Phase 1 & 2 Orthodontics
Phase 1 & 2 Orthodontics
Two Phases of Orthodontic Treatment:
Orthodontic treatment in the right phase plays a large role in the amount of orthodontic work your child may need now and in the future. Because children’s teeth are constantly shifting and growing, examinations and treatments in both phases of orthodontic treatment may be necessary to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.
Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment
Phase 1 of orthodontic treatment begins when the teeth and jaw are still in the growth stage, often for patients under age 9 or in mixed dentition stage.
We will be able to tell if a jaw is growing too much or is too narrow and if early orthodontic treatment is necessary. Early treatment can prevent the need for later jaw surgery, orthodontic treatment and/or permanent teeth extraction.
Orthodontic problems left untreated until Phase 2 can be more difficult to resolve. For more on this, check out our article on the benefits of early orthodontic treatment.
Don’t delay — schedule your child’s first orthodontic treatment as soon as possible.
Phase 2 Orthodontic Treatment
Once permanent teeth have erupted and the jaw has set, it may be necessary to begin Phase 2 of orthodontic treatment. Phase 2 involves making sure each tooth is in its proper location in the mouth and that the mouth functions properly. At the beginning of Phase 2, new orthodontic records will be taken to examine the condition of the jaw and permanent teeth. Unaligned teeth are most commonly corrected with full braces on the upper and lower teeth. Braces are worn on the teeth for an average of 24 months. Phase 2 treatment may include:
• Full Braces
• Oral Surgery (for impacted teeth)
• Permanent Teeth Extraction
• Invisalign®
Serious orthodontic problems that were not caught at an early age may require additional treatment including surgery or permanent teeth extraction. If this is the case, we will go over all your treatment options in a thorough and easy-to-understand manner so you can feel confident in determining the best plan of action to meet your needs.
We are experts in the orthodontic field and work with the highest standard of care. You can trust you are in good hands.
We are excited to meet you!
