I Grind My Teeth — Can I Still Get Invisalign?

Dental misalignment can have an adverse effect on both your oral health and your confidence. If you have crooked teeth, you may want to get Invisalign clear aligners to straighten them. But what if you regularly grind and clench your teeth? Will that affect your candidacy for Invisalign? This blog post explains some key points that can help you to have realistic expectations.

Teeth Grinding and Candidacy for Invisalign

Your dentist will evaluate several factors in order to determine if Invisalign is suitable for you, including the degree of your dental misalignment, your habits, and more. Bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching) should also be taken into account. The good news is that bruxism is not an automatic contraindication for Invisalign. Many people with this condition can get clear aligners.

However, in some cases, treatment for bruxism can interfere with Invisalign. For example, if you need to wear a special mouthguard at night to prevent grinding and clenching, you cannot wear it at the same time as Invisalign. Since Invisalign is most effective when it is worn for 20 – 22 hours each day, the use of your bruxism nightguard might mean that braces would be a better orthodontic option than Invisalign.

How Does Teeth Grinding Affect Invisalign Aligners?

Invisalign aligner trays are composed of a patented type of plastic known as SmartTrack. It is strong, durable, and flexible. Of course, it is not invincible. It will wear out more quickly if you grind and clench your teeth. Fortunately, since you will switch aligners every 1 – 2 weeks, it is unlikely that your Invisalign will become so badly damaged that it is rendered unusable before you can move forward with your next set of aligners.

If you do end up causing serious damage to one of your aligners, call your dentist. They may be able to order a replacement for you.

Can Invisalign Reduce Teeth Grinding?

There are a couple of ways in which Invisalign may help to reduce bruxism:

• If you often grind your teeth while you are awake, your aligners might make you more aware of what you are doing. Then, you can make a conscious effort to stop.
• In many cases, dental misalignment causes or worsens teeth grinding. As your teeth move toward their ideal positions, you might find that you are less likely to engage in bruxism.

Teeth grinding is not good for clear aligners, but it might not prevent you from straightening your teeth with Invisalign. Talk to your dentist to learn more about your treatment options.

Meet the Practice

As a certified Invisalign Platinum Plus Provider, our team at Landmark Dental Studio has already helped many patients to straighten their teeth with clear aligners. We have taken on a range of cases, including those that involve bruxism. If you would like to learn more about how we may be able to serve you, get in touch with our Greenwood Village office at 303-773-8013.