Clear aligners are typically worn on the upper and lower arches of teeth in order to help patients achieve the straighter, healthier smiles they deserve. But what if you only want to correct your upper teeth? Is it possible to get clear aligners for just one arch? And is doing so a good option? Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering getting clear aligners for your upper teeth only.
Is It Possible to Get Clear Aligners for Just One Arch?
The short answer is yes, it is indeed possible to perform a clear aligner treatment on just one arch of teeth. This approach naturally involves fewer aligners than normal, meaning it can end up saving you money in the long run. Other than that, a single-arch clear aligner treatment is largely similar to a normal one; you’ll need to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day so that they can gradually move the teeth closer to their ideal positions.
It’s important to note that a single-arch treatment can come with unique challenges. If the lower teeth stay where they are while the upper teeth are realigned, you could end up with an uneven bite, which can ultimately lead to unpleasant side effects such as pain in your jaw and difficulty chewing.
Is a Single-Arch Treatment a Good Choice for You?
Before you begin any sort of clear aligner treatment, your dentist will need to thoroughly examine your mouth. By looking at the current positions of your teeth and considering your orthodontic goals, they’ll be able to confirm whether it’s possible to realign just one arch without causing unnecessary bite problems.
In general, getting clear aligners for the upper teeth only may be a viable option for you if:
- You want to close minor gaps between your teeth.
- You have front teeth that are slightly crooked.
- You have one tooth that is tipped out of alignment.
Remember, the severity of your orthodontic problems makes a difference. If more extensive corrections are needed, it may be better to get clear aligners for both arches of teeth.
Single-arch clear aligners may not be for everyone, but they can certainly be worth considering if you want to address a relatively small orthodontic problem that involves just your upper teeth. If you plan on visiting your dentist in the near future to discuss straightening your smile with clear aligners, don’t be afraid to ask whether a single-arch treatment could be right for you.
About the Author
Dr. Rashpal Deol has more than 35 years of dental experience. He began practicing dentistry in India, where he earned his Bachelor of Dental Surgery and his Doctor of Dental Science. He eventually moved to the United States, and today he offers high-quality care for his patients at Oak Ridge Dental in San Ramon. He’s proud to offer clear aligners as an alternative to metal braces. If you want to use clear aligners to correct crooked upper teeth, you can schedule a visit with Dr. Deol by visiting his website or calling (925) 735-6190.
