Where?
One tooth row in each jaw.
← All explanationsDental arch
What are the upper and lower dental arches?
A dental arch is the curved arrangement of teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Its form and width vary between people. Available space also depends on tooth size and position.
For training & practice ↓
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Two rows of teeth
Upper and lower arches meet when biting. Their shapes need to be considered together with their contacts.
Space is a relationship
Larger teeth need more room. An arch that looks narrow does not by itself establish a need for expansion.
Arch is not wire
The natural dental arch and the archwire of fixed braces have similar names but are different things.
Read the full explanation
Two rows of teeth
Upper and lower arches meet when biting. Their shapes need to be considered together with their contacts.
Space is a relationship
Larger teeth need more room. An arch that looks narrow does not by itself establish a need for expansion.
Arch is not wire
The natural dental arch and the archwire of fixed braces have similar names but are different things.
Notes on the teaching images
- Teaching model: upper and lower dental arches are considered together.
- Example lower dental arch; shape alone does not explain crowding.
- The dental arch describes the natural arrangement of teeth, not an orthodontic wire.
At a glance
What affects space?
Arch dimensions, tooth size and position.
All alike?
No; natural variation is usual.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
Three steps. No audio.
Each scene can also be selected manually.
Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.
Often confused
Shape and treatment need
A particular arch shape is not a disease or proof that correction is needed.
Quick answers
Are all arches the same shape?
No. Individual variation is normal and matters in planning.
Can I widen my arch myself?
Attempts using pressure, elastics or unassessed devices can cause harm. Changes need professional planning.
Does a scan show that I need aligners?
A scan records shape. It does not replace examination of the teeth, gums and bite.
At the practice
For a personal discussion
Editorially suggested question to discuss with Dr Niusha Barahmand Pour:
How do my tooth sizes, arches and bite fit together?
Troubled by crowding or gaps? Space and bite need to be assessed together.
Discuss tooth positionAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Dental arch
- Arrangement of the teeth in one jaw.
- Arch length
- A measure used when assessing available space.
- Tooth widths
- The space required by individual teeth.
Make the distinction
A particular arch shape is not a disease or proof that correction is needed.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.