Invisalign and Bruxism

Aug 19, 2009 Week 1 Day 3 (Aligner 1)

Invisalign and Bruxism

On the 3^rd day, I told my husband that it is like ‘good hurt’. I check for marks on my aligners for signs of bruxism (bruxism: The habitual and involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth, usually during sleep.). None. Interesting, maybe wearing aligners ‘cured’ me of my bruxism? However, I noticed that there is a distinct ‘line’ on both sides of my cheeks. So instead of grinding my teeth, I started to ‘grind’ the side of my cheeks!

I noticed that there are several articles online that claim that if you have bruxism, you will ‘grind’ through your invisalign aligners. I don’t know if it is their real experiences or their ‘speculation’. I’m a serious grinder and I have a custom-made month guard that has deep distinct grind marks to show! I actually don’t see why you will grind through your aligners as both your upper and lower molars will be covered by the relative smooth aligners. But I can see how it can happen if you are only wearing one aligner.

I went out to the public the first time with my aligners for my yoga class. I am so conscious of them that I kept my month shut when I smile. I keep thinking that people will notice the aligner. I smile less! It’s really silly, I really have to get use to it. The only thing is the two small ‘bubble’ on my upper jaw. That makes me so conscious! I just have to get over it…

Tips #3: Do not forget to smile! (That’s why you got invisalign instead of the traditional metal braces!) And for people with bruxism, if you are wearing two aligners at the same time, you will not grind through the aligners. (Confirm with your dentist.)

Update: I’m into my 4th aligners, and did not find even the smallest ‘grinding marks’ on the aligners. I guess it makes sense as it might be too ‘slippery’ to grind on smooth surfaces!

Copyright 2009 by Farting Camel

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