Dental Arch

A dental arch is a set of teeth, either the bottom row or the top row. The “arch” is the curved shape of the teeth as they align with the structure of the jaw and gums. To refer to the top or bottom row of teeth, dentists will often use the terms “upper arch” or “lower arch.”

The curved structure that creates the arch actually comes from the alveolar bone, which is supported by the gums. The arched shape ensures a correct bite, which naturally places the upper arch slightly in front of the lower arch when the mouth is closed.

Each arch consists of ten teeth, including four molars, four incisors, and two canines. A full arch replacement or full arch restoration refers to when a patient needs the entire upper or lower arch replaced with a prosthesis. These patients often need accompanying treatments for gum damage or bone degradation due to the jaw’s lack of support and nourishment from the missing teeth.