If you grind your teeth, either consciously during the day or unconsciously at night, you’re not alone. This is a pretty common habit, though that doesn’t make it less annoying! Teeth grinding can cause uncomfortable aches and, because of the pressure exerted on your teeth, lead to premature wear. With all this in mind, could you really receive an Invisalign treatment?
Fortunately, the answer is yes! Keep reading to learn why Invisalign is actually perfect for teeth grinding.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Let’s review some key details about Invisalign. When you start your treatment, you’ll be provided a set of clear plastic trays that resemble a thin mouthguard. These trays are designed to gradually push crooked teeth into straighter alignments, and they do this by strategically applying pressure.
Faster Wear – No Problem
Since the trays are a thin plastic, you might be worried about how teeth grinding tends to wear things out faster. You likely won’t break your trays because of this habit, but it’s true they may not last as long.
Here’s where the Invisalign process works to your advantage! In order to gradually move your teeth, it’s necessary to bump up to a tighter set of trays roughly every two weeks. By the time you’ve worn down your aligners, you’ll probably be ready to replace them with your advancement set anyway. Plus, if you do happen to need a replacement sooner than that, your dentist can always order one for you.
Invisalign Could Help Teeth Grinding
It would actually benefit your teeth to wear an appliance like Invisalign. Dental trays essentially put up a barrier between your teeth, pillowing the force that would otherwise grind them down. You’ll be expected to wear Invisalign for 22 hours per day, which translates to 22 hours of protection for your pearly whites!
Keep in mind, though, that if you already wear a nightguard or similar appliance for your teeth grinding, you may have to work out a few extra details with your dentist.
Talk to Your Dentist for Smooth Treatment
Speaking of your dentist, it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation with them before starting an Invisalign treatment. They’ll be able to take a closer, more professional look at your mouth to determine whether Invisalign is a good fit for you and your teeth. If not, they’ll be able to recommend alternatives or prior treatments that’ll help you achieve your dream smile. Trust your dentist to look out for your oral health!
About the Practice
Dr. Peter Hammes and Dr. Rashmi Kakar proudly serve Chicago and the surrounding areas. Each dentist has their own unique skills and experiences, allowing them to offer a comprehensive list of services under one roof. Dr. Kakar, for example, is Invisalign certified. You can trust her and Dr. Hammes to take your teeth grinding into account and provide you with a quality Invisalign treatment plan! To contact their office, call 312-766-5412.