Can I Get Invisalign on Only My Top Teeth?

Everyone wants to have a smile that makes them feel confident. Having misaligned or crooked teeth is something that many people feel self-conscious about. Fortunately, there are several teeth straightening options out there to help patients work towards the smile of their dreams, like Invisalign. There are numerous benefits of Invisalign over tradition braces, with the most obvious being that they are metal-free! But what if you are only worried about the alignment of your top teeth? Read on to learn if you can get Invisalign for just your top teeth.

Can I Get Invisalign on Only My Top Teeth?

Yes, it is possible for you to get Invisalign on just your top or bottom teeth, but the situation is a little bit more complex than just that. This approach is known as “single-arch treatment,” and it involves using Invisalign on either the top or bottom teeth, but not at the same time. This method still addresses both the top and bottom teeth before the treatment has concluded. This is because the upper and lower teeth have a very close relationship. If you change one, this is ultimately going to affect your bite. Most patients end up requiring both arches to be adjusted in order to get proper results.

What Risks Are Associated with Single-Arch Treatment?

If you straighten just your top or bottom teeth, but not both, it could easily throw off your bite. This could leave you with a variety of oral health issues, including jaw problems that result in head and neck pain. Uneven wearing can occur as well. This can compromise your protective enamel and lead to sensitivity and other dental problems in the future. If both arches are corrected at the same time, you won’t need to worry about the development of bite issues throughout the duration of your treatment.

Who Can Undergo Single-Arch Treatment?

For the most part, single-arch treatment is only suitable for people who have just a few crooked teeth or other minor alignment issues. Usually, this is done to fix issues that are solely cosmetic. If you are dealing with a more complex orthodontic problem, like a crossbite or open bite, this is probably not the best option. It is ideal for those who have:

• Minor spacing
• Slightly crooked front teeth
• Relapse after previous orthodontic treatment
• A tooth that is tipped out of alignment

Single-arch treatment is not recommended for most patients, but it is still possible. Talk to your dentist to find out if it is the right option for you. Your smile will have the finishing touches you’re looking for in no time!

About the Author

Dr. Earl Chambers is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for three decades! He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Maryland Baltimore College of Dental Surgery. Currently, he is a proud member of both the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. To learn more about Invisalign or to schedule a consultation at his office in Annapolis, visit his website or call (410) 224-2660.