You’ve long been bothered by your crooked top teeth, but you don’t have any problem with the way your bottom teeth look. As such, you may be wondering whether you can have an Invisalign treatment done for the top teeth only. The short answer is yes, it is possible to get clear aligners for just one arch. But is this really the best choice for your smile? Here’s what you need to know before beginning the Invisalign process.
What Can You Expect from a Single-Arch Invisalign Treatment?
When you begin a single-arch Invisalign treatment, you will receive a series of clear aligners designed for your specific smile. You will wear these aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day; as you do, they will exert small amounts of pressure on your teeth in order to guide them closer to their ideal positions. Once you’re done with an aligner, you’ll switch it out for the next one in the series. This process is repeated until the teeth are where they need to be.
Compared to the traditional Invisalign process, a single-arch treatment typically calls for fewer aligners. As such, it usually carries a lower cost.
Does Single-Arch Invisalign Treatment Come with Any Risks?
There is one particularly notable risk when it comes to single-arch Invisalign treatment: an imbalanced bite. Adjusting the alignment of one arch but not the other can change the way they come together, which can result in some teeth being exposed to an excessive amount of pressure whenever you bite or chew. This can lead to a variety of issues, such as jaw pain and certain teeth wearing down faster than normal.
Is Single-Arch Invisalign Treatment Ever a Good Option?
Yes, despite the risks involved, single-arch Invisalign can still be beneficial for certain patients as long as the desired changes won’t have a negative impact on the balance of the bite. You might be a candidate to get Invisalign for just the upper teeth if you have minor orthodontic issues, such as small gaps, front teeth that are just a bit crooked, or a tooth that has been tipped out of alignment.
Of course, the only way to know for sure whether single-arch Invisalign treatment is truly right for you is to speak with a dental expert. If you’ve been considering getting clear aligners for just your upper teeth, now may be a good time to schedule an appointment with your dentist. They’ll be able to help you figure out the best strategy for achieving the straighter, healthier smile you deserve.
About the Author
Dr. David Salibian went to the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, and he used to teach at the Forsyth Dental Hygiene School. At EyeSmile Dentistry and Optometry of Belmont, he prides himself on being able to offer a comprehensive menu of dental services, including Invisalign for correcting crooked teeth and other orthodontic issues. If you’re interested in learning more about Invisalign, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Salibian by visiting his website or calling (617) 484-7869.