An open bite means some upper and lower teeth do not meet when you close your mouth. It may affect biting into food and the way the teeth function. There is no single treatment that is right for every open bite.

Can clear aligners help?

Invisalign includes open bite among the conditions its clear aligners may treat. That is a starting point, not a promise that aligners are right for your bite. The cause, severity, jaw relationship, and health of your teeth all matter.

What happens at a consultation?

Dr. Wolkoff will listen to what concerns you, look at your teeth and bite, and discuss whether clear aligner treatment is appropriate. Some cases may call for a different orthodontic approach or a specialist referral. You will hear the options and limits before deciding.

Why an individual plan matters

Open bites vary. Two smiles that look similar in a photo can require different treatment paths. We focus on a careful diagnosis, realistic expectations, and a plan you understand.

Background source: Invisalign open bite guide ↗

Clear aligners spend much of the day against your teeth, so a simple cleaning habit is part of treatment. Invisalign’s patient guidance recommends rinsing aligners with lukewarm water, brushing them gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and keeping them in a protective case when they are out of your mouth.

A simple daily routine

1. Remove and rinse. Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water after taking them out. Avoid hot water, which the manufacturer says not to use with its cleaning products.
2. Clean gently. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and follow the cleaning instructions your dentist gives you. Rinse thoroughly before putting aligners back in.
3. Brush your teeth. After eating, clean your teeth before reinserting aligners when you can. Food and drink residue can be trapped against enamel.
4. Use the case. A case helps protect aligners from damage or being misplaced during meals.

What about a deeper clean?

Invisalign offers cleaning crystals for aligners and retainers. If you use them, follow the product instructions exactly and rinse the aligners thoroughly afterward. Ask our team before trying household cleaners or other products that may affect the material.

Keep the bigger picture in mind

Good aligner care also means wearing them as directed and bringing questions to your progress visits. If an aligner no longer fits or is damaged, call the office rather than trying to reshape it yourself.

Care guidance source: Invisalign patient resources ↗

Plaza Family Dentistry was built around a simple idea: a dental visit should feel personal, clear, and comfortable. From the first hello to the conversation after an exam, we want you to know what is happening and why.

A place where you can ask questions

We know dental care can feel daunting, especially if you have been away for a while. Our team welcomes your questions without judgment. We take time to hear your concerns, explain what we see, and discuss options that fit your needs.

One dentist who gets to know you

Dr. Eli Wolkoff is the sole dentist at the practice. He earned his dental degree at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine and completed a general practice residency in Brooklyn, where he served as chief resident. That training supports a careful, whole-mouth approach to preventive, restorative, and cosmetic care.

Thoughtful care in the Country Club Plaza

Our office is in the Plaza Time Building at 411 Nichols Road in Kansas City. We work to make visits organized, explain insurance and treatment costs clearly, and help you feel at home with the people caring for you.

Whether you are ready for a routine visit, have a concern about a tooth, or want to explore a change to your smile, we would be glad to meet you.