Will overbite and teeth crowding weaken teeth?

I have an overbite with crowding of upper teeth. I am concerned, will that 'filing' of teeth reduce the enamel and cause weaker teeth?

2 answers to “Will overbite and teeth crowding...”

A: Filing for Invisalign is minor

Lance Timmerman, DMD

Sometimes referred to as slenderizing, the filing between the teeth is minor. If you are concerned, ask for some fluoride gel to place in the aligners to help reminerlize

A: What do you mean by "filing?"

Sanjay Narda, BChD

Having an overbite with crowding does not weaken teeth but crowded teeth are more likely to trap food which can result in decay. Generally, the best way to correct both an overbite and crowding is by orthodontic treatment. If the teeth are simply "filed" to correct the overbite, this will remove enamel which ... more

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Comments

Player8b
2 posts
11 Dec 2008

Thanks for the answer. This consultation was for an invisalign appliance to correct my crowded teeth. They mentioned that they apply sandpaper between the teeth to 'make room' and that I wouldn't notice any difference in the size or shape of the tooth. I am concerned however about tooth sensitivity from the removal of enamel.

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