Orthodontist Prosper & Frisco
Welcome to
Buchwald
Orthodontics
When looking at your teeth, you may think the only real area that needs treatment is your upper arch. These teeth may appear crooked or even gapped, but your lower row appears completely normal. You’re certainly not the only person to wonder if braces can be worn on just the top or bottom teeth. However, an orthodontist is here to explain why although there is no rule saying you cannot move forward with that type of treatment, it’s highly recommended that you opt for a full set instead.
Can Braces Be Worn on Just Top or Bottom Teeth?
Technically, yes, you can have braces put into place on just your upper or lower arch of teeth. However, this is not the best solution for every patient. In fact, most orthodontists and dentists recommend that it is better for you to receive a full set of braces instead of just a single roe.
The reason for this is that it can create additional problems with your bite. If one row consists of crooked, overcrowded, or gapped teeth, and you opt to treat only that row, it can lead to a change in your bite that will then need to be corrected.
Living with an improper bite can cause worn-down tooth enamel and chronic jaw pain – both of which can be detrimental to your oral health.
By wearing a full set of braces, you reduce the risk of a serious bite problem later on and instead, watch as your smile moves properly into alignment and functions normally.
What is the Reason for Someone to Only Receive a Single Arch Method of Treatment?
Typically, when someone is interested in fixing one row of teeth (the top or bottom), it is usually for cosmetic reasons. It often has nothing to do with the function and health of their overall smile. It is important to remember, though, that choosing orthodontic treatment for cosmetic reasons will likely require you to pay for treatment without the help of dental insurance.
Most insurance companies will not cover the cost of care if they know it is not medically necessary. This is another reason why many dentists will recommend full mouth treatment, as it is usually covered in part by insurance, and it reduces the potential risk for a serious bite alignment problem.
Braces on only one arch may not be the best idea, but you can trust that by allowing your orthodontist to treat your entire smile, you’ll enjoy a longer-lasting, beautiful, and healthy smile for a lifetime.
About the Author
Dr. Bradley Buchwald is a trusted orthodontist who completed his dental education at the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine. He went on to complete a three-year orthodontic residency at Texas A&M University’s Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas. At Buchwald Orthodontics, he and his team help patients of all ages achieve healthier, straighter smiles. If you’re ready to see new and improved teeth, visit our website or call (972) 377-5940 to schedule an appointment.