Clear aligner systems, such as Invisalign, are a wonderful way to straighten teeth! They are discreet, effective, and convenient. But are they right for you? If you grind your teeth, you might wonder how your habit will affect your candidacy for Invisalign. That really depends on the specifics of your unique situation. This blog post explains some details of the relationship between teeth grinding and Invisalign.
Understanding Teeth Grinding and Invisalign Candidacy
When you visit your dentist for an Invisalign consultation, they will evaluate several factors to determine if Invisalign is appropriate for your situation. These factors include the severity of your dental misalignment, your oral health history, and notably, the presence of bruxism.
You may still qualify for Invisalign if you grind your teeth. However, if your grinding is severe enough to require a custom nightguard, Invisalign may not be suitable. This is because you must wear Invisalign aligners for 20 – 22 hours each day to achieve the desired results. If you wear a nightguard overnight, the aligners would not remain in your mouth long enough to move your teeth properly. In such cases, your dentist might recommend traditional braces as a more suitable alternative.
The Effects of Teeth Grinding on Invisalign Aligners
Invisalign aligners are composed of a strong, durable plastic material that can withstand the pressure of typical tooth movements. However, if you grind and clench your teeth while wearing your aligners, you may notice that they wear out faster than usual. However, that might not be a deal-breaker for Invisalign. The treatment requires you to change your set of aligners every one to two weeks, and mild grinding may not cause significant damage within that timeframe.
If you do damage an aligner beyond usability, you should contact your dentist promptly. Your provider can help you obtain a replacement so you can continue moving forward with correcting your dental misalignment.
Can Invisalign Improve Teeth Grinding?
In some cases, Invisalign can actually reduce the tendency to clench and grind your teeth. For example, the presence of aligners in your mouth can remind you to avoid clenching or grinding during the day. Furthermore, if your grinding is due to dental misalignment, you might notice that it lessens as your teeth become straighter.
Consult Your Dentist for Personalized Guidance
Teeth grinding does not automatically disqualify you from receiving Invisalign, but it is something that needs to be taken into account. Talk to your dentist to learn more about how it might affect your orthodontic treatment journey.
Meet the Practice
At the Center for Contemporary Dentistry, our team proudly provides both Invisalign and traditional metal braces. If you are eager to straighten your teeth, we can welcome you in for a consultation and provide guidance on your next steps. We can also provide advice on how to manage teeth grinding. To learn more about us or to schedule a visit, contact our Belmont office at 603-556-7047.