Is It Bad to Bite Down on Invisalign?
Many Invisalign patients ask: is it harmful to bite or clench on aligners? The answer is yes. Applying pressure to your trays through biting or clenching can damage them, interrupt tooth movement, and even lead to discomfort in your jaw. These actions can also extend your overall treatment time and increase your cost if replacements are needed.
Stephen Forrest, DDS, of Des Moines Cosmetic Dentistry Center explains that Invisalign aligners are not designed to withstand strong force. “We want the aligners to do the work gradually,” Dr. Forrest says. “When you bite down on them, you’re working against that plan.”
Below, we’ll cover why this habit can cause trouble, how to avoid it, and what to do if your trays are damaged.
What Happens When You Bite on Your Aligners
Biting on Invisalign trays may feel like you’re helping them seat correctly, but it often causes more harm than good. Here’s what can happen:
Physical Damage to the Aligners
Your aligners are made from SmartTrack material, which is strong but not meant to be chewed. Biting creates pressure points that can lead to cracks, chips, or warping. Damaged aligners do not fit well and cannot move your teeth properly.
Delayed Tooth Movement
Each aligner is shaped to apply controlled pressure on specific teeth. When you bite down, you may cause uneven pressure. This can throw your treatment off track and lead to poor alignment or slower progress.
Jaw Discomfort or TMJ Irritation
Excessive clenching while wearing aligners can cause strain on the jaw joint. Patients who grind or bite down repeatedly may notice soreness, headaches, or clicking in the jaw.
Gum and Soft Tissue Irritation
If your aligners crack or shift shape, sharp edges may form. These can rub against the inside of your lips or gums, causing cuts or sore spots.
Safer Alternatives to Biting: Use Invisalign Chewies
To help your aligners fit securely, we recommend using Invisalign chewies. These are soft, spongy cylinders made from a safe plastic material.
To use chewies:
- Place one between your teeth where the aligners feel loose.
- Gently bite and hold for a few seconds.
- Move it around your mouth to help all areas seat properly.
- Repeat for 3 to 5 minutes as needed.
Using chewies gives you the benefit of a better fit without the risks that come from biting on the aligners directly.
Signs You’re Biting Too Hard on Your Aligners
Pay attention to the following signs:
- Small cracks or stress lines in the aligner
- A tray that no longer fits snugly
- Jaw soreness, especially in the morning
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Clicking or pain in your jaw joint
If you notice any of these, stop biting immediately and contact your provider.
Best Practices to Keep Your Aligners Safe
Following these tips will help prevent damage and keep your treatment on track:
- Remove Trays Before Eating or Drinking
Always remove aligners before eating. Food and hot drinks can stain or warp the trays. Drinking with aligners in also increases your risk of cavities. - Store Aligners in a Case
Use the storage case provided when your aligners are out. Don’t wrap them in a napkin or leave them loose, they’re easy to lose or damage. - Clean With Gentle Products
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear soap to clean your trays. Avoid toothpaste or hot water. You can also use Invisalign cleaning crystals or non-alcoholic mouthwash for soaking. - Wear Them 20 to 22 Hours Daily
Limit removal time to meals and brushing. The more consistently you wear your aligners, the better your results will be.
What to Do if an Aligner Is Damaged
If you bite through your aligner or notice cracks:
- Stop wearing the damaged tray.
- Contact our office.
- We may recommend wearing your previous set or moving ahead early.
- A replacement may be ordered if needed.
Never try to repair trays with glue or tape, as this could lead to poor fit and oral health risks.
FAQ: Biting Down on Invisalign and Related Concerns
Can I chew gum with my aligners in?
No. Gum can stick to the trays and cause them to warp or break.
Is jaw pain normal with Invisalign?
Mild discomfort is common in the first few days of each new tray, but ongoing pain may suggest jaw strain or poor aligner fit. Contact us if this occurs.
How do I know if my aligners are seated correctly?
They should snap into place without gaps along your teeth. Use chewies if they feel loose. If gaps remain, schedule a check-up.
Can I drink coffee with my aligners?
No. Hot coffee can warp the trays, and dark beverages can stain them. Remove aligners before drinking anything except water.
Trusted Invisalign Providers
At Des Moines Cosmetic Dentistry Center, we help patients throughout the Des Moines area achieve straighter smiles using Invisalign. Dr. Forrest and his team are available to guide you through the entire treatment process, from your first scan to your final result.
If you have concerns about aligner fit, biting, or treatment progress, we encourage you to call our office today.
