Don’t Use Invisalign Clear Aligners if You Do This

 Article by Remarkable Smiles

Invisalign clear aligners are a popular choice among many people who need braces for their nearly invisible appearance and ease of removal. They are famous for being an ideal alternative to traditional braces for people who are self-conscious about the appearance of metal braces. Invisalign may seem like a no-brainer for some people, but there is a group of people who should think twice before committing to an Invisalign treatment.

If you suffer from severe teeth grinding, otherwise known as bruxism, your Invisalign clear aligners may be damaged by the intense pressure from your teeth and jaw. Patients are required to wear Invisalign clear aligners for 20 to 22 hours, and this includes sleeping time. Since severe bruxism can happen either in the day or at night, people are at risk of clear aligner damage and temporomandibular joint dysfunction when grinding teeth.

Dentists often treat bruxism using mouthguards, which can protect your teeth and jaw from damage during grinding. However, the requirement to wear Invisalign clear aligners almost 24/7 makes it impossible to wear a mouthguard for more than 2 hours, making it impractical to wear one while sleeping or doing daily activities.

Instead of clear aligners, people with bruxism should opt for traditional braces instead. Manufacturers have released sleep mouthguards and athletic mouthguards for individuals with braces, making it possible to treat bruxism without impeding your orthodontic treatment. Be sure to ask your dentist or orthodontist about mouthguard options if you suffer both from tooth misalignment and bruxism.

About Remarkable Smiles

Remarkable Smiles Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics is home to Dr. Mark Rashidi, an orthodontist in Mission Viejo committed to providing friendly, high-quality service to clients looking for an orthodontist in Laguna Hills, Irvine, Lake Forest, or elsewhere in Orange County.