You might shy away from getting traditional metal braces because you dislike the idea of having a mouth full of brackets and wires. But what about a mouth full of clear aligners? Although Invisalign trays are discreet, you may still wonder if full-mouth treatment is really necessary. If your bottom teeth already appear to be well-aligned, it is natural to be curious about whether you could get Invisalign only for your top teeth. This blog post explains what you should know.
When Is Single-Arch Treatment Possible?
You may qualify for Invisalign on only your top teeth if your lower teeth have little to no crowding or spacing issues and your bite is well-aligned. For example, it might be a good option for you if all you want to do is make some minor cosmetic adjustments to your upper front teeth.
Some advantages of single-arch treatment include:
- It can be more convenient than double-arch treatment.
- It may cost less than full-mouth Invisalign.
- It might have a shorter overall treatment timeline.
Why Double-Arch Treatment Is Usually Better
There are important limitations to single-arch Invisalign. If your top and bottom teeth do not fit together properly, moving only the upper teeth can worsen your bite or even create completely new problems. Most dental professionals will not recommend single-arch treatment if you have moderate or severe misalignment, since this could affect your overall oral health.
In most cases, aligning both arches at the same time produces a more stable and healthy bite. When both the upper and lower teeth move together, you reduce the risk of developing issues such as uneven wear, jaw discomfort, or shifting of the teeth over time. Double-arch Invisalign also helps your teeth fit together more harmoniously, which improves both their function and appearance.
Talk to Your Dentist to Learn About Treatment Options
Before you make any decisions about Invisalign, schedule a consultation with your dentist. Your provider will evaluate your bite, dental alignment, and oral health, then recommend a personalized treatment plan suited to your needs. Professional advice is crucial because every patient’s situation is unique and requires careful consideration.
Your dentist can discuss the pros and cons of single-arch versus double-arch treatment, helping you understand what will work best for your smile and long-term dental health.
Single-arch Invisalign is possible for select cases, but most patients benefit more from full-mouth treatment. Whichever course you take, be sure to follow your dentist’s recommendations so you can enjoy the best possible outcome.
Meet the Practice
At Torrington Dental Care, our team is pleased to provide a broad range of high-quality services, including Invisalign clear aligners, traditional braces, and more. If you are interested in straightening your top teeth or making more drastic corrections to your dental alignment, we are ready to consult with you. Contact our office at 860-259-4073.