Bite misalignment, crowded and gapped teeth, and other orthodontic issues can keep you from having the aligned, healthy smile that you want. These problems can also lead to secondary conditions like bruxism, or teeth grinding, that may not seem compatible with clear aligner orthodontic treatments like ClearCorrect. So, where do you go from here? You may be surprised to learn that teeth grinding and clear aligners can actually be compatible.
What is Bruxism & Why Does It Occur?
Teeth grinding, which you’ll likely hear referred to as “bruxism” by your dentist, is a common condition that impacts patients of all ages. It involves the regular grinding and clenching of the teeth while you’re sleeping, or unconsciously throughout the day. It can be caused by a variety of underlying dental and health conditions, like bite misalignment and stress. When left unaddressed, it can also lead to the development of other oral conditions, like TMJ disorder, which results in jaw pain, lockjaw, and other jaw-related discomfort.
The ClearCorrect Orthodontic Process
ClearCorrect is an orthodontic treatment that uses clear, plastic trays that are custom-fitted for your individual smile to help shift teeth into their ideal alignment. Although the trays are removable, allowing you to eat the foods you want and easily brush and floss your teeth, they must be worn for between 20 and 22 hours every day to ensure you stay on track with your treatment timeline. Because of this, you may find that you’re grinding your teeth with your aligners in your mouth.
Can You Get Clear Aligners if You Grind Your Teeth?
Your ClearCorrect trays will be crafted from a durable FDA-approved plastic that will be able to withstand more mild cases of teeth grinding. However, if you have a severe case of bruxism that makes you worry about your aligners becoming damaged, or you wear a nightguard or splint, clear orthodontic aligners may not be the best option for you. The best way to find out is to schedule a consultation with your dentist to get a professional opinion on the situation.
Don’t get down on yourself just yet! In cases where your bruxism isn’t as severe, your dentist may be able to simply order you a replacement set of aligners if they become damaged during your treatment. And, if your dentist determines that ClearCorrect isn’t the best option for you, it doesn’t mean that your smile can never be straightened—they’ll likely refer you to an orthodontist for a specialty evaluation.
About the Practice
At AV Dental Associates of Jersey City, our dentists, Dr. Vahid and Dr. Yoo, are specially trained to provide clear aligner orthodontic treatment. ClearCorrect is a leading brand and manufacturer of customized orthodontic trays that help fix bite misalignment, crowding, and other concerns, allowing patients to enjoy a discreet and more comfortable experience. For questions or to learn more, visit our website or call 201-484-7759.
