If you want to straighten your smile, but you grind your teeth you might wonder whether Invisalign is a good option for you. After all, bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching) puts extra pressure on your teeth and jaw, couldn’t it break your aligners? The answer might surprise you! Keep reading to learn how Invisalign and bruxism interact and whether you can still achieve a perfectly straight smile.
Can You Get Invisalign If You Grind Your Teeth?
Actually, yes! Many people with bruxism successfully use Invisalign all the time. In fact, in some cases, the aligners can help protect your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding. Since they cover and cushion your teeth, they can sometimes prevent direct enamel wear.
However, it all depends on your case. Severe grinding can cause aligners to wear down or crack more quickly than normal. So, if you have a history of heavy bruxism, your dentist may recommend addendums to your treatment plan to help you stay on track.
Does Invisalign Help with Teeth Grinding?
A misaligned bite can put extra stress on certain teeth, which can contribute to your grinding habit. Depending on your specific case, Invisalign may reduce teeth grinding by realigning your smile so that these tooth-sensitive triggers are lessened or eliminated. So, as you progress with your Invisalign treatment, you may naturally see a decrease in your bruxism symptoms.
Tips For Managing Bruxism During Invisalign Treatment
While it’s entirely possible to undergo clear aligner treatment with bruxism, managing your condition is critical for success. Here are some helpful tips:
- Stress Management: Beyond misaligned teeth, stress is a common trigger for bruxism. Practicing activities like meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can help reduce the frequency or severity of grinding.
- Regular Checkups: Keep up with regular dental appointments to monitor the condition of your aligners and ensure your treatment is on track. This is especially important with a grinding habit because your aligners can wear out faster than normal.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help reduce dry mouth, which can make bruxism worse.
- Avoid Stimulants: Limit the intake of caffeine and alcohol, as these can increase the likelihood of teeth grinding, especially before bedtime.
Bruxism doesn’t automatically disqualify you from Invisalign, but it does mean you’ll need to take extra care during treatment. The best way to know if clear aligners are right for you is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. They’ll assess your bite, discuss your habits, and help you choose the best path to a healthy, straightened smile!
About the Author
Dr. Bryan Friedland is a talented dentist and certified Invisalign provider with over a decade of experience straightening smiles. He earned his dental doctorate from Nova Southeastern University before undergoing a year-long residency at Long Island Jewish Hospital. Since then, he has continued to build his skills through hours of advanced training, always striving for excellence. Call (954) 450-6640 to schedule an appointment at Friedland Family Dentistry of Pembroke Pines or visit our website to explore other services.