Can I Get Braces on Just the Top?

If you’re embarrassed by gapped, overcrowded, or rotated teeth, braces can give you a straight smile. Whether you need complex tooth movements or minor adjustments, you’ll probably need braces on both your top and bottom teeth. Although it’s possible to get braces on just the upper or lower teeth, it’s rarely a good idea, and here’s why.

How Traditional Braces Work

Metal braces have been used for generations to fix bite and alignment issues. Brackets are temporarily bonded to your teeth, which will hold an archwire to apply continual pressure. The system moves teeth slowly as adjustments are made to the archwire every few weeks. The average treatment takes about 18 to 24 months, but many factors affect the timeline.

Risks of Single Arch Treatment

Single arch treatment is possible, but most people aren’t candidates for it. Treating only one arch can affect your bite, which can damage your teeth, increase your risk of jaw pain, and lead to many other issues. 

Your upper and lower teeth must rest together in harmony to create a balanced bite for proper oral functions. Moving just one arch can misalign your bite, causing serious problems down the road. 

While single arch treatment is unlikely, some patients are candidates, such as to close a gap between front teeth or moving a slightly misaligned tooth. Your orthodontist will examine your mouth to determine whether you’ll need braces on one arch or both.

Benefits of a Straight Smile

Bite and alignment issues are more than aesthetic problems. They can affect your dental health, self-esteem, and quality of life. Braces are an investment in a healthy, beautiful smile. Here are just a few benefits you’ll enjoy by fixing your teeth:

• Boost Your Confidence: You will look and feel your best knowing your smile is healthy and beautiful. You won’t be embarrassed by gaps or overcrowded teeth, so you’ll never think twice before showing your pearly whites.
• Improve Your Oral Health: Poorly aligned teeth can increase your risk of cavities, gum disease, dental emergencies, and many other issues. Straight teeth are easier to keep clean to lessen your risk of preventable dental problems.
• Improve Your Oral Functions: Correcting your bite ensures your upper and lower teeth work together correctly, which is important for chewing and speaking.
• Prevent TMJ Disorders: A poor bite can cause recurring jaw pain from a TMJ disorder. Improving the bite relationship can take pressure off the joints to prevent and treat TMJ disorders.

Although you’ll probably need braces on the top and bottom, don’t let that stop you from investing in your best smile. Your orthodontist will create the personalized plan you need.

About Dr. Jenna Oberley

Dr. Oberley achieved her dental degree at Indiana University and continued her education in orthodontics at the University of Colorado. She is committed to creating healthy smiles using the latest solutions in orthodontics. Request an appointment through her website or call (317) 886-1304.