If you’ve been told you have an overbite, one of the first questions you may ask is: How long do you wear braces for overbite? This is one of the most common orthodontic concerns, and the answer depends on several key factors.

An overbite happens when the upper front teeth extend too far beyond the lower teeth. It’s not just a cosmetic issue — it can also affect your bite, cause jaw discomfort, and lead to long-term wear on your teeth if untreated.

The good news is that overbites are highly treatable. Whether you choose traditional braces or a more discreet option like Invisalign, understanding the expected treatment time can help you feel more confident and prepared. In this article, we’ll walk you through how long treatment usually takes, what affects the timeline, and what your journey might look like.

What Causes an Overbite?

Overbites can have different underlying causes:

• Genetics (hereditary factors)
• Childhood habits like thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use
• Imbalances in jaw development during growth

In some cases, it's mainly about the position of the teeth; in others, the shape of the jaws plays a role too.

How Do Braces Help Correct an Overbite?

Braces – in all their forms – work by gradually moving your teeth into a better position. This can be done with:

• Traditional fixed braces, like metal or ceramic brackets
• Clear aligners, such as Invisalign

Invisalign is especially suitable for mild to moderate overbites and is popular among adults who want something more discreet. The aligners are removable and barely noticeable, making them easier to fit into everyday life. For children and teens, fixed braces are often used, especially when jaw growth needs to be guided.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

Treatment time varies, but in general:

• Mild overbite: Sometimes corrected in about 12 months
• Moderate to severe overbite: Often takes 18–30 months
• Children and teens: Typically quicker due to ongoing jaw development
• Adults: May take longer, but excellent results are still possible

The best way to get an accurate timeline is through a personal consultation with an orthodontist.

What Affects Treatment Duration?

Several factors influence how long it takes to fix an overbite:

• Severity: More correction means more time
• Age: Younger patients tend to respond faster to treatment
• Type of braces:
• • Invisalign is comfortable and discreet, but requires consistent wear (about 22 hours a day)
  • Fixed braces often apply more direct force and can be faster in some cases
• Your cooperation: Attending regular checkups and following instructions closely helps things move along smoothly
• Additional procedures: In some cases, extractions or jaw surgery may be needed, which can extend the timeline

Can You Speed Up the Process?

If your overbite is on the milder side, there are modern methods designed to reduce treatment time:

• Invisalign Express: for small adjustments; treatment may be done in under 6 months
• Accelerated orthodontics: techniques that stimulate faster tooth movement
• Fastbraces: a system that can speed up results for certain cases

That said, it’s important to have realistic expectations – fast results aren’t always the most stable long-term.

How to Take Care of Your Teeth During Treatment

To get the best results and avoid delays or complications:

• Brush your teeth carefully after every meal
• Use floss or interdental brushes
• Avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage your braces
• Follow your orthodontist’s instructions, whether you’re wearing aligners or elastics
• Don’t skip your check-ups – even if things seem to be going well

Summary: One Step at a Time

Correcting an overbite usually takes between 1 and 3 years. The exact time depends on the severity of the overbite, your age, and which type of treatment you choose. If you're wondering how long do you wear braces for overbite, the answer will always come down to your individual case.

Invisalign can be a great option if you want something discreet and flexible. However, depending on your bite and tooth alignment, other treatments such as traditional braces might be more effective.

The best way to know how long you’ll need braces for overbite correction is to book a free consultation with an orthodontic specialist. You’ll receive a personalized assessment and learn which treatment options best match your needs and goals.