Many people who get braces have them on the top and bottom rows of their teeth. However, in some cases, straightening is only needed on the bottom. Bottom braces might seem like an unusual approach to orthodontic treatment, but it’s one of the most effective ways to resolve dental issues like misalignment, under- and over-bites, and various cosmetic concerns.
Here’s what you should know if your dentist has recommended bottom braces.
Why Do People Need Bottom Braces?
Just as there are different reasons why you might need braces on both the top and bottom rows of teeth, there are many reasons for needing bottom-only braces. For example:
Alignment Issues
In some cases, people have straight teeth on the top but crowding, misalignment, or crookedness on the bottom. If you’re in this category, your dentist might recommend bottom braces.
Bite Issues
One of the most common reasons for needing braces is bite issues. This is true for full braces, as well as bottom-only braces. Misalignment, also known as malocclusion, occurs when your bottom teeth don’t align with your top teeth.
In addition to causing cosmetic issues, this also leads to discomfort, difficulty chewing, and more wear and tear on teeth than usual. In many cases, straightening the bottom row of teeth is all that is needed to resolve the problem.
Cosmetic Issues
It’s now common knowledge that braces are needed to correct problems that can lead to dental health issues, but that doesn’t mean that cosmetic concerns aren’t important. Many people opt for bottom braces to correct aesthetic issues with their teeth.
Balancing Improvements
There are some cases where people corrected their top teeth as teenagers with braces or retainers but didn’t with the bottom teeth. Often, this is due to the expense associated with braces, but there might have been other reasons. Regardless of why, as adults, some people choose to get bottom braces to create balance and have a completely perfect smile.
How Are Bottom Braces Different from Full Braces?
Bottom braces and top braces function in much the same way, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t differences. Understanding these differences can prepare you for your orthodontic journey. Bottom braces are usually:
Less Visible
Although this isn’t the case for everyone, many people find that bottom braces are less noticeable than having them on the top row of teeth. This is a big advantage for people, especially adults, who are self-conscious about wearing braces.
Shorter Treatment Duration
Again, this isn’t always the case for everyone, but many people have a shorter treatment duration when they only wear braces on their bottom teeth. The overall treatment time depends on your specific situation, but in some cases, your orthodontist can move the bottom teeth faster because the top teeth aren’t involved in treatment.
Less Maintenance and Fewer Adjustments
In most cases, bottom braces are less labor-intensive. You’ll need to schedule fewer return visits to the orthodontist for adjustments, and your dental health will be easier to maintain because you’re only dealing with braces on your bottom row of teeth.
Comfort
Wearing braces on only the bottom row of teeth is more comfortable. There won’t be any brackets or wires on the top row, so there won’t be as much pressure on your jaw. You might experience some discomfort when your orthodontist adjusts the bottom braces, but overall, it’s easier to tolerate because it’s only a portion of your mouth.
What Are the Benefits of Straightening Your Bottom Teeth?
Many people are tempted to forego bottom braces, especially if their top teeth already received treatment or are naturally straight. Unfortunately, this could be asking for dental health trouble down the road. Straightening your bottom teeth offers many benefits, including:
- Improving the function of your bite: Misaligned bottom teeth affect how you chew and speak. Straightening the bottom row creates an even bit, which makes your mouth more functional.
- Boosting confidence: You’ll feel better knowing that when you smile, both your bottom and top teeth are straight.
- Creating better oral health: Misaligned teeth make it difficult to brush and floss properly. This is the case on both the bottom and top rows of teeth. Although problems on your bottom row might be less noticeable cosmetically, whether or not you can see these problems when it comes to maintaining good oral health.
Talk to Your Dentist or Orthodontist
Bottom braces are a great solution for people who only need treatment on their bottom row of teeth. They are just as effective as a full set of braces for resolving issues that only affect a portion of your mouth.
And while they aren’t the only option for straightening bottom teeth, bottom braces are one of your most affordable and effective pathways to a smile you love. Contact us to learn more about whether you’re a good candidate for bottom braces.
