You may have noticed that most people who get orthodontic treatment need to wear braces or Invisalign aligners on both their top and bottom teeth. That might make you wonder: If your bottom teeth are already straight and seemingly healthy, can you get Invisalign only for your top teeth? The idea may appeal to you, since it seems like it would be a more convenient and may be even less expensive option. However, the decision of whether to get single arch treatment is not always simple or straightforward. This blog post explores what you should know.
Situations in Which Treating Only Your Top Teeth May Work
In some situations, treating just one dental arch with Invisalign may be a viable option. For example, if your lower teeth are well-aligned and are not causing any problems with your bite, your care provider might determine that treating only your top teeth would be acceptable.
This approach is often available for people who are only seeking minor cosmetic improvements for their smile. For example, you might want to close a small gap between your top teeth or straighten some slight crookedness.
Potential Drawbacks of Single Arch Treatment
While single arch Invisalign treatment may sound appealing, it is important to remember that, for most people, it is not an ideal route. That is because adjusting your upper teeth without doing the same for your lower teeth may cause your bite to become misaligned.
In turn, a misaligned bite can lead to jaw pain, difficulty chewing, uneven wear and tear on your teeth, and a heightened risk of TMJ disorder (TMD). These complications often completely negate any potential convenience or financial savings that could be derived from single-arch orthodontic treatment.
The Importance of a Professional Evaluation
Before you set your mind or heart on single arch treatment, attend a consultation with a local Invisalign provider. They will evaluate the positioning of your teeth and provide an honest expert opinion on the most effective path for your smile. They can answer your questions about the pros and cons of single arch treatment and help you make a well-informed decision. Most often, double arch treatment is the better way to go.
You might be able to benefit from single arch Invisalign treatment — or you might not. A qualified expert can help you figure out which is best for your unique case.
Meet the Practice
At All Dental, our team is proud to serve families throughout the Westborough area. We offer traditional braces, Invisalign clear aligners, and many other treatments that have the potential to improve the health and appearance of your smile. To learn more about us or to request a consultation, get in touch with our office at 508-217-7265.