What Is Smile Arc?
The smile arc is defined by the relationship between the curvature of your upper front teeth and the curvature of your lower lip when you smile. In an ideal smile, the arch of the teeth follows the arch of the lip, creating a natural, harmonious look that feels effortless rather than manufactured.
This relationship has a meaningful effect on how youthful and balanced a smile appears. As we age, the lips gradually shift downward, and we show less of our upper teeth over time. By designing smiles with this in mind from the start, we can create results that look exceptional for decades to come.
Why Are My Brackets Placed So High?
Patients often ask why their brackets are placed closer to the gumline on the front teeth rather than centered on the tooth. The answer is intentional precision.
Proper bracket placement is one of the most important variables in achieving a correct smile arc. By positioning brackets higher on the front teeth, we are able to control the curvature of the incisal edges, align the contact points between teeth, and ensure the final result achieves the facial balance and lip harmony that defines a truly beautiful smile.
Every bracket placement at Marin Ortho is guided by Smile Arc Esthetics principles, for every patient, every time.
The Clinical Benefits of Smile Arc Treatment
Smile Arc Esthetics is about both beauty and function. Benefits include:
- A more youthful, harmonious smile that ages well
- Better control of the axial inclination of each tooth
- Improved alignment of contact points between teeth
- Enhanced facial balance and lip harmony
- Better long-term function alongside exceptional esthetics
Available With Braces or Invisalign
Smile Arc treatment is achievable with either braces or Invisalign in the hands of an experienced provider. At Marin Ortho, we apply these principles regardless of which appliance you choose, ensuring that the esthetic outcome is always at the center of your treatment plan.
For adult patients whose smile arc has shifted over time, Invisalign can be used to improve and restore a more youthful arc, even outside of comprehensive orthodontic treatment.
Using Temporary Anchors for Facial Balance
In select cases, temporary anchorage devices help us achieve levels of tooth movement and facial balance that traditional mechanics alone are unable to. These small, minimally invasive anchors give us precise control over tooth position and allow us to achieve outcomes that make a meaningful difference in the overall harmony of a patient’s smile and face.
"I am still in awe when I look in the mirror every day. Such a transformation. I love my new smile."
Real Results From Our Patients
Every smile below belongs to an adult treated at Marin Ortho. These are real patients, real timelines, and real results achieved with braces as part of a personalized treatment plan.
Results vary by patient. Treatment length depends on the complexity of the case and the patient's anatomy and goals. Your personalized timeline will be discussed at your complimentary consultation.
