Can I get Invisalign if I grind my teeth?

Has a partner or friend recently told you that you grind your teeth at night? Or maybe you know you‘re guilty of grinding your teeth, you may be wondering how to stop and what’s behind your urge to grind teeth.

There are a few different causes as to why you may be clenching or grinding your teeth (otherwise known as bruxism). So let’s explore them to see if Invisalign treatment could help you with your bruxism.

Here’s everything you need to know about teeth grinding and Invisalign:

What is bruxism?

‘Bruxism’ is the term used to describe grinding or clenching teeth subconsciously. This may occur during the day, during sleep, or day and night.

It’s estimated up to 30% of people grind or clench their teeth. Pinpointing the exact cause of bruxism can be difficult, as there are a number of factors that may be at play. 

Potential causes of bruxism include:

• Misalignment in the teeth and/or jaw bones
• Dehydration
• Caffeine consumption
• Stress due to changes in the environment or within the family 
• Medical conditions, like cerebral palsy
• Certain types of medications, specifically antipsychotics and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors

How does Invisalign help with teeth grinding?

When your teeth or jaws are not in healthy alignment, more than the beauty of your smile is affected. 

A bad bite can prevent the proper function of your jaws, throwing off the perfect harmony that your jaw muscles and joints work in. That’s why those with bruxism will often have a sore jaw or earaches. And enough teeth grinding can even cause TMJ-D (temporomandibular joint disorder). 

So can Invisalign stop teeth grinding?  

Yes, Invisalign® can help reduce or eliminate bruxism symptoms! The main focus of orthodontics is the correction of malocclusions, aka fixing bad bites (NCRDSCB). So Invisalign can help with teeth grinding by treating it at the source! 

At your first visit with us, our team will take x-rays, diagnostic photos, and take a digital impression of your smile. Then Dr. Matsumoto will perform a visual exam of your teeth and bite, present your personalized treatment plan to you, and discuss your treatment options. 

We will always recommend Invisalign treatment for our bruxism patients as the patented material of these aligners can protect your teeth from excessive wear, tear, and bruxism bite forces. So not only are you saving your teeth from further damage, but you’re also straightening your teeth discreetly!

Why am I grinding my teeth with Invisalign?

First, orthodontic devices do NOT cause teeth grinding. But it can be easy for those in treatment to assume so as you may find yourself grinding your teeth more in the first few weeks of orthodontic treatment. This is normal with bruxism patients as tooth movement begins and your jaw bones adapt to the forces being exerted on them. 

Stop teeth clenching with Invisalign treatment!

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions.

If you’re looking for relief from your bruxism tendencies, we’re here to help. When you visit our orthodontist office in Porters Neck at Wilmington, NC,  Dr. Matsumoto will listen to your needs, assess your condition and help guide you down the right treatment path.

Ready to receive your free consultation and exam? Request yours today!