Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common issue that affects millions of people. Many don’t even realize they grind their teeth until they start to notice symptoms like jaw soreness, frequent headaches, or worn-down enamel. If left untreated, bruxism can lead to long-term dental problems, including cracked teeth, sensitivity, and even tooth loss.
While traditional treatment often involves wearing a night guard, there’s another powerful solution that many patients don’t realize can help: clear aligners. Beyond straightening your smile, clear aligners can provide unique benefits for patients who grind their teeth.
1. A Protective Barrier
Just like a night guard, clear aligners create a thin protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth. This means that instead of tooth enamel wearing down from grinding, the aligner material takes the impact. Over time, this can help preserve your natural teeth and prevent costly restorative dental work.
2. Improved Bite Alignment
One of the main causes of teeth grinding is a misaligned bite. When teeth don’t fit together properly, the jaw compensates, which can trigger grinding or clenching. Clear aligner therapy gradually shifts teeth into proper alignment, helping to reduce the root cause of bruxism for many patients.
3. Reduced Jaw Discomfort
Grinding often leads to jaw tension, muscle fatigue, and even TMJ (temporomandibular joint) discomfort. As aligners improve your bite and reduce grinding pressure, many patients experience relief from these painful symptoms.
4. Convenience and Comfort
Clear aligners are comfortable, discreet, and removable, making them an easy choice for patients concerned about the look and feel of traditional braces. For those already struggling with jaw discomfort, aligners provide a smooth and gentle treatment option without irritating metal brackets or wires.
5. Long-Term Protection
By addressing both the symptoms (enamel wear, discomfort) and the cause (bite misalignment), clear aligners offer patients who grind their teeth a long-term path toward better oral health and a healthier smile.
The Bottom Line
If you grind your teeth, clear aligners may be more than just a cosmetic solution—they can help protect your smile, ease discomfort, and correct underlying bite issues that contribute to grinding in the first place.
At LADD Dental Group, we’re proud to offer SureSmile® Clear Aligners, a comfortable and effective treatment option designed to give you a straighter, healthier smile—while helping protect your teeth from the effects of grinding.
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