Invisalign has become the premier method of straightening teeth for patients who want to be treated discreetly. While many patients have heard the name before, few of them know about the exciting benefits of the system. Sure, it straightens teeth, but did you know that it can actually help patients who grind their teeth as well?
If you want to learn more about Invisalign and its many benefits for your smile, continue reading. You’ll see it’s much more than a set of portable braces.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign uses a set of clear plastic aligners to gradually shift your teeth into their desired positions. Each aligner is designed to move your teeth a certain amount so that the next stage can continue. Some patients only need six months to see their results while others could need the system for a year or more. It all depends on your unique smile profile and your goals.
Bruxism, What Is That?
Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching teeth. This often happens during sleep without the patient’s knowledge and can lead to multiple dental issues like:
- Worn Enamel
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Headaches
- Jaw Pain
Can I Use Invisalign if I Have Bruxism?
One of the concerns with teeth grinding is its potential to interrupt or affect orthodontic treatments. However, most patients who grind their teeth can still use the Invisalign. Even if you have a more extreme case of bruxism, the system could still work for you. However, the aligners may wear down faster than normal.
While this may seem like a big deal, it’s not. The aligners for each stage are typically only worn for two weeks at a time. This decreases the likelihood that any one set will wear down faster than you’d change it out anyway!
Can I Use Invisalign if I Wear a Night Guard?
One of the exceptions to Invisalign’s accessibility is night guards. If you wear an oral appliance to treat your bruxism, Invisalign may not be for you. This is because the aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day, even while you sleep.
So, is Invisalign right for you? Only you and your orthodontist can make that call. If you’re interested in the system, but don’t know if you meet the requirements, schedule an Invisalign consultation. Don’t delay, a straighter smile could be just over the horizon for you!
About the Practice
At Richardson Orthodontics, you’ll find a dedicated and passionate team of dental professionals with one goal: getting you smiling again. They have created a comfortable facility for a relaxing atmosphere and use state-of-the-art dental technology to make your treatment painless and effective. Call (972) 238-7101 to schedule an Invisalign consultation, or visit the website to discover other services they offer.