Can You Get Invisalign for Bottom Teeth or Top Teeth Only?
Are you considering Invisalign treatment for your teeth but wondering if it's possible to correct just the top or bottom arch? While some orthodontists offer single arch Invisalign treatment, it's more common for dentists to recommend treating both arches. In this article, we'll explore the concept of single arch treatment, who may be a candidate for it, the associated risks, how the treatment works, and the cost involved.
Who is a Candidate for Single Arch Treatment?
Single arch treatment is typically considered when there are minor aesthetic issues that need correction. This may include minor crookedness in the front teeth, gaps between the top or bottom teeth (diastema), misaligned teeth, or mild spacing or crowding issues along the front or bottom teeth. Additionally, single arch treatment can be used to correct a previous Invisalign treatment or when a dentist is treating children's baby teeth. It's important to consult with your dentist to determine if you qualify for this type of treatment.
What are the Risks of Single Arch Aligner Treatment?
While single arch treatment may be suitable for certain cases, there are risks associated with focusing on only one arch. The most significant risk is the potential misalignment between the top and bottom teeth, which is known as malocclusion. Malocclusion can result in teeth biting in the wrong areas, leading to bite disruptions and potential changes in jaw position. This misalignment can affect your smile and appearance, potentially causing self-esteem issues. Additionally, malocclusions can lead to long-term health problems such as tooth damage, toothache, teeth grinding, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), sleep apnea, speech impediments, periodontal disease, increased risk for cavities, headaches, neck and jaw pain, and more. Treating only one arch increases the likelihood of errors, which is why comprehensive treatment of both arches is often recommended.
How Does Single Arch Invisalign Treatment Work?
The process of single arch Invisalign treatment is similar to that of treating both arches. Here are the general steps involved:
Consultation: Visit your orthodontist for an initial consultation to assess your candidacy for single arch treatment.
Assessment: Your orthodontist may require photographs, x-rays, and digital scans of your jaw and teeth to determine the best treatment plan.
Impressions: If you qualify for single arch treatment, your orthodontist will take impressions of your teeth.
Aligner creation: The impressions will be sent to a dental lab where custom Invisalign aligners will be made for you.
Aligner wear: You will wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, swapping them out every two weeks during your visits to the dentist.
Treatment duration: The duration of treatment depends on the severity of your bite issues and your progress. Invisalign aligners typically move teeth between 0.25 to 0.3 millimeters every two weeks. Minor issues may require only six months of treatment, while more complicated cases may take longer. It's important to wear the aligners as instructed by your dentist to ensure optimal results.
How Much Does Single Arch Invisalign Treatment Cost?
The cost of single arch Invisalign treatment can vary depending on several factors, including treatment length, the type of bite issues being addressed, and your location. The national average cost ranges from $2,500 to $5,500, although some sources mention costs as high as $9,000 for more complex cases. It's worth noting that treating both arches is not significantly more expensive than treating just one in many cases. Some dentists may charge the same fee regardless of treating one or both arches. Costs can also be influenced by insurance coverage, as many insurers include Invisalign as part of their dental plans. Additionally, you may have the option to pay with Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and some dentists may offer payment plans to help manage the cost.
In Conclusion
While it is possible to undergo Invisalign treatment for either the top or bottom teeth only, dentists often advise treating both arches to minimize the risks of malocclusion and other complications. Single arch treatment is generally recommended for individuals with minor aesthetic issues. The cost of Invisalign treatment varies based on factors such as treatment length, the complexity of the case, and location. It's important to consult with your dentist to determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs and to explore the available payment options and insurance coverage.