When it comes to straightening out a smile, many people choose Invisalign because of how convenient it is. Normally, you wear the trays on the upper and lower arches of your teeth, gently moving them into a healthier alignment. However, what if one of them is crooked but not the other? Is it possible to get orthodontic treatment on it only? Keep reading to learn what you should know about getting clear aligners on just your upper teeth.
Can I Get Invisalign Only on One Dental Arch?
In short, it is possible to get Invisalign on just one dental arch. Since you won’t need any aligners for the other, you may have fewer trays and save some money! Thankfully, the treatment works the same as normal. You will wear the clear aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day, which applies a consistent, gentle pressure to your teeth to straighten them out.
That being said, a single-arch treatment can have its own set of challenges. Your upper and lower arches of teeth have a precise bite. If you adjust just one set, it can change the pressure points and how they come together when you chew. Some people find that they have increased jaw pain or dental wear afterwards. It’s important to have consistent visits with your dentist to ensure this doesn’t happen.
Will a Single-Arch Treatment Be Good for Me?
Before you start any orthodontic treatment, you will have a consultation with your Invisalign provider and learn whether or not you will benefit from it. This will help ensure that getting clear aligners on one dental arch won’t cause any problems for you. In most cases, it may be a viable option on just your upper teeth if:
- You want to close any minor gaps
- You have slightly crooked front teeth
- A single tooth of yours is out of alignment
In any scenario, it really depends on your misalignment. If your smile needs a bit more correcting, then having clear aligners on both of your dental arches may be best in the long run!
While getting Invisalign on only your upper teeth is possible, it may not be the right solution for everyone. It’s important to talk to your dentist and see how your orthodontic problem will be fixed without causing any issues. In the end, you will have a more aligned smile that you feel more confident in.
About the Author
Dr. Wael Kassem earned his dental degree from Temple University. He continues to be passionate about dentistry and stays on top of continuing his education and the latest technology. Dr. Kassem is proud to offer Invisalign as a solution to crooked teeth that doesn’t use any metal, unlike traditional braces. If you have any questions about how you can use clear aligners to get the healthier bite you deserve, schedule an appointment or contact his office at (856) 818-9998.