Invisalign is one of the most popular and exciting orthodontic treatments around. These unique clear aligners offer patients, both young and old, the chance to straighten their teeth and achieve healthier, more beautiful smiles – all in a subtle and convenient manner. That said, if you’re curious about getting this treatment for your child, you might be wondering if they’re still eligible if they grind their teeth. In most cases, the answer is yes! Here’s what you need to know.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that’s comparatively new to traditional metal braces; rather than relying on metal brackets and wires that shift teeth, they carry out this task using a series of clear plastic aligners worn over the teeth. These aligners, also sometimes referred to as “trays,” are custom-made for each patient’s teeth, and thanks to their special material, they are both durable as well as totally transparent, meaning they aren’t nearly as obvious as metal braces.
This is one of the main draws of Invisalign, combined with the fact that the aligners are also removable whenever it’s time to eat or brush. However, patients normally must wear the aligners for around 22 hours each day in order for them to be effective.
Can Teeth Grinding Impact the Invisalign Process?
Teeth grinding, also known medically as “bruxism,” occurs when a patient grinds their teeth together or clenches their jaw. In some cases, this condition can cause damage to the enamel layer of the teeth, as well as place strain on nearby muscles and the jaw joints. For these reasons, it’s normal to suspect that bruxism might also impact the Invisalign process.
Simply put, while there is a chance it will wear down the aligners faster, you should know that it’s not as big of a deal as you might think, since a patient will be advancing to a new set of aligners every two weeks or so. Not to mention, the aligners themselves are made from durable, flexible plastic called SmartTrack – they can still withstand quite a bit of the wear that may occur from grinding.
Also note that in some specific cases, Invisalign may not be recommended due to teeth grinding. For example, if a patient is required to wear an appliance like a nightguard or splint due to teeth grinding, Invisalign may not be a suitable option, since this would impact the overall wear time.
In any case, you should consult with your child’s orthodontist if you’re unsure about their orthodontic options due to their teeth grinding. While Invisalign is normally unaffected by teeth grinding, you still want to be sure that your child is getting treatment perfectly suited for their needs!
About the Practice
Our team here at Simply Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics is excited to offer a wide range of orthodontic services for families in Nashua and the surrounding area. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up an appointment for your child, please visit us online or call us today for assistance! Telephone: (603) 880-5002.