What is limited orthodontic treatment?
Limited (partial) orthodontic treatment aims to address a specific problem, most often a mild irregularity of the front teeth, rather than comprehensively changing all the teeth and the bite. For example, a single slightly rotated incisor, a small gap, or a slight shift of the front teeth that has appeared because a retainer was not worn after earlier treatment may be considered within this scope.
Because the scope is narrow, treatment time can often be shorter than for comprehensive treatment. However, not every problem that looks “small” is suitable for limited treatment; what decides suitability is the cause of the problem and the overall state of the bite.
Who might it suit?
- People whose back teeth bite together well (molar relationship)
- Those with mild crowding, slight rotation or small gaps in the front teeth; see crowded teeth and gaps between teeth
- Those who have had orthodontic treatment before and whose front teeth have shifted slightly because they did not wear their retainer; see teeth shifting back after orthodontics
- Cases where the position of a single tooth needs adjusting before treatment such as a crown, veneer or implant (this planning is done together with the related treatments)
- People whose teeth and gums are healthy enough, meaning no active decay or untreated gum disease; see preparing for orthodontics
Which methods are used?
In most cases, limited corrections can be planned with clear aligners. In digital planning, only the teeth that need to move are selected; if needed, small attachments or interproximal reduction (IPR) are added to the plan. See what is an attachment? and what is IPR? In some cases, partial fixed braces applied only to the front teeth may also be an option. Clear aligner treatment is usually planned case by case in terms of the number of aligners and duration; rather than thinking in terms of a set package or fixed duration, it is better to discuss the plan specific to your teeth. General information on clear aligner systems: What is Invisalign?
The limits of limited treatment
Limited treatment is not always the easier or more suitable option. The main points to consider are:
- The bite does not change: Limited treatment usually does not aim to change how the back teeth bite. If there is a deep bite, open bite, crossbite or a jaw-related problem, correcting only the front teeth may not be enough or may affect the bite negatively.
- Need for space: Space is needed to line up crowded teeth. Space can be gained by interproximal reduction or by tilting the teeth slightly forward; the amount is limited and not suitable for every case.
- Midline and symmetry: In some cases, correcting a single tooth may not give the expected result for the midline or smile symmetry. See dental midline shift.
- A clear goal: In limited treatment, the goal is to improve a specific problem. It may not be the same as the result comprehensive treatment could achieve; it is important to discuss in advance with your orthodontist which changes can be expected.
At the examination, your orthodontist assesses whether limited treatment is suitable for you or whether comprehensive treatment would make more sense. For what happens at the first visit: first orthodontic examination.
Why does retention matter so much?
Front teeth, especially teeth that have been derotated or uncrowded, can tend to return to their old position after treatment. For this reason, the retention period is an integral part of limited treatment too. Your orthodontist may recommend a fixed retainer, a removable clear retainer or both, and also decides how long and how often to wear it.
- General information on retention: retention treatment
- Retainer types and use: retainer guide
- How long to wear one: how long is a retainer worn?
People who have had orthodontic treatment before and whose teeth have shifted are advised to pay particular attention to their retention routine after the new treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to correct just one tooth?
In some cases it is. However, because moving one tooth can also affect the neighbouring teeth and the bite, suitability is assessed at the examination.
How long does limited treatment take?
The duration depends on how far the teeth need to move and on the treatment method. It can often be shorter than comprehensive treatment; your personal timeline is discussed after planning. See how long does orthodontic treatment take?
I had braces before and my teeth have shifted. Do I need long treatment again?
If the shift is mild, a limited clear aligner treatment may be considered. If the shift is greater or the bite has also changed, a more comprehensive plan may be needed.
Can I skip the retainer once treatment is over?
If a retainer is not worn, the teeth can shift again over time. Your orthodontist decides the wear schedule; see what happens if you don't wear a retainer?
For questions, you can call 0312 911 60 36 or use the form on the contact page.
This page is for general information only; diagnosis and the treatment plan are determined by an examination and your orthodontist's assessment.
