Many older teens and adults put off orthodontic treatment because they don’t want to compromise their appearance with metal brackets and wires. Fortunately, Invisalign can help you achieve a straighter smile with clear, plastic aligners. This treatment works by slowly shifting your teeth to their rightful locations. They can help various people meet their smile goals. But what if you grind your teeth? Is Invisalign still an option? Here’s what you should know.
Is Invisalign an Option If You Grind Your Teeth?
Invisalign aligners are crafted from flexible plastic, so patients who grind their teeth often worry that they won’t be a good 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 could wear down more quickly, but this isn’t usually a big deal. Patients are usually given a set of aligners to wear for only about two weeks. 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 your grinding. When your teeth aren’t in an ideal position, your bite becomes misaligned. This can create uneven surfaces throughout your mouth. Teeth that don’t together as they should can cause issues 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 multiple 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 significant factor. The jaw and teeth are constantly changing and growing from childhood to 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, patients may want to consider braces for their younger children because they are fixed to the teeth, making them lower maintenance. Once committed to Invisalign, most teens and adults are good candidates for Invisalign.
Teeth grinding won’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
At Pasadena Family Dentistry, Dr. Kimber Homes, Dr. Erica Revel, and Dr. Raymond Lowery work together to treat patients in the Pasadena community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. To learn more about Invisalign or to schedule a consultation, visit their website or call (713) 946-5171.