Not everyone is a candidate for clear aligners. So, if you are considering them for teeth straightening, you may be wondering if there are factors that could disqualify you.
Many people who grind their teeth, a condition known as bruxism, wonder if they can still benefit from clear aligner therapy. The good news is that, in most cases, teeth grinding doesn’t disqualify you from getting clear aligners.
What is Teeth Grinding?
Teeth grinding is a common problem that affects millions of people. It can occur during the day or night and is often associated with stress, anxiety, or sleep disorders. Over time, chronic teeth grinding can lead to a variety of dental issues, including:
- Worn down, chipped, or cracked teeth
- Jaw pain and temporomandibular joint (TMJ or TMD) disorders
- Headaches and facial pain
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Damaged dental restorations
These issues can not only impact your oral health but also affect your eligibility for certain dental treatments, such as clear aligners.
What Are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are a much-loved popular alternative to traditional metal braces for straightening teeth. They use a series of custom-made, clear plastic trays to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. Many people prefer clear aligners because they are discreet, comfortable, and removable for eating and cleaning.
Concerns With Clear Aligners and Tooth Grinding
So, can you get clear aligners if you grind your teeth? In most cases, yes. However, there are a few factors to consider.
Severity of Teeth Grinding
If your teeth grinding is severe and has already caused significant damage to your teeth, your dentist may recommend addressing your bruxism or any dental issues that were caused by tooth grinding before starting clear aligner treatment.
Nighttime Teeth Grinding
Since most people grind their teeth at night, nighttime tooth grinding is a common concern. If you already wear a night guard, you will not be able to wear it during your clear aligner treatment since you must wear your aligners for 23 hours each day to maximize their effectiveness.
The good news is that wearing your clear aligners during sleep will also help protect your teeth from the effects of bruxism. The aligner trays act as a barrier, like your night guard, preventing your teeth from grinding directly against each other. After your treatment is complete, you may need to have a new custom night guard fabricated to fit your new, straighter smile.
Will Tooth Grinding Impact My Aligner Trays?
While eventually the integrity of the trays can be compromised by frequent grinding, SureSmile clear aligners are made of strong materials and can withstand a certain amount of wear and tear. Also, aligners are switched out for new trays every two weeks, so grinding should not affect their effectiveness.
Addressing Teeth Grinding During Clear Aligner Treatment
If you’re undergoing clear aligner treatment and continue to grind your teeth, there are several steps you can take to minimize the impact on your treatment.
- Wear your aligners consistently: Wearing your aligners for the recommended 23 hours per day not only keeps your treatment on track but also provides protection against teeth grinding.
- Practice stress-reduction techniques: Since stress is a common trigger for teeth grinding, finding ways to manage stress, such as through exercise, meditation, or therapy, can help reduce the frequency and intensity of bruxism.
- Maintain regular dental check-ups: During your clear aligner treatment, keep up with your regular dental and orthodontic check-ups so your providers can monitor your progress and address any issues related to teeth grinding.
Are You Ready for a Straighter Smile?
If you’re considering clear aligners, don’t let teeth grinding hold you back. Schedule a consultation with our experienced team today to learn about all of your orthodontic treatment options.
