Millions of people turn to Invisalign every year to straighten their smiles. These clear aligners slip over your top and bottom teeth to gradually straighten them over time. But what if you only need one arch corrected? Can you cut the treatment in half to save time or money? Well, it depends. Keep reading to see when single-arch Invisalign makes sense and when your dentist might recommend a full mouth approach.
Is Single-Arch Invisalign Possible?
Single-arch Invisalign is a common practice that focuses on straightening teeth in only one part of your mouth—either the top or bottom. For example, if your upper teeth are crowded or crooked but your bottom teeth are fine, your dentist may consider aligning just that top arch.
This approach can be a good choice if:
- You’ve already had orthodontic treatment and just need a touch-up.
- Your bite (how your teeth meet) is healthy and balanced.
- You’re correcting mild spacing or cosmetic issues, not complex crowding.
When Does Single-Arch Invisalign Not Work?
While treating only one arch can work fine, it’s not always the right call. Your upper and lower teeth work together, so adjusting one set without the other can throw off your bite without careful calibration. This might lead to uneven wear, jaw discomfort, or even relapse once your treatment ends.
If your bite is deep, you have overbites or crossbites, or both of your dental arches are misaligned, your dentist will likely recommend treating both. Doing this ensures your teeth fit together properly and your results stand the test of time.
How Will You Know If Single-Arch Treatment Is Right for You?
While one half of your smile can look good in the mirror, it’s important to see your dentist instead of diagnosing anything yourself. Sometimes appearances can be deceiving, so it’s always best to have your dentist evaluate your teeth and gums before treatment.
This ensures that your Invisalign aligners address every issue, so you achieve better balance and long-term stability.
Single-arch Invisalign can work beautifully for some patients, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. A dentist experienced with Invisalign can help you see if it fits your smile goals, or may put your pearly whites at risk. Whether you need minor adjustments or full alignment, Invisalign can deliver a straighter, healthier, and more confident smile from top to bottom.
About the Practice
At Westgate Dental Care, our expert dentists provide clear answers and personalized solutions for every patient. Our friendly team carefully evaluates every smile to decide the best approach for treatment, helping you achieve balanced, comfortable, and confident results. Call (847) 577-7171 to schedule an Invisalign consultation with us or visit our website to explore other services.