Single Arch Invisalign Treatment: A Viable Solution for Minor Misalignment

Overall, you like your smile, but there’s a little something off. You debate whether you should get Invisalign treatment when you really only need to make small adjustments to your top teeth. You don’t need major changes to your bite, but is this treatment still worth considering in your case?

Well, did you know that it’s possible to treat only your top teeth (or bottom teeth) with just one aligner in your mouth at a time? This is called single arch Invisalign treatment. Although your dentist will ultimately determine if addressing just one arch is the right course of action for your smile, here is some information to know about this unique approach.

How Single Arch Invisalign Treatment Works

The treatment process for a single arch is basically the same as treating both arches at the same time. You wear the aligner every day, taking it out only when you eat, drink anything but water, and brush and floss your teeth. After about a week, you switch to the next aligner in your plan. Because the lower teeth do not have an aligner, they remain the same as your top teeth shift slightly into the perfect alignment.

When to Consider Single Arch Treatment

If you have any issues with your bite, such as a crossbite or overbite, then more complex work on both arches may be necessary. However, in the case of the following problems, single arch treatment may become a viable option:

• Slightly crooked front teeth
• Small spacing or gaps
• Relapse after prior orthodontic therapy
• Teeth in the smile zone
• Minor cosmetic misalignment

As an alternative to single arch treatment, you could think about getting “instant orthodontics” or porcelain veneers. In just a matter of two appointments, these tooth-resembling shells can correct minor alignment issues without having to actually shift your teeth. It’s worth at least thinking about and discussing with your dentist!

Risks of Single Arch Treatment

When both arches are treated, your dentist has the capability to coordinate the shift in their alignment at the same time. Rubber bands or elastics help the arches move each other into the right position, but if you treat just one arch, you do not have these options available, which is why this treatment is reserved for smaller changes.

In addition, your dentist needs to keep a close eye on your progress throughout treatment to make sure that your bite essentially remains the same. The last thing you want to do is alter how your upper and lower teeth fit together because this can cause jaw pain, toothaches, and accelerated tooth wear.

If you think you could be a good candidate for single arch Invisalign treatment, don’t hesitate to meet with your dentist and talk about your options. You may be able to correct the issue with just one aligner instead of two!

About the Practice

In West Seneca, Applegate Dental is proud to serve patients of all ages and with basically any dental need. Each patient receives a completely personalized treatment plan, ensuring that the results look perfectly natural for their smile. Our five dentists have years of clinical experience working with Invisalign. If you are interested in learning more about Invisalign, you may schedule a consultation by calling the practice at 716-668-4646 or reaching out to us online here.