The situation
What was the problem?
The arch was narrow, so the teeth had too little room: they crowded and rotated. A narrow arch affects the width of the smile and how easily the teeth can be cleaned.
Three cases · Orthodontics
Widening a narrow dental arch without extractions
In three patients the dental arch was too narrow, so the teeth were crowded. We gradually widened it with orthodontics, which gave the teeth room. Below you can see all three cases before and after treatment.
Drag left for before, right for after.
The solution
How did we solve it?
We gradually widened the arch with orthodontics, creating room for the teeth, so no healthy tooth had to be removed. In all three cases a retainer holds the result.
The most common fears
What most people ask before treatment
Did it hurt?
The appliance did not hurt. During the widening there was mild pressure for a few days.
Were teeth extracted?
No. We created the room by widening the arch, without extractions.
How long did it take?
Widening the arch usually takes 12 to 18 months, roughly a year to a year and a half. All three finished within that time.
The result
A broader arch, aligned teeth
In the wider arch the teeth stand straight and aligned. The smile became broader and fuller, and the teeth are easier to clean.
Common questions
Can a narrow arch be widened without extractions?
In many cases, yes. Widening the arch creates room for the teeth. Whether an extraction is needed can be told after planning.
Can the arch be widened in adults too?
Yes, orthodontics can be done in adults too. At the consultation we look at the best option for your case.
Next step
Book your first consultation
If you have a similar problem with your teeth, we examine you at the consultation and tell you which treatment could work. The consultation commits you to nothing.