Many teens and adults put off getting orthodontic treatment because they aren’t looking forward to sporting a mouthful of metal brackets and wires. The good news is that Invisalign can help you achieve a straighter smile with clear, plastic aligners. The treatment works by slowly shifting your teeth to their frightful locations by completing a series of aligners. They can help many patients achieve the goals that they have for their smiles, but what if you grind your teeth? Can you still get Invisalign? Here’s what you should know.
Can You Get Invisalign If You Grind Your Teeth?
Invisalign aligners are made from flexible plastic, so people who grind their teeth may worry if they are a candidate for treatment. The good news is that most people who grind their teeth can still get Invisalign. There is a chance that your aligners will wear down quickly, but this isn’t usually a big deal. Patients are usually given a set of aligners to wear for two eeks. Then, it’s time to move onto their next set. Your aligners can even act as a barrier for grinding, therefore preventing damage to your teeth.
Does Invisalign Affect Teeth Grinding?
Invisalign can help to improve teeth grinding. When your teeth aren’t positioned properly, your bite becomes misaligned. This can create uneven surfaces throughout your mouth. Teeth that don’t fit together as they should can cause problems for the temporomandibular joint, causing you to involuntarily grind your teeth. By working toward a more aligned smile, you can reduce your grinding and related symptoms, like jaw pain and headaches.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
When you decide whether Invisalign is an ideal option, there are various factors to consider. Invisalign can correct crooked, gapped, crowded, and misaligned teeth on the upper and lower arches. However, some bite problems may be too severe to treat, so traditional braces are necessary to make the needed changes.
Age is also a factor that your dentist considers. The jaw and teeth are constantly changing and growing from childhood to your teenage years. Patients also need to wear their aligners for at least 20 hours per day to achieve the desired results. While it can work for responsible teens, parents may want to consider braces for their younger children because they are fixed to the teeth, making them lower maintenance. Once the patient is committed to the Invisalign process, most teens and adults are good candidates for Invisalign.
Teeth grinding shouldn’t get in the way of achieving a straighter smile. During your consultation, you will find out if Invisalign is the best option to meet your needs.
About the Author
Dr. Caleb Goodman earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from Midwestern University. Today, he is a proud member of the Arizona Dental Association and is the dentist for the Cincinnati Reds & Cleveland Guardians baseball teams. To learn more about Invisalign or to schedule an appointment at his office in Goodyear, visit his website or call (623) 925-8822.