When most people think about Invisalign, they imagine a full set of clear aligners straightening both their top and bottom teeth at the same time. But what if your bottom teeth are already straight and you only want to fix the crowding or spacing on your top teeth? This leads to a common question: Can I get Invisalign on just my top teeth? The short answer is yes—but it depends on your individual needs.
What is Single-Arch Invisalign?
When Invisalign treatment is done on just one row of teeth—either the top or the bottom—it’s called single-arch treatment. Instead of wearing aligners on both arches, you’d only wear them on the one that needs correction. For people who are bothered by small gaps, mild crowding, or minor alignment issues on their top teeth, this may sound like the perfect solution.
When It’s a Good Option
Single-arch Invisalign is usually reserved for mild cosmetic cases. If your bite is healthy and your top and bottom teeth fit together correctly, your dentist or orthodontist may recommend aligners only on the top teeth. Some common situations where this might work include:
- Closing a small gap in the top teeth.
- Straightening slightly crooked front teeth.
- Making minor cosmetic improvements without affecting the bite.
In these cases, treating only the top teeth may save time and money while still giving you the smile you want.
When It’s Not Recommended
While it may sound simple, moving only one arch of teeth can sometimes create or worsen bite problems. Your teeth are designed to work together, and if one arch shifts while the other stays the same, your bite alignment could be thrown off. This could lead to:
- Difficulty chewing properly.
- Jaw discomfort or strain.
- Uneven wear on certain teeth.
- Increased risk of future dental problems.
For patients with bite issues like overbite, underbite, or crossbite, full-arch Invisalign is usually necessary to keep the bite healthy and balanced.
The Role of Your Dentist
Ultimately, whether you’re a candidate for single-arch Invisalign depends on your unique case. Your dentist or orthodontist will examine your bite, take digital scans, and determine whether treating only your top teeth will give you the results you want without creating future problems. Sometimes, even if your bottom teeth look straight, small adjustments may be needed to ensure that your bite stays aligned as your top teeth shift.
Yes, you can get Invisalign for just your top teeth—but it’s not the right choice for everyone. If you have minor spacing or alignment issues and a healthy bite, single-arch treatment might work for you. However, for many patients, full treatment is the safer option to protect your bite and long-term oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Shevy Kadiyala graduated with Summa Cum Laude honors from Nova Southeastern University School of Dental Medicine in Florida, where she was awarded the Dean’s Award for achieving the highest academic performance. Dr. Kadiyala is an active member of multiple dental organizations, serves as a visiting faculty member at Nova Southeastern University School of Dental Medicine, and stays current with leading dental advancements and technologies via ongoing education. Looking to get Invisalign treatment for some or all of your teeth? Schedule an appointment with us online or call (561) 686-2077.