Modern technology and techniques have made it more convenient than ever to achieve the straighter smile you’ve always wanted. Fortunately, you can say goodbye to having to endure the metal brackets and wires of traditional braces and wear Invisalign instead. This orthodontic treatment offers a discreet, comfortable, and convenient way to align your teeth with clear, removable aligners. However, you may be concerned if the treatment would still work for you since you grind your teeth. Read on to learn more about Invisalign and bruxism (teeth grinding).
First Things First: How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to move your pearly whites gently and effectively into their desired position. Generally, a patient will wear a pair of aligners for about two weeks and then move to the next set. Your teeth are moved into place with each set over time. While you can remove the aligners to eat and drink, you must wear them for at least 22 hours a day. Invisalign appeals to so many people because it is barely noticeable and allows you to still eat your favorite foods!
Can You Still Get Invisalign if You Grind Your Teeth?
In short, yes you can!
Bruxism (teeth grinding) is a condition where a person places undue stress on their teeth by pushing them against each other. It occurs mostly while you sleep, resulting in possible dental damage. Grinding your teeth at night can exert up to 250 pounds of force! Over time, your tooth enamel can be worn down and damaged. Many people are concerned that their Invisalign aligners will also be harmed due to their bruxism. While they are made from a special, flexible plastic material, they are still able to withstand the pressures of teeth grinding.
How Teeth Grinding Can Affect Invisalign Treatment
While you are still a good candidate for Invisalign even if you grind your teeth, there is a chance your bruxism will wear your aligners down faster. However, it is generally not a big deal! Since you are typically given a set of aligners to wear for two or so weeks, it is more than likely the teeth grinding won’t severely impact your aligners before it’s time to switch to your next set. If your aligners do happen to get damaged, your dentist can simply order a replacement set for you.
In reality, your clear aligners will actually serve as a barrier against potential damage caused to your teeth by bruxism, just like a nightguard would. So, if you already wore an oral appliance at night to protect your smile before your treatment, you won’t have to worry about your teeth becoming more affected by your teeth grinding.
Invisalign can transform your smile, even if you suffer from teeth grinding. By being consistent with your treatment and visiting your dentist on a regular basis, your condition won’t interfere with your journey to straighter teeth!
About the Author
Dr. Bikram Singh and his team at Cary Dental Rejuvenation are eager to help you achieve your dream smile! He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and was one of five honor students who were selected for the Honors Program for Medically Complex Patients. With individualized orthodontic treatment and the use of advanced dental technology, he offers Invisalign treatment to straighten your smile. To schedule a consultation, contact him through his website or call (919) 460-5454.