Invisalign on Only Top Teeth? Uncommon But Definitely Possible

Most of the time, those who wish to make their smile perfectly straight must have a clear Invisalign tray on both their upper and lower arches. However, in some less common cases, only one arch (typically the top) needs to be treated. But when does this exception happen? How do you know if you fit into this rare group? How long does this different type of treatment take? Does your choice or preference matter in the decision to have one or two aligners? Keep reading to find out!

When Can Someone Get Invisalign on Just Their Top Teeth?

Some people are fortunate enough to be born with mostly straight teeth. Others already had the opportunity to realign their teeth with braces while young, but over time they haven’t kept wearing their retainers. In either of these cases, their teeth simply require aesthetic realignment, not more serious movements. The following are examples of the types of adjustments that Invisalign just on top teeth can make:

• Correcting slightly crooked front teeth.
• Closing minor spacing or gaps.
• Fixing a small relapse after previous orthodontic treatment.
• Adjusting a tooth tipped out of alignment.
• Addressing the teeth in your smile zone near the front of the mouth.

Do I Qualify for Invisalign on Just My Top Teeth?

Even if you would prefer wearing just one Invisalign aligner instead of two, the decision doesn’t depend on your wishes. Your Invisalign provider must assess your needs and determine what treatment would best help you achieve the results you want. That being said, if your needs don’t include bite alignment issues or other major movement, you may have the option of working on just your top teeth.

Keep in mind that even if it appears to you that only one arch needs work, your Invisalign provider has advanced training and can identify potential issues you may not readily see. Trust their expertise to guide you.

How Long Does Single Arch Invisalign Treatment Take?

As you might imagine, with less complicated changes to make, single arch treatment tends to require a much shorter period of time. On average, Invisalign patients with both arches can finish wearing the aligners in 18 months or sooner, which means single arch treatment can end potentially within a year, depending on the circumstances. However, afterward, you still need to wear a retainer if you want the results to last.

Whether you require one or two Invisalign aligners, enjoy the fact that these barely noticeable clear trays work quickly to give you the perfectly aligned smile you’ve always wanted without completely disrupting your life. Talk to your Invisalign dentist today to see if you need one or two aligners to achieve your dream smile!

About the Practice

At Applegate Dental, we never use cookie-cutter care, which basically means every patient gets their own personalized treatment plan. By customizing our services, we can ensure you walk away with a uniquely beautiful and aesthetically pleasing smile. Our dentists have years of training and love to transform lives with Invisalign. Are you interested in having a consultation? Give our West Seneca office a call at 716-668-4646 or visit our Contact Us page.