If you’ve ever looked at photos of yourself and thought, “My bite looks a little off,” you’re not alone. Overbites and underbites are incredibly common, and they can affect more than just your smile. They can change how your teeth wear down, how your jaw feels at the end of the day, and even how confident you feel when you laugh or speak.

The big question people ask now is whether clear aligners can actually fix these bite issues—or if you need traditional braces or something more involved. The good news is that clear aligners have come a long way. For many people, they can absolutely correct mild to moderate bite problems, and in some cases even more complex ones, as long as the plan is designed carefully and you stick with it.

That said, not every overbite or underbite is the same. The “what’s possible” part depends on what’s causing the bite issue (teeth position, jaw structure, habits, missing teeth, and more), and how your orthodontic plan is set up. Let’s break it down in a practical way so you can understand what clear aligners can do, where their limits are, and how to tell what category you might fall into.

First, what counts as an overbite or underbite?

Overbite: when the top teeth overlap too much

An overbite happens when your upper front teeth cover too much of your lower front teeth when you bite down. A little overlap is normal, but when it’s excessive, it can lead to issues like lower teeth hitting the roof of the mouth, premature wear on the front teeth, or a “deep bite” that makes the lower teeth look like they disappear.

Some overbites are mostly dental (your teeth are angled or positioned in a way that creates the overlap), while others are skeletal (your jaw structure creates the relationship). Clear aligners are generally very good at dental overbites and can also help with some skeletal-looking cases when the main driver is tooth position.

It’s also worth noting that overbites often come with other patterns—like crowding, a narrow upper arch, or flared upper teeth. Aligners can address these combinations, but the plan needs to account for the full picture, not just the front teeth.

Underbite: when the lower teeth sit in front

An underbite is the opposite: your lower front teeth sit in front of your upper front teeth when you bite down. This can range from mild edge-to-edge contact to a more pronounced bite where the lower jaw looks more prominent.

Underbites can be dental (upper teeth tipped inward, lower teeth tipped outward, or both) or skeletal (lower jaw positioned forward, upper jaw positioned back, or a mix). Clear aligners can often correct dental underbites and some mild-to-moderate cases that look skeletal but are actually driven by tooth position and arch shape.

Because underbites can involve crossbites (where back teeth bite the wrong way), treatment planning becomes especially important. Aligners can widen arches and correct crossbites in many patients, but severe skeletal underbites may require a different approach.

How clear aligners actually move a bite (not just straight teeth)

It’s about controlled tooth movement and bite “staging”

A common misconception is that aligners only straighten teeth cosmetically. In reality, aligners can move teeth in multiple directions—tilting, rotating, intruding (moving up), extruding (moving down), and shifting roots—when the plan uses the right sequence and support features.

For bite correction, “staging” matters. That means your provider plans which teeth move first, which teeth need anchorage, and how your bite will settle as treatment progresses. When bite correction is the goal, the trays aren’t just lining things up; they’re coordinating the upper and lower arches so they fit together properly.

This is why two people can have the same “type” of bite issue and get different treatment plans. It’s not only the diagnosis; it’s also the biomechanics and sequencing that determine whether aligners can predictably deliver the result.

Attachments, elastics, and bite ramps: the “hidden helpers”

If you’ve seen someone with aligners and wondered why they have little tooth-colored bumps, those are attachments. They give the aligner something to grip so it can apply more precise forces. Attachments are often essential for bite correction, especially for overbites where the front teeth may need intrusion or controlled tipping.

Elastics (small rubber bands) can also be part of aligner treatment. They connect upper and lower teeth to guide the bite relationship—similar to how elastics are used with braces. For certain overbites and underbites, elastics can be the difference between “mostly improved” and “properly corrected.”

Some aligner systems also use bite ramps or pressure points to help reduce a deep bite. These features can temporarily change how your teeth touch, giving the back teeth a chance to come together while the front bite is being corrected. It can feel strange at first, but it’s a common tool for deep overbites.

Which overbites are typically aligner-friendly?

Mild to moderate deep bites caused by tooth position

If your overbite is mainly because your upper front teeth are tipped too far forward or your lower front teeth are slightly crowded and pushed back, aligners are often a great option. In these cases, correcting crowding, improving arch form, and adjusting tooth angles can reduce the overbite significantly.

Deep bites can also be improved by intruding the front teeth (moving them slightly upward into the gum) or by allowing the back teeth to “come up” a bit so the bite opens. Aligners can do this, but it requires careful planning and consistent wear.

Many people are surprised that deep bite correction can also improve comfort. If your lower front teeth are hitting behind your upper teeth in a stressful way, reducing that overlap can ease strain and reduce wear—especially if you clench or grind.

Overbites paired with crowding or spacing

Overbites often come with crowding, especially in the lower front teeth. When the lower teeth are crowded, they can sit further back than ideal, making the overbite look worse. Aligners excel at relieving crowding, and that alone can improve the bite relationship.

Spacing can also play a role. If you have gaps in one arch, teeth may drift and create an uneven bite. Closing spaces in a controlled way can help coordinate the arches so the bite fits more evenly.

In some plans, small amounts of enamel reshaping (IPR) are used to create space for teeth to move without pushing them outward. That can be especially helpful if your overbite is paired with a narrow arch and you don’t want the teeth to flare.

Which underbites can clear aligners improve?

Dental underbites (tooth-driven) often respond well

If your underbite is mostly because the upper teeth are tipped inward, or the lower teeth are tipped outward, aligners can often correct that by adjusting the angles and positions of those teeth. This is sometimes called “camouflage” treatment, but don’t let the name fool you—it can be a real, functional improvement when the jaws are otherwise reasonably aligned.

Correcting a dental underbite can also improve how your teeth bite together in the back. When the front teeth are in the wrong relationship, the back teeth often compensate, leading to uneven wear patterns.

Aligners can also help broaden a narrow upper arch in some patients, which can reduce the appearance of an underbite and improve the bite fit. Not everyone is a candidate for significant expansion, but mild-to-moderate arch development is common in aligner plans.

Mild skeletal patterns: sometimes, but with realistic expectations

If your lower jaw is truly forward relative to your upper jaw, aligners can still help in certain mild cases—especially if the bite issue is borderline and tooth position can compensate. But this is where expectations matter: aligners can move teeth, not jaws (at least in adults).

For teens who are still growing, some aligner systems can incorporate growth guidance features, and orthodontists may combine aligners with other appliances. For adults, skeletal underbites that are more pronounced may require a discussion about surgical orthodontics if the goal is a fully corrected jaw relationship.

That doesn’t mean aligners are “pointless” in skeletal cases. Many adults choose a non-surgical approach to improve function and appearance as much as possible. The key is understanding what the treatment can realistically achieve and whether the trade-offs are acceptable for you.

What can limit clear aligners for overbites and underbites?

Severe skeletal discrepancies and jaw asymmetry

The biggest limitation is when the jaws themselves are significantly out of alignment. If your bite problem is driven primarily by jaw size or position, teeth can only compensate so much before they end up in unstable or unhealthy positions.

Jaw asymmetry can also complicate things. If one side of your jaw sits differently than the other, the bite may not be fixable with tooth movement alone. Aligners can still help align teeth and improve the bite, but the plan may need to accept a “best possible” result rather than a textbook one.

This is why a thorough orthodontic evaluation matters. Photos and a quick scan are helpful, but for bite correction, X-rays and a careful functional exam are often needed to understand the true cause.

Compliance: aligners only work when they’re worn

Aligners are famously discreet, but they’re also removable—which is both a benefit and a responsibility. Bite corrections often require very consistent wear (typically 20–22 hours a day). If trays are worn inconsistently, teeth may not track properly, and bite changes can stall or become less predictable.

With bite issues, it’s not just about being “close enough.” If a few teeth lag behind, the upper and lower arches may stop coordinating correctly. That can lead to refinements (extra sets of trays) or extended treatment time.

If you’re the kind of person who forgets to put things back, or you snack frequently throughout the day, it’s worth thinking about whether aligners fit your lifestyle. Some people do better with fixed braces simply because there’s less day-to-day management.

Clear aligners vs braces for bite correction: how to think about the trade-offs

Predictability, complexity, and “hands-on” adjustments

Both braces and aligners can fix bites—sometimes equally well. Braces have the advantage of being on 24/7 and allowing very hands-on, in-chair adjustments. Aligners rely more on the upfront plan and your wear habits, but they can still be highly effective with the right case selection and monitoring.

If you’re weighing your options, it helps to read a detailed comparison of dental braces vs clear aligners so you can see how comfort, aesthetics, treatment time, and complexity differ. For many overbite and underbite cases, the “best” choice depends on your specific bite mechanics, not just your preference for how the appliance looks.

Another practical difference is how each option affects your routine. Aligners make brushing and flossing easier for many people, while braces remove the temptation to take anything out. Neither is automatically better—it’s about matching the tool to the job and the patient.

When a hybrid approach makes sense

Sometimes the smartest plan isn’t “aligners only” or “braces only.” Some patients start with braces for a short phase to handle tricky movements, then switch to aligners for finishing. Others use aligners with elastics for most of treatment, but need a brief fixed phase to perfect the bite.

Hybrid approaches can be especially useful in bite cases where one or two teeth are stubborn, or where the bite needs very fine detailing at the end. The goal is a stable bite that feels good—not just straight teeth on a scan.

If your provider suggests a phased or hybrid plan, it’s usually because they’re aiming for predictability and stability, not because aligners “failed.” Bite correction can be nuanced, and flexibility is often a sign of good planning.

Invisalign, ClearCorrect, and other brands: does the system matter for overbites and underbites?

Brand matters less than planning, but features can differ

People often ask whether one aligner brand is “better” for bite correction. The honest answer is that the clinician’s diagnosis, planning, and follow-through matter the most. That said, different systems can have different material properties, software workflows, and attachment strategies, which may influence how a provider approaches certain movements.

If you’re comparing options, it can help to understand the difference between Invisalign and ClearCorrect, especially around how treatment is planned and what features might be available. In many cases, both systems can treat overbites and underbites effectively, but your provider may prefer one based on experience and the details of your case.

It’s also worth asking who is managing your treatment and how often you’ll be monitored. Bite correction usually benefits from regular check-ins so adjustments can be made early if teeth aren’t tracking as expected.

Attachments and elastic protocols vary by provider

Even within the same aligner system, two providers can use very different strategies. One might use more attachments for control, while another might use fewer for aesthetics. One might introduce elastics early, while another waits until mid-treatment.

For overbites and underbites, those choices can have a real impact on how smoothly treatment goes. If you’re considering aligners, ask specifically: “How will you correct my bite?” A confident provider should be able to explain whether they expect to use elastics, bite ramps, expansion, IPR, or other tools.

It’s also fair to ask what the refinement process looks like. Many bite cases need at least one refinement phase, and that’s normal. The key is whether refinements are planned for and supported—not treated like a surprise.

What your assessment should include (so you’re not guessing)

Scans, X-rays, and a functional bite check

For bite correction, you want more than a quick cosmetic consult. Digital scans are great for seeing tooth alignment, but X-rays help evaluate roots, bone levels, and jaw relationships. A functional exam checks how your teeth meet when you chew and slide your jaw, and whether you have signs of wear or muscle strain.

Overbites and underbites can be tied to TMJ symptoms, clenching, or grinding. While aligners aren’t a cure-all for TMJ issues, improving bite harmony can reduce certain triggers for discomfort in some patients. It’s important that your provider screens for these factors early.

You should also expect a discussion about retention. Once a bite is corrected, keeping it stable is the next challenge. Retainers aren’t optional—especially for cases where bite changes were significant.

Understanding whether extra steps are needed (IPR, elastics, extractions)

Some bite cases require creating space so teeth can move into healthier positions. That might involve IPR (tiny amounts of enamel polishing between teeth), which is common and conservative when done properly. In other cases, extractions may be recommended to address severe crowding or to allow bite correction without flaring teeth.

Elastics are another “extra step” that can be essential. If you’re not open to wearing elastics, it’s better to say so upfront. Your provider can tell you whether elastics are optional or a key part of making the bite correction work.

Finally, if missing teeth, implants, or crowns are part of your situation, bite correction may need coordination with restorative work. Aligners can be fantastic in multidisciplinary plans, but timing matters—especially if you’re planning implants, since implants don’t move like natural teeth.

What treatment can feel like day to day (and what’s normal)

The first weeks: pressure, speech changes, and new habits

Most people feel pressure when switching to a new tray, especially in the first few days. That pressure is a sign the aligners are working, but it shouldn’t be sharp or alarming. Mild tenderness is common; severe pain isn’t something to ignore.

Some people notice slight speech changes at first, particularly with “s” sounds. This usually improves as your tongue adapts. Staying hydrated and reading out loud for a few minutes a day can help you adjust faster.

The biggest habit shift is removing aligners to eat and drink anything other than water, then brushing before putting them back in. It’s manageable, but it does require a bit of planning—especially if you’re out and about.

Mid-treatment bite weirdness: often part of the process

When you’re correcting an overbite or underbite, your bite can feel “off” at different stages. You might notice only certain teeth touching, or your bite feeling uneven for a few weeks. This can be normal because teeth are moving in a planned sequence.

That said, you should feel like you’re being monitored. If your bite feels dramatically worse or you can’t chew comfortably, bring it up. Sometimes a small adjustment—like changing elastic wear, adding an attachment, or rescanning—can get things back on track.

It also helps to remember that bite correction is often a two-step dance: first you create space and align teeth, then you “settle” the bite so it fits naturally. The settling phase may include refinements, and that’s not a failure—it’s part of finishing well.

The money side: what affects aligner cost for bite cases?

Complexity, duration, and refinements

When people search for clear aligners, cost is usually right up there with “Will this actually work for me?” Bite correction tends to be more complex than simple straightening, which can affect overall cost. More complex cases may need more trays, more appointments, and more refinements to get the bite just right.

In many clinics, pricing is based on case complexity (mild, moderate, comprehensive) rather than the exact number of trays. Bite problems like deep overbites, underbites, crossbites, or significant crowding can move you into a more comprehensive tier.

If you want a realistic sense of what goes into invisalign pricing, look for breakdowns that explain what’s included (records, retainers, refinements, follow-ups) and what might be extra (replacement aligners, additional imaging, or special appliances). The details matter more than the headline number.

Insurance, payment plans, and value beyond aesthetics

Some dental insurance plans include orthodontic coverage for adults, while others don’t. Even when coverage exists, it may be a lifetime maximum rather than a percentage. It’s worth checking your plan carefully and asking the clinic to help you estimate benefits.

Payment plans can make treatment more accessible, and many offices offer monthly options. If you’re comparing quotes, ask whether retainers are included, whether refinements are included, and what happens if treatment takes longer than expected.

Also, consider the value side. Correcting an overbite or underbite can reduce abnormal wear, improve cleaning access, and make chewing more comfortable. For many people, it’s not “just cosmetic,” and that can change how you think about the investment.

How to know if your overbite or underbite is likely fixable with aligners

Green flags that aligners may be a good fit

Aligners tend to be a strong option when your bite issue is mild to moderate, when your teeth and gums are generally healthy, and when you’re motivated to wear trays consistently. If your provider shows you a clear plan for how the bite will change—not just how the teeth will look—that’s another great sign.

It also helps if you’re comfortable with the possibility of attachments and elastics. People sometimes hope for “invisible and effortless,” but bite correction usually needs a few visible helpers. The trade-off is still much more discreet than braces for many patients.

Finally, a good sign is when your provider talks about retention and long-term stability from the start. Bite correction isn’t only about getting there—it’s about staying there.

Signals you may need braces, surgery, or a more involved plan

If your underbite is severe, if your jaws are significantly mismatched, or if you have pronounced facial asymmetry, aligners alone may not be the best tool. In those cases, you might still use aligners as part of a bigger plan, but it may involve braces, orthopedic appliances (for growing patients), or jaw surgery for adults seeking full skeletal correction.

Another signal is when teeth are already compromised—significant gum recession, loose teeth, or advanced bone loss can limit how much movement is safe. That doesn’t mean you can’t do orthodontics, but it may require periodontal care first and a more conservative movement plan.

If you’ve had multiple rounds of orthodontics or your bite has relapsed significantly, your provider may recommend a more robust retention strategy (for example, a combination of fixed and removable retainers). Relapse doesn’t mean you can’t succeed—it just means the plan needs to be built for your history.

Making your next step feel simple

Questions worth asking at your consult

To get clarity quickly, ask questions that force specifics: “Is my bite issue dental or skeletal?” “Will I need elastics?” “How many refinements do you expect?” “What’s the retention plan after treatment?” These questions help you understand the roadmap instead of just the marketing.

You can also ask to see examples of similar bite cases your provider has treated. Seeing before-and-after results for overbites or underbites—especially with aligners—can help you set realistic expectations.

And if you’re comparing providers, pay attention to how they explain trade-offs. A trustworthy recommendation usually includes both benefits and limitations, not just a promise that everything will be easy.

What “success” looks like beyond straight teeth

A great outcome isn’t only a straight smile. It’s a bite that feels comfortable, teeth that contact in a stable way, and a result you can maintain. For overbites, success might mean less wear and a healthier front-to-back bite relationship. For underbites, it might mean improved function, better front tooth guidance, and reduced crossbite issues.

Clear aligners can absolutely deliver those outcomes for many people—but the best results happen when the plan is personalized, the bite is monitored, and you’re consistent with wear.

If you’ve been wondering whether aligners can fix your overbite or underbite, the most helpful next step is a thorough evaluation that looks at both teeth and jaw relationships. Once you know what’s driving your bite, it becomes much easier to know what’s possible—and what path will get you there with the least friction.