Getting braces is a big decision that requires careful consideration of your specific orthodontic needs. While most people get braces applied to both their upper and lower teeth, it is possible in some cases to only get braces on one dental arch. There are pros and cons to this approach that you should discuss with your orthodontist.
What are dental arches?
Your upper and lower jaws each form a dental arch, which refers to the curved shape your teeth align in. The upper dental arch is formed by your maxillary teeth, while the lower arch contains your mandibular teeth. Each arch plays an important role in biting, chewing, and speaking. Having proper alignment between both arches is key for optimal dental function.
Why would someone only get braces on one arch?
There are a few possible reasons someone may only need or want braces on one dental arch:
- Only one arch has orthodontic issues needing correction, like crowding, gaps, or misalignment. The other arch may be properly aligned already.
- The person wants to address a specific orthodontic problem only affecting one arch, like an overbite or crossbite, without full braces.
- Cost savings – getting braces on only one arch is cheaper than two arches.
- Appearance – some people prefer the look of braces on one arch versus both.
- Less treatment time – fixing one arch can be quicker than doing both.
In some cases, braces for just the upper or lower teeth can effectively fix certain orthodontic problems without requiring full two-arch braces. But there are also disadvantages to this limited approach.
Potential disadvantages of one-arch braces
While one-arch braces may be suitable in some situations, potential downsides can include:
- Only partially addresses orthodontic issues – teeth work together, so fixing just one arch may fail to fully correct alignment problems.
- Can create new problems – improper coordination between the arches could develop over time.
- Slower or less stable results – moving only one arch affects how teeth fit together.
- Less effective for complex cases – limited ability to fix overbites, underbites, or jaw alignment.
- Retention challenges – keeping one arch corrected while the other moves is difficult.
- Aesthetic concerns – differences between the arches may look unsightly.
One-arch braces are sometimes an option, but most orthodontists recommend braces for both arches in many situations to properly align the overall bite. Consult with an orthodontist to determine if one-arch braces could work for your needs or if two-arch braces would be better.
What orthodontic problems can one-arch braces fix?
While one-arch braces have limitations, they may be able to successfully resolve some types of orthodontic issues including:
Crowding or gaps in one arch
Braces only on the crowded or gapped arch can help straighten just those teeth.
Single arch alignment issues
Minor crookedness, rotations, or tilting of teeth in one arch can sometimes be fixed with one-arch braces.
Anterior crossbite correction
Braces on the affected arch can pull the front top or bottom teeth outward to correct an anterior crossbite.
Posterior crossbite treatment
Posterior crossbite affecting only one side of the mouth may be fixable by braces on that upper or lower arch.
Some overbite issues
Mild to moderate overbites may be improved through extrusion or alignment of just the lower or upper arch.
Minor esthetic adjustments
Slight straightening of visible teeth in one arch can sometimes provide subtle esthetic improvements.
But more complex orthodontic cases usually require two-arch braces for the best outcome. Consult an orthodontist to determine if one-arch braces could work for your situation.
What are the different types of one-arch braces?
If you decide to get braces on just one arch, there are different types of appliances to choose from. Common options include:
Traditional metal braces
– Brackets and wires affixed to teeth on only the upper or lower arch
Ceramic braces
– Clear or tooth-colored brackets for less visibility on one arch
Lingual braces
– Brackets bonded to the backs of teeth on one arch only
Clear aligners
– Custom clear trays worn on one arch to gradually move teeth
Gold braces
– Gold brackets connected by wires on either arch
The type of one-arch braces used depends on your specific orthodontic needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Talk to your orthodontist about which option may be most suitable.
How long do one-arch braces take?
Treatment time with one-arch braces varies case-by-case, but generally ranges from:
- 6-12 months for minor crowding or alignment issues
- 12-18 months for more significant orthodontic correction
- 18-24 months or more for complex cases like crossbites
Two-arch braces often take 18-36 months to fully realign the bite. One-arch braces may not need to be worn quite as long since only one dental arch is being corrected. But treatment times depend on the severity of the problem being fixed.
One-arch braces cost
Getting braces on just one dental arch is typically less expensive than two arches. Some approximate costs for one-arch braces include:
| Braces Type | Single Arch Cost |
|---|---|
| Metal braces | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| Ceramic braces | $2,000 – $4,500 |
| Lingual braces | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| Clear aligners | $2,000 – $5,000 |
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of orthodontic treatment. Out-of-pocket costs may vary based on your coverage and orthodontist fees. Treatment for just one arch may mean lower costs overall.
Pros and cons of one-arch braces
Here is a quick overview of some main advantages and disadvantages of getting braces on just one dental arch:
Potential advantages
- Lower cost of treatment
- Shorter treatment time
- Less visibility of braces
- Only minimal orthodontic work needed
- May fix select orthodontic issues
Potential disadvantages
- May not fully correct orthodontic problems
- Can create new bite issues over time
- Retention can be challenging
- Results may be less stable
- Jaw and complex bite issues hard to fix
Talk to your orthodontist about whether one-arch braces could work for your situation or if expanding treatment to both arches would be better.
Should I get braces on one or both arches?
Whether you should get braces on just one arch or both comes down to your specific orthodontic needs.
One-arch braces may be an option if you have:
- Mild crowding, gaps, or alignment issues in one arch
- Need to correct an isolated crossbite or overbite
- Minimal esthetic braces requested for subtle improvements
But two-arch braces are usually recommended for:
- Moderate to severe crowding, gaps, or alignment problems
- Bite issues like underbites, open bites, or overjets
- Jaw size discrepancies requiring coordination between arches
- Complex cases requiring full orthodontic realignment
Your orthodontist can best evaluate your situation and advise you on whether one-arch braces could work or if expanding treatment to both arches would provide better orthodontic correction and properly aligned bite.
Consult an orthodontist about one-arch braces
While braces only on your upper or lower teeth may seem like a simpler approach, it’s not necessarily the best option for everyone. There are pros and cons to consider.
To determine if one-arch braces are suitable for your situation, schedule a consult with an experienced orthodontist. They can examine your teeth and bite issues in detail, and let you know if limited one-arch braces could correct your particular orthodontic problems or if expanded two-arch braces would be a better choice for proper alignment and function.
With an orthodontist’s expertise and advice, you can decide if one-arch braces or two-arch braces would be the most effective approach to achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
