When considering orthodontic treatment, some patients wonder if they can straighten just their top or bottom teeth instead of committing to full braces. While this might sound like a faster or more affordable option, it’s generally not recommended by orthodontists—and for good reasons. Here’s what you need to know about braces and why it’s normally better to commit to straightening your top and bottom teeth, given all the life-changing benefits.
Why Single-Arch Braces Usually Aren’t Appropriate
Braces aren’t just about creating a straighter smile. They are also meant to bring your teeth and bite into proper alignment. Treating only one arch (either the top or bottom) can throw off the balance of your bite. This could lead to issues like jaw pain, uneven wear and chipping on your teeth, or even difficulty chewing and speaking comfortably. Even if the teeth in one arch look straight, the bite between the upper and lower teeth still needs to be in perfect harmony—braces on just one row can throw off that balance.
However, there are a few limited instances when single-arch braces might be appropriate. They can assist patients with mild crowding or spacing in one arch only, and they can help patients who have had prior treatment and need a minor correction. Your orthodontist will tell you if you qualify for braces on just one arch, but keep in mind that most patients benefit from a more comprehensive approach involving both arches. One analogy that is often used is balancing a scale; you need both sides working together for everything to stay steady, and braces on the top and bottom promote this stability!
Benefits of Getting Braces (on Both Arches)
Treating both the top and bottom teeth with braces at the same time comes with many advantages, like:
- Your bite will become properly aligned, reducing potential wear and tear on your teeth
- You’ll experience better jaw function and less risk of strain on those joints and muscles
- Your teeth are less likely to shift back to their original, incorrect positions after treatment
- Straighter teeth are also simply easier to brush and floss, so your whole smile will enjoy bolstered oral health
If you’re thinking about getting braces, the best place to start is at your orthodontist’s office; after carefully assessing your bite, they’ll let you know what type of braces are needed to achieve your goals and boost your oral wellness.
About the Practice
Dr. Jessica Cohen and our talented team have served patients in Highland Park and the surrounding area for several years, offering a wide range of services for children, teens, adults, and all those who have orthodontic goals to accomplish! Dr. Cohen is a board-certified orthodontist and proud member of many professional organizations, including the prestigious American Association of Orthodontics. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our office to schedule an appointment, please reach out online or call today for more information. Telephone: (224) 427-6800.