Why are upper braces put on before bottom braces? A guide for London patients (Part 1)
20 September 2024
4 min read
Why are upper braces put on before bottom braces?
+ Part 2: Discomfort and sensitivity
WHY DO ORTHODONTISTS FIT ONE ARCH FIRST?
At the start of treatment, it’s common for the orthodontist to start by placing the braces on one arch only.
Keep reading to find out the main reasons for this.
How long will I have to wait between upper and lower brace placements?
The time taken between placing the two braces depends on the needs of the patient.
In some cases, the orthodontist could wait for a month or six weeks.
For other patients, it may be best to wait longer to make sure the first arch has adjusted properly and is functioning correctly.
There are a number of reasons for using the “staged braces” method including:
How staged braces treatment improves patient comfort
This staggered approach can ease the orthodontic patient into the feeling of wearing braces.
It can effectively halve the initial feeling of discomfort and make the period of adjustment more manageable.
Customising braces for effective orthodontic treatment
The two arches may have different requirements.
For example, in some cases the lower arch may be more misaligned or more crowded than the upper arch so more straightening may be required.
Dealing with the most problematic arch at the start of treatment can be the most efficient way to treat the patient.
This approach is especially beneficial for complex cases as it can be easier to fine tune one arch at a time.
For example, in cases that require bite correction, working on a single arch at the beginning of treatment can ensure the best alignment outcome.
WHY IS IT MORE COMMON TO FIT UPPER ARCH BRACES FIRST?
Reasons orthodontists commonly fit the upper arch braces first can include:
+ Aesthetics: Many patients are more bothered about the appearance of their more visible upper teeth. Focusing initially on upper braces gives the aesthetics of the smile a head start.
+ Adaptation and comfort: An upper brace can be less disruptive to eating and speech than the lower arch.
+ Overjet correction: Many cases feature an overjet with upper arch teeth protruding forward. The upper arch first technique means the orthodontist can begin to address this issue right from the start.
