As you have interacted with people who wear braces, you may have noticed that most of them have orthodontic appliances on both their top and bottom teeth. If you are thinking about getting treatment, that may cause you to wonder if you will also need full-mouth braces. But what if you feel that only your upper or lower teeth would benefit from correction? Can you get braces just for the teeth that truly need them? This blog post explains what you should know.
Double-Arch Treatment Is Usually Best
While single-arch treatment is possible in some cases, it is best not to get your hopes up! Most patients need full-mouth braces in order to achieve their desired results.
Why is that true? Remember that orthodontic care is not just about “straightening” the teeth. It is also about occlusion — your bite, or the way your upper and lower teeth work together.
If the teeth in your upper or lower dental arch undergo significant repositioning, that will affect how they interact with the teeth opposite them. If your bite is not properly aligned, you will be at a greater risk of numerous issues, including TMJ disorder, premature wear on your teeth, broken and chipped teeth, and more. Plus, the aesthetic results may not be what you hoped for.
When Is Single-Arch Treatment Possible?
Single-arch orthodontic treatment might be possible if either your upper or lower teeth need only slight adjustments. Typically, this approach is best suited for minor cosmetic adjustments.
Most people who qualify for single-arch treatment get braces just on their top teeth. Since these are the most visible when you smile, correcting issues like minor abnormal spacing or rotated teeth can provide aesthetically pleasing results. A small number of patients who are self-conscious about their bottom teeth get lower arch treatment.
Speak to Your Orthodontist
Your orthodontist’s primary concern is your oral health. During your consultation, they will evaluate the positioning of your teeth and the mechanics of your bite before they recommend a treatment plan. If they determine that double-arch treatment would be the best option for you, it would be wise to move forward with their suggestion.
If you find out that single-arch treatment is a viable option, take that as good news! Often, single-arch braces are more affordable and more comfortable than the full-mouth approach.
No matter how extensive your orthodontic treatment is, be patient and trust your care team. Before you know it, you will likely have a healthier, more attractive smile that you are proud to show off!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Tom Hall has worked as an orthodontist for more than a quarter of a century. He is a leader in his field and is proud to offer multiple types of braces, including traditional metal braces, lingual braces, and more. To learn more about Dr. Hall and the services available in our practice, or to request a consultation, contact our Houston office at 713-862-8223.