If your teeth are crooked, crowded, or otherwise misaligned, you may be eager to straighten them via orthodontic treatment. Still, you could hesitate to commit to traditional braces; you might prefer clear aligners instead. But can you still get Invisalign if you grind your teeth? The answer to that is determined on a case-by-case basis. Read this blog post to learn more about how grinding and clenching might affect your candidacy for Invisalign.
Teeth Grinding and Candidacy for Invisalign
Several factors will come under your dentist’s consideration as they determine whether Invisalign is right for you. Such factors include the extent of your dental misalignment, your specific circumstances and lifestyle, and notably, whether you exhibit signs of bruxism (habitual teeth grinding and clenching).
Many individuals who grind their teeth may still be eligible for Invisalign. However, if your bruxism is severe enough to necessitate the use of a special mouthguard at night, Invisalign may not be appropriate. This is because the use of a nighttime mouthguard would prevent you from wearing Invisalign for the required 20 – 22 hours each day. Consequently, your teeth would not be able to move as planned. In such cases, traditional braces may be a more suitable option.
How Does Teeth Grinding Affect Invisalign Aligners?
Invisalign aligner trays are constructed of a durable type of plastic. They are strong enough to move your teeth and endure a degree of pressure. However, they will wear out faster if you grind and clench your teeth while wearing them. The good news is that since you should switch to new aligners every 1 – 2 weeks, your bruxism may not be able to cause too much damage during that time.
If you do end up damaging an aligner to the point where it is no longer usable, talk to your dentist. They may order a replacement for you.
Can Invisalign Reduce Teeth Grinding?
If you grind your teeth during the day, Invisalign may help you break the habit by making you more aware of what you are doing. Therefore, it can be a powerful training tool.
It is also worth mentioning that dental misalignment can cause bruxism in some cases. As your teeth gradually straighten with the help of Invisalign, you may find that your tendency to grind and clench lessens.
Grinding your teeth might affect your ability to get Invisalign, but not necessarily! Talk to your dentist to learn more about your options for achieving a straighter, healthier smile.
Meet the Practice
At Comprehensive Dental Associates of Central Connecticut, we are proud to provide Invisalign, traditional braces, and solutions for teeth grinding. If you are concerned about bruxism or dental misalignment (or both), we are ready to evaluate your case and advise you on your next steps. Contact our knowledgeable team in East Hartford at 860-288-5786.