Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that offers an attractive alternative to traditional metal braces. Using a series of customized clear aligners, Invisalign can gradually push misaligned teeth into straighter and healthier positions. While this treatment is typically used to realign both arches of teeth simultaneously, some patients may be able to receive their treatment on only one row of teeth only if the other row is in good shape. Here’s how this process works as well as a few of its potential risks.
Who Can Receive Invisalign Treatment on a Single Arch?
Treating a single arch with Invisalign may be best for those who have minor alignment issues that are mostly cosmetic in nature. More complex issues like overbites, crossbites, underbites, and open bites will require treatment of both arches. An individual may be a great candidate for single-arch Invisalign if they are seeking to correct issues like:
- Minor gaps
- Slightly crooked front teeth
- A single tooth drifting out of alignment
- Addressing dental drift that happened after a previous orthodontic treatment
In these cases, Invisalign treatment may take as little as four months or as long as a year or more. The best way to ensure that your treatment stays on track is to wear your aligners as directed while maintaining excellent hygiene and maintenance habits.
Can Treating a Single Arch with Invisalign Be Risky?
The top and bottom arches of teeth are designed to have an extremely precise biting relationship when they are closed together, which allows for efficient biting, tearing, and chewing. Adjusting the alignment of a single arch incorrectly can change the pressure points in your bite, which can make the eating process less efficient and may even lead to indigestion due to insufficiently chewed food. An improperly performed Invisalign treatment can also lead to issues like uneven wear, toothaches, and TMJ pain.
The best way to find out if you can be a good candidate for Invisalign treatment is to schedule a consultation with a qualified dentist. During this meeting, they will carefully evaluate your mouth to determine the best way to help you achieve a straighter and healthier smile.
About the Practice
D&G Dental of West Orange offers the finest oral healthcare services in town. Led by Drs. Med Dawoud, Paula Gencarelli, Vanessa Bellentine, and Justin Lee, the staff ensures that each patient receives outstanding care as well as remarkable customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as Invisalign services. To schedule your Invisalign consultation, contact the practice online or dial (973) 731-2200.