Can I Still Get Invisalign If I Grind My Teeth?

If you struggle with teeth grinding — also known as bruxism — you may be wondering whether you can still straighten your smile with Invisalign. Since grinding puts extra pressure on your teeth and jaw, it’s normal to question whether clear aligners can withstand the stress or even make your condition worse. The good news is that in most cases, patients who grind their teeth can still be great candidates for Invisalign — and in some ways, the treatment may actually help protect your smile.

Understanding Bruxism

Bruxism is a common condition where you unconsciously grind or clench your teeth, especially at night. Over time, this constant pressure can lead to enamel wear, tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, and even cracked teeth. Many people aren’t aware they grind their teeth until their dentist notices the signs or they start to experience discomfort in their jaw or face.

If you’ve been diagnosed with bruxism, it’s important to let your dentist know before starting Invisalign. They’ll evaluate how severe your grinding is and determine whether any adjustments need to be made to your treatment plan.

Invisalign and Teeth Grinding: Can They Work Together?

Invisalign aligners are made from a durable, flexible material called SmartTrack that’s designed to gently guide your teeth into their ideal positions. While they aren’t specifically built to stop teeth grinding, the aligners do cover your teeth completely — which provides a layer of protection against enamel wear during mild to moderate grinding.

In other words, your Invisalign trays can act as a temporary barrier between your upper and lower teeth, similar to a nightguard. However, if you grind your teeth very aggressively, the aligners may wear out faster than normal and need to be replaced more frequently. Your dentist can monitor your progress closely and make adjustments if needed to keep your treatment on track.

How Invisalign May Help Reduce Grinding

In some cases, Invisalign can actually help minimize grinding over time. Misaligned teeth can cause an uneven bite, which may contribute to bruxism by increasing stress on certain areas of your mouth. As Invisalign gradually corrects your alignment and bite, the pressure becomes more evenly distributed, reducing the urge to clench or grind.

Additionally, since Invisalign treatment involves wearing aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, many patients find that the trays act as a gentle reminder to relax their jaw muscles and avoid clenching.

Protecting Your Smile During and After Treatment

If you grind your teeth while wearing Invisalign, your dentist may recommend extra precautions, such as:

• Wearing your aligners consistently as directed to prevent damage to your enamel
• Avoiding caffeine or stress triggers that can worsen grinding
• Using a custom nightguard after Invisalign treatment is complete to protect your new smile

With the right care, bruxism doesn’t have to keep you from enjoying the benefits of Invisalign.

About the Practice

Dr. Christopher Capehart of Capehart Dentistry provides exceptional, family-friendly dental care to patients in Lewisville and the surrounding communities. Our skilled team offer a full range of services, including preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and orthodontic treatments like Invisalign. We’re committed to helping patients achieve healthier, more confident smiles with advanced technology and personalized care in a welcoming environment.

Call us at (972) 436-1325 or request an appointment online.