Knowing the function of the teeth in the upper and lower arches is crucial to having a healthy, well-aligned smile.
Your dental structure is based on these two arches, which affect how you bite, eat, and talk, in addition to how your teeth look.
Any changes in the arches’ alignment may result in malocclusions, which might be problematic and cause both functional and aesthetic issues.
This article will explain what upper and lower arch teeth are, the typical problems that arise from malocclusions, the potential treatments, and how replacing your teeth may help your smile become balanced and effective again.
Table of Contents
What Are Upper and Lower Arch Teeth?
The curving structure that houses your teeth is called your dental arch, and it is made up of the alveolar bone and supporting gum. Your bite will be in the right shape and position with the top teeth slightly ahead of the lower teeth, thanks to this arched arrangement.
The two types of dental arches you have are the upper (also known as maxillary) and lower (also known as mandibular). The upper and lower arch teeth for an adult have an average of 32 permanent teeth, which are divided into 16 teeth for each arch.
What is Malocclusion?
A malocclusion happens when your upper and lower teeth do not fit or align correctly in your bite. There are three categories of malocclusions:
- This is the most common type of malocclusion and refers to the situation where your upper and lower teeth overlap.
- When your upper teeth and bite greatly overlap your lower teeth, it’s referred to as an overbite.
- Also referred to as an underbite, this condition is characterized by your lower teeth overlapping your upper teeth due to their forward positioning.
There are several reasons for malocclusions, such as:
- The most frequent cause is genetics passed down from your parents.
- Developmental issues, such as cleft lip and palate.
- Thrusting and thumb sucking, or excessive usage of a pacifier or bottle.
- Appliances and dental restorations that don’t fit well.
- Injury to the mouth or jaw.
- Other medical problems.
Malocclusions Complications
Most malocclusion cases do not cause any problems except for their irregular shape, which can be irritating and lower self-esteem.
However, a malocclusion can lead to the following additional issues:
- Tooth loss, gum disease, or cavities.
- Erosion of the enamel on your teeth.
- Experiencing trouble with speaking and eating.
- Issues with your jaw.
Being proactive and addressing any concerns before they worsen is a wise decision, as malocclusions are linked to the development of other disorders. We recommend visiting your dentist at least twice a year for a check-up and to detect symptoms early.
Malocclusions Treatment
The dental specialty of orthodontics helps correct malocclusions, or issues with alignment and bite. Braces or other orthodontic devices that straighten teeth and enhance your bite are common treatments.
The best course of action is to get guidance from a dentist or orthodontist if you believe you may have a problem with your bite or dental arch.
There isn’t a single treatment for malocclusions because they can happen for a variety of reasons. However, you will be treated based on:
- Your overall health.
- How you would want your smile to look.
- Your financial plan.
- Any potential risks or problems you might have.
Upper and Lower Arch Replacement
A prosthetic bridge that is positioned on four, five, six, seven, or eight implants is called a full arch replacement. A Full Arch Replacement, often known as All-on-Four®, requires a minimum of four implants to support it.
When the entire upper or lower jaw is modified, the result is utterly transformative.
A full arch replacement can repair the jaw’s structural integrity and produce excellent long-term outcomes when an excessive number of teeth are missing or decaying.
This kind of operation is known by the brand name All-on-X, which indicates that a certain number of implants are used to secure the prosthetic bridge.
The benefit of this approach is that not all of the bridge’s teeth need artificial roots.
The bridge can fit into the patient’s jawbone firmly with a tailored number of dental implants, reducing the possibility of movement.
Upper and Lower Arch Teeth At Davinci Dental Clinic
At Davinci Dental Clinic, we are aware that a correctly aligned bite and dental arch are critical elements to your oral health.
This is why our dentists are qualified to help you with orthodontic treatment if you suffer from malocclusion or have any condition that affects your arch.
We can also help you learn about this part and the possible associated problems, so you’ll be able to make the right decision.
Read More: Full Arch In Abu Dhabi.
Conclusion
Maintaining the beauty and health of your smile requires an understanding of the function of the teeth in your upper and lower arches.
Whether you’re thinking about advanced dental treatments, alignment problems, or tooth loss, speaking with a qualified dentist or orthodontist will help you choose the best course of action.
Your upper and lower arch teeth can remain healthy, strong, and aesthetically pleasing for many years to come with the right care.
Read More: Full Dental Arch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the top and bottom arch of teeth?
Your jaw contains two rows of teeth: the mandibular arch, which is the lower row, and the maxillary arch, which is the upper row. Usually, the top arch is wider than the lower one to allow a healthy bite.
What is the perfect upper teeth arch?
Teeth that are perfectly placed along a smooth curve with no gaps or overlaps make up a perfect upper teeth arch, which is U-shaped and slightly bigger than the lower arch. To avoid cheek biting and to provide a harmonious look, the upper teeth should rest slightly outside the lower teeth in the ideal bite.
What are the hardest teeth to straighten?
The canine teeth, also called cuspids, and molars are usually the toughest teeth to straighten because of their bigger size, longer, stronger roots, and unique location in the jawbone that makes them more resistant to movement.
