Everyone wants to show off a bright, white smile that makes them feel great. There are all sorts of different options to help patients work toward the smile of their dreams. Fortunately, you don’t need to opt for metal braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to slowly shift the teeth to their rightful locations, but what if you only want to correct one arch? Is this possible? Here’s what you should know.
Can I Get Invisalign on Just My Top Teeth?
While you can get Invisalign on just your top or bottom teeth, the situation is a little more complicated than that. This approach is called “Single-arch treatment” and involves using Invisalign on either the top or bottom teeth, but not simultaneously. This method still involves addressing both the top and bottom teeth before the treatment has finished. This is because the upper and lower teeth have a close relationship. If you change one, this is going to affect your bite. In the end, most patients require both rows to be adjusting to get proper results.
What Are the Risks Behind Single-Arch Treatment?
If you straighten just your top or bottom teeth, but not both of them, it can easily throw off your bite. This could leave you with various oral health issues, like jaw problems that result in head and neck pain. Uneven wearing can also occur, which can compromise your protective enamel, leading to sensitivity and other dental issues. When both arches are corrected at the same time, you don’t need to worry about the development of bite issues throughout your treatment.
Who Ca Consider Singe-Arch Treatment?
For the most part, single arch treatment is only suitable for those who have just a few crooked teeth or other minor alignment issues. Usually, this is completed to fix issues that are solely cosmetic. If you are dealing with a more complex orthodontic problem, like a crossbite or open bite, this most likely isn’t the right option for you. Instead, it is ideal for those with:
- Minor spaces
- Slightly crooked front teeth
- Relapse after previous orthodontic treatment
- A tooth that is tipped out of alignment.
While this treatment isn’t the best option for most, it might be right for you. Schedule a consultation with your dentist so they can examine your smile to determine what the best treatment plan is to meet your needs.
About the Author
Dr. Admasu Gizachew earned his dental doctorate from New York University. Since then, he has undergone state-of-the-art dental implant training at Rutgers University, completed multiple residencies, and trained other dentists in cosmetic and implant dentistry as a clinical director. He completes nearly 300 hours of continuing education per year. To learn more about Invisalign or to schedule an appointment at his Barnegat office, visit his website or call (609) 879-0036.