when your top front teeth sit too far forward over your lower teeth. Sometimes called “buck teeth”, it’s one of the most common types of bite misalignment.

A slight overbite is actually normal! Most people’s top teeth overlap the bottom teeth a little. But when the overlap is too large, it becomes a problem that may need orthodontic care.

Causes of an overbite

Overbites can develop for different reasons:

• Genetics: the size and shape of your jaw can make you more prone to bite issues.
• Childhood habits: thumb sucking, long-term dummy use, bottle feeding, or tongue thrusting.
• Adult behaviours: nail biting, chewing on pens, or grinding teeth can worsen an overbite over time.
• Missing or overcrowded teeth: gaps or crowding can affect how the bite comes together.

Impacts of an untreated overbite

While some people see it as a cosmetic concern only, an untreated overbite can cause bigger issues:

• Jaw pain or headaches from misaligned pressure.
• Speech difficulties or changes in pronunciation.
• Enamel wear and tooth damage from uneven contact.
• Gum irritation or higher risk of gum disease.
• Increased chance of cavities due to difficult cleaning.

Left untreated, an overbite can affect both the look of your smile and the health of your teeth and gums.

Can clear aligners correct an overbite?

Yes, clear aligners can correct many overbites. They work best for mild to moderate cases, where the upper teeth overlap a little more than they should. In these situations, aligners gently guide your teeth into a healthier position and improve the way your bite fits together.

At Dr Wondersmile, our clear aligners are designed to treat a wide range of smile concerns, including crowding, gaps, and overbites. Most treatments take around six months on average to complete, though your exact timeline will depend on your unique case.

How do clear aligners work for overbites?

Clear aligners straighten your teeth—and correct bite issues such as overbites—through a series of small, precise movements. Each aligner tray is slightly different from the one before, applying gentle pressure that gradually shifts your teeth into a healthier position.

At Dr Wondersmile, the process starts with an advanced 3D digital scan at one of our clinics. This gives us an exact model of your teeth and allows you to see a preview of your new smile before treatment even begins. Using that scan, our orthodontists design your treatment plan and craft a series of custom-fit aligners using certified German technology.

Every aligner features our unique triple-layer design:

• A robust inner shell for stability and controlled force.
• An elastic central layer that absorbs stress and keeps your aligner comfortable.
• A durable outer shell that resists grinding and staining.

You’ll wear your aligners for about 22 hours a day, switching sets as directed. Throughout your journey, our licensed orthodontists track your progress remotely via the Wondersmile app, making sure your overbite correction stays on schedule.

Clear aligners vs traditional braces for an overbite

Both clear aligners and braces can correct an overbite. The right option depends on how severe your case is, and what will deliver the best long-term results.

Clear aligners are effective for mild to moderate overbites. They’re virtually invisible, removable, and designed to fit into everyday life while still delivering predictable results. Most treatments take around six months on average, though your timeline will vary based on your teeth and bite.

For very severe or skeletal overbites, traditional orthodontic methods may still be recommended. Metal braces can apply stronger, more complex forces to shift teeth and jaws, and in some cases, jaw surgery may be necessary. Your orthodontist will advise you on the best path after examining your teeth and bite.
You can learn more about whether clear aligners or traditional braces are right for you in our blog.

Ready to see if clear aligners can fix your overbite?

Correcting an overbite doesn’t have to mean years in metal braces. At Dr Wondersmile, our invisible braces are designed to straighten teeth and correct mild to moderate bite issues with comfort, discretion, and predictable results.

Want to know if you’re a candidate?

It starts with our free Smile Quiz, a quick two-minute check to see if clear aligners could be the right fit for your overbite.

Frequently asked questions

How long do clear aligners take to fix an overbite?

Most overbite treatments with clear aligners take around six months on average, though it depends on the severity of your case and how consistently you wear your aligners. Some people notice visible changes in just a few weeks, while others may need closer to a year. 

Are clear aligners suitable for all ages?

Yes. Clear aligners can work for both teens and adults. For younger patients whose jaws are still growing, orthodontists may recommend different treatment options first. For adults, aligners are a discreet, lifestyle-friendly way to correct mild to moderate overbites. Your suitability is best confirmed with a professional 3D scan and personalised treatment plan.

Do I need to wear retainers after clear aligners?

Yes. Retainers are an essential part of keeping your results stable. They hold your teeth in their new position and prevent them from drifting back. Most people wear them nightly, but your orthodontist will give you a schedule tailored to your case.