Invisalign retainers are a tooth straightening alternative to traditional metal and wire braces, where clear and removable trays are placed over your teeth. It’s a wonderful way to realign your jaw and achieve a ‘perfect’ bite.
If you are considering Invisalign treatment, you may be someone who regularly suffers from headaches, a sore jaw, or tooth pain. It could be likely that you grind or clench your teeth (also called bruxism).
But, can an Invisalign retainer be a method to straighten your teeth and help to reduce these symptoms?
Side Effects of Teeth Grinding
Bruxism has many daily unwanted side effects, from cracked teeth to worn enamel and gum recession. Most people who grind their teeth are not always aware that they do it. It often happens during sleep or if you are under stress.
Other side effects can include:
- Facial pain
- Headaches
- Earaches
- Pain and stiffness in the jaw joint and muscles
- Disrupted sleep
- Worn-down teeth – leading to increased sensitivity
- Tooth loss
- Broken teeth or fillings
See your dentist immediately if your teeth are worn, damaged or sensitive. Emergency dental treatment may be recommended to avoid further problems like infection or dental abscesses.
Can You Wear Invisalign Retainers if You Grind Your Teeth?
Yes! People who grind their teeth can receive Invisalign treatment. However, you will need a full consultation with an Invisalign dentist to confirm whether Invisalign is the right option for you.
Since aligners are changed quite often; it’s unlikely that grinding will damage them severely. The Invisalign retainers can help to protect the tooth enamel from the grinding force, and the plastic material can absorb the pressure that is created from grinding. This helps to prevent damage to the tooth surface.
During the night, Invisalign retainers can work as a night guard for teeth grinders, to act as a protective safety barrier between your teeth, they may help you to be more aware of your habit, encouraging you to stop!
Throughout Invisalign treatment, patients must wear their aligners for around 20-22 hours a day, so talk to your orthodontist if you currently wear a nightguard or a splint so that they can decide the best option for you and your lifestyle.
How Can Invisalign Straighten Your Teeth?
To get the most out of your Invisalign and in some cases relieve some symptoms of teeth grinding, the aligners must be worn as instructed. Only remove them during meals and when you clean your teeth.
Benefits of Invisalign:
- Can protect your teeth from grinding
- Aligns your teeth correctly
- Adjusts your bite
- Minimize or eliminate jaw pain
- In some situations, it can reprogram muscles to avoid future teeth grinding
Invisalign retainers can help your jaw to align itself properly so that your jaw is permitted to open and close freely without any pain or discomfort. The stress from the joint will be relaxed, preventing any further irritation and inflammation. If you have any more questions about our services, look at our FAQ page.
Get Your Perfect Smile with Invisalign Southampton
Invisalign experts in Southampton can help you to achieve the perfect smile using one of the most invisible and comfortable retainers available in cosmetic dentistry. Our team of Invisalign dentists in Hampshire can discuss your orthodontic and teeth straightening needs!
So, are you ready for your smile transformation? Contact us on 02380 442626 and start your journey with us today!
