It’s currently estimated that upwards of 30% of people grind or clench their teeth at night (a condition known as “bruxism”). If you are one of them, then you may be wondering if you can still get Invisalign, especially if even your nightguard has a hard time standing up to the constant pressure. To find out, read on!
So, Can You Get Invisalign If You Grind Your Teeth?
Possibly! The best way to find out is by scheduling a consultation with your orthodontist. In addition to learning more about your dental needs and smile goals, they will ask you a few questions related to bruxism, including if you wear a nightguard or splint.
This is crucial because – although each Invisalign treatment is unique – there are some aspects that are universal, including the 20-22 hour-a-day wear time. If you have a nightguard or splint, then it’s difficult (if not impossible) to meet that goal. The good news is that doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t have a straight smile. At your consultation, your orthodontist will determine if another teeth-straightening treatment, like traditional braces, is better suited.
Will Teeth Grinding/Clenching Break My Aligners?
Another concern patients often have is that the constant pressure will cause their aligners to chip or crack. However, this usually isn’t a problem. Although the aligners are certainly much thinner than traditional nightguards, they are usually only worn for 1-2 weeks at a time. So, there’s a good chance that you won’t run into any trouble throughout your teeth-straightening journey.
What Should I Do If One of My Aligners Breaks?
If one of your aligners breaks, that’s okay – your orthodontist is just a phone call away! Once they know more about the extent of the damage and where you are in the treatment process, they can determine what the next best steps are. For some, it’s continuing to wear their aligners with the utmost care. For others, it’s moving onto the next set in the series a bit earlier than anticipated.
Important note: Do NOT use superglue to try and repair your aligners! Not only are adhesives like this not meant for damp environments, but they also contain toxins that are not safe to ingest.
About the Practice
With a wide range of services available – from traditional braces to Invisalign – our team at Super Braces of Lawrence can help patients no matter what their dental needs and smile goals are. Not only that, but we can fully tailor their treatment plan, ensuring they have a gorgeous smile, pristine oral health, and an aligned bite by the end of their time with braces. If you have any questions for us about orthodontic treatment, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with us via our website or by phone at (978) 794-0000.