You’ve long been bothered by crooked teeth, so naturally, clear aligners sound like an attractive option for straightening them without having to rely on metal brackets and wires. However, you’re worried because you’re aware that you sometimes unconsciously grind your teeth. Will this habit prevent you from being considered a viable candidate for clear aligners? Here are the facts.
How Do Clear Aligners Work?
As part of your treatment, a series of aligners made out of a clear plastic will be designed for your unique mouth. Each aligner will help move the teeth a little bit, gradually guiding them to better positions. You will wear each aligner for about two weeks before moving on to the next one in the series. To keep the treatment on track, you will be required to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day, removing them only to eat or perform your oral hygiene routine.
Are Clear Aligners Still an Option for People Who Grind Their Teeth?
In most cases, the answer is yes; you can often still get clear aligners even if you grind your teeth. In fact, the aligners can provide some level of protection against grinding, acting as barriers between the upper and lower rows of teeth.
It is true that repeated clenching and grinding can wear down your aligners faster than normal. Fortunately, since you generally only wear each aligner for about two weeks, this typically isn’t a major issue. And in the event that an aligner does become worn out before you’re done with it, you can simply have it replaced.
It’s worth noting that misaligned teeth are often a contributing factor for teeth grinding. Therefore, your clear aligner treatment could ultimately help address the underlying cause of the problem and reduce your symptoms.
Are Clear Aligners Right for You?
This is a question that your dentist can only answer after carefully considering your unique situation. In addition to accounting for teeth grinding and any other oral health conditions, they will also need to consider the severity of your orthodontic issues. Clear aligners typically work best for mild to moderate cases of crowded teeth and unevenly spaced teeth. They can also be used to correct a variety of bite issues.
You can find out whether clear aligners are truly the best choice for you by scheduling a consultation with your dentist. Don’t be afraid to take your first step toward the straighter, healthier smile that you deserve.
About the Author
Dr. Shefat Rabbi graduated from the University of New England’s College of Dental Medicine. At One Dental New Jersey in Edison, he has been helping local families improve the health of their smiles via state-of-the-art dental care. He offers Invisalign and ClearCorrect clear aligners as smile-straightening solutions. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Rabbi, visit his website or call (908) 409-0881.