Partial Orthodontics
Instead of attaching braces to all teeth, braces are attached only to some teeth, such as the front teeth or molars, to correct only part of the dentition.
What is partial orthodontics?
Partial orthodontics straightens only part of the teeth, such as the upper or lower teeth, or the front teeth or molars, by attaching braces to those teeth only.
Because braces are attached to only some of the teeth, chair time is shorter, and the overall treatment period is also shorter than with full orthodontic treatment.
※ All teeth work together and affect one another, so treatment usually needs to involve the full set of teeth. Whether partial orthodontics is possible can be determined only after an accurate diagnosis.
If a layperson or non-specialist decides on partial orthodontics, it may lead to serious dissatisfaction or harm dental health, so you should choose your treatment method after a thorough consultation with a board-certified orthodontist.
Who partial orthodontics is for
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Those whose front teeth alone have gaps or are crooked
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Those with only some front teeth protruding
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Those who need retreatment after orthodontic treatment
FAQ
Tap a question to see the answer.
Can I straighten just my front teeth?
If your back teeth bite well and only some front teeth are out of position, partial orthodontics may be enough. If the whole bite is off or there is far too little space to move the teeth, the teeth may flare forward even after they are aligned. I will tell you honestly whether partial orthodontics is possible in your case.
What do you do about snaggleteeth or overlapping teeth?
Snaggleteeth occur when there is not enough space for the teeth to line up. Depending on how much space is lacking, we very slightly reshape the sides of the teeth, widen the dental arch, or extract teeth for orthodontic purposes. When reshaping between teeth is needed, it is kept within 0.3 mm per surface and within the enamel.
I have a gap between my front teeth. Orthodontics or laminate veneers?
If the teeth have drifted apart, closing the space with orthodontics is the right approach. If the teeth themselves are small or there is a tongue-thrusting habit, the gap may reopen or look unnatural even after it is closed, so veneers may be more suitable. If both apply, we consider veneers after orthodontics. We also check the gums and oral habits.
What appliance is used for partial orthodontics?
We usually use brackets attached only to the front teeth. Tooth-colored brackets are less noticeable, but the wire and brackets can still be seen. If a wider range of teeth needs to move, we choose together from full-treatment appliances.
How does treatment proceed, and what is daily life like?
The order is examination → explanation of the plan → appliance → adjustments → retainer. For adjustments, come twice at two-week intervals at first, then usually once a month. Please clean carefully around the front-teeth brackets with an interdental brush.
How long does partial orthodontics take?
It usually takes about 6 to 9 months. It varies with how much the teeth need to move and with your bite, so we give you an estimate after the examination.
Aren’t veneers faster for closing a front-tooth gap?
They can be faster, but the teeth may need to be reshaped. If the gap is caused by tooth position, orthodontics is the approach that touches the teeth less.
Can partial orthodontics be done with clear aligners?
At our clinic, partial orthodontics is usually done with brackets on the front teeth. If clear aligners are a better fit, we consider them as part of an overall plan.
Does reshaping between the teeth weaken them?
We reshape only when needed, within 0.3 mm per surface and within the enamel. The teeth may be sensitive for a short while afterwards.
Side effects and limitations
- If the whole bite is the cause, partial orthodontics has limits.
- If the sides of the teeth are reshaped, they may be temporarily sensitive.
- If the retainer is not worn properly, gaps can reappear.
Treatment results and side effects may vary from person to person.