Invisalign is a popular choice for people who want to straighten their teeth without the look and hassle of traditional braces. One common question patients ask is: “Can I get Invisalign for just my top teeth?” The short answer is yes, but it’s not always the best solution for everyone. Whether this option is right for you depends on your bite, alignment, and overall treatment goals.
What is Single-Arch Invisalign Treatment?
When Invisalign is used only on the top or bottom teeth, it’s called single-arch treatment. Instead of wearing aligners on both arches, you only wear them on one. This approach can be effective in certain cases, but your dentist or orthodontist will need to evaluate whether it will give you a healthy, functional smile in the long run.
When Single-Arch Treatment May Work
Single-arch Invisalign may be recommended if:
- Minor spacing or crowding exists only on one arch: For example, if your top teeth are slightly crowded but your bottom teeth are straight, treating just the top may be an option.
- Cosmetic improvements are the main goal: Patients who want to fix the appearance of their smile without addressing bite issues may benefit.
- Previous orthodontic treatment has shifted: If you had braces before but only one arch has relapsed, limited Invisalign treatment might correct it.
When Both Arches Need Treatment
In many cases, treating only the top teeth can create problems. Your upper and lower teeth need to fit together properly for a healthy bite. If only one arch is moved, it may throw off your alignment and cause issues such as:
- Jaw pain or TMJ disorder.
- Uneven wear on teeth.
- Difficulty chewing.
- Relapse, where teeth shift back over time.
If your dentist determines that your bite would be affected, they’ll likely recommend full Invisalign treatment on both arches.
Cost and Treatment Time
Single-arch Invisalign typically costs less than full treatment since fewer aligners are needed. Treatment time may also be shorter, sometimes lasting only a few months compared to a year or more for both arches. However, these benefits only apply if your case is simple enough to qualify for limited treatment.
How to Know If It’s Right for You
The only way to know if you’re a candidate for Invisalign on just your top teeth is to schedule a consultation. Your dentist or orthodontist will take digital scans of your teeth and evaluate your bite. They’ll then recommend whether single-arch treatment will give you the results you want without compromising your long-term oral health.
Yes, you can get Invisalign on only your top teeth, but it’s not always the best choice. For some patients, single-arch treatment works beautifully. For others, it risks creating new problems. A professional evaluation is essential to determine the safest, most effective way to achieve your dream smile.
About the Author
Dr. Britta Lundgren is a graduate of the prestigious Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Following graduation, she spent three years in Germany practicing under a German dental license through a U.S. Army-NATO command sponsorship. Still learning and striving to improve, Dr. Lundgren is very active in professional dental organizations and is currently a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Cape Fear Dental Study Club. If you’re seeking Invisalign treatment, we’d love to help you! Schedule an appointment online or call our Wilmington office at (910) 777-5023.