You are looking into clear aligner options to correct the position of your teeth. However, you are afraid that your tendency to grind your teeth might interfere with the treatment process. Is that the case?
Here's what you need to know.
What Is Teeth Grinding?
Teeth grinding or Bruxism (in medical terms) is a common condition that many people experience. It's, in fact, common both in children and adults. However, it's more likely for children to expedite it in the early years, but it usually starts to go away as they grow older.
Several reasons cause this condition in people, and one of them is having misaligned teeth.
Teeth grinding is also a result of being stressed. It usually happens at night and a lot of people do not realize they actually grind their teeth but they can experience a number of symptoms that indicate teeth grinding.
Signs that indicate you have Bruxism include:
- Tightness in the jaw, neck, and face
- Tooth pain
- Loose and/or fractured teeth
- Cracked teeth
- Sleep problems
Causes of teeth grinding include:
- Stress
- Age
- Medication
- Stimulating substances
- Genetics
- Other disorders
What Are Clear Aligners?
If you suffer from teeth misalignment, clear aligners can help you straighten your teeth. This orthodontic treatment is an alternative to the traditional metal braces, and wearing them is much less obvious.
Clear aligners are custom-made trays placed on the teeth. They are made to apply enough pressure and bring your teeth to the correct alignment.
These trays are changed approximately every two weeks to match the progress and process of the treatment.
Can You Wear Clear Aligners If You Grind Your Teeth?
Absolutely! The aligners will actually work as a barrier between the teeth and allow you to avoid the damage caused by bruxism.
These trays can wear off while grinding them, but since they already need to be changed periodically, this will not affect the treatment itself.
If the grinding is severe, it can cause more damage to the clear aligners. But considering how often these aligners are changed, you will get new ones before they stop being effective.
Teeth grinding can damage your aligners, but it is not something to be concerned about if you want to start your orthodontic treatment. And you can also discuss the issue with your dentist for any recommendations specific to your situation.
Also, nightguard and clear aligners are not compatible. And since the aligners work as protection, you would not need to wear a nightguard. After the treatment is completed, you can talk to your dentist about your options and wear one to keep protecting your teeth.
Since Bruxism can also be caused by misalignment, you might stop grinding your teeth after the treatment is over and your teeth are straight.
Are You Interested in Clear Aligners? Get in Touch!
At Urban Dental Studio, we want to offer our patients a great dental experience in a comfortable, relaxing, and unique setting.
Get in touch with us and schedule an appointment with Dr. Zaidi. Our list of services includes preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry.
.webp){kind=icon}
.webp)