Can I Get Invisalign if I Grind My Teeth?

If you are tired of the inconveniences that come with dental misalignment, you have probably thought about getting Invisalign treatment to straighten your smile. However, if you grind your teeth, you might wonder if that will interfere with your candidacy for Invisalign. Will bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching) cause your aligners to wear down faster? This blog post discusses some important points that you should keep in mind.

Teeth Grinding and Candidacy for Invisalign

When determining whether Invisalign is right for you, your dentist will consider numerous factors, including the details of your misalignment, your personal circumstances, and more. Teeth grinding is just one thing they will take into account; it is just one part of a much bigger picture. Many people who struggle with bruxism can get Invisalign.

However, Invisalign might not be a good fit for you if your bruxism is severe enough that you have to wear a special mouthguard during sleep. Since you cannot wear a mouthguard and Invisalign aligners at the same time, your bruxism treatment would prevent you from wearing Invisalign for the required 20 – 22 hours each day. You might need to get braces instead.

How Does Teeth Grinding Affect Invisalign Aligners?

Invisalign aligners are constructed of a durable type of plastic known as SmartTrack. Although it is very tough, it will wear out more quickly if it is frequently exposed to the pressures of bruxism. The good news is that you will switch to new aligners every 1 – 2 weeks. Therefore, it is unlikely that your Invisalign will become unusable before you move forward to the next step of your treatment.

If you do accidentally end up damaging one of your aligners so it is no longer wearable, your dentist may be able to order a replacement for you.

Can Invisalign Reduce Teeth Grinding?

If you tend to grind and clench your teeth during the day, Invisalign aligners might help you to be more aware of the habit, which could make it easier for you to stop.

It is also worth noting that, in many cases, dental misalignment is a major contributing factor to teeth grinding and clenching. After you finish your orthodontic treatment, you might find that your bruxism is greatly reduced or even disappears altogether. In turn, you may be at a reduced risk for issues like broken teeth and premature wear and tear on your tooth enamel.

Bruxism might not disqualify you from getting Invisalign. Talk to your dentist to learn more about how you can straighten your teeth.

Meet the Practice

At Blue Coast Dental Group, we are proud to be home to a talented group of dentists and specialists. Invisalign is just one of the many services we offer. If you are struggling with dental misalignment or bruxism, we are ready to consult with you and advise you on your next steps. Contact our friendly staff at 310-424-3100.