Early dental care is essential to your child’s dental development. Their jaw and palate develop according to their tooth placement as their teeth grow. Two-phase orthodontic treatment in our Mt. Airy, MD, dental office helps create straight, healthy smiles. Crooked teeth early in life can impact how your child speaks, bites, and eats. Misalignment can also contribute to future dental problems, including bite disorders that lead to headaches and teeth grinding.
6 Facts About Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment Patients Should Know
Before your child receives two=phase treatment, you should know the ins and outs of this treatment:
1. Not All Children Need this Treatment
Problems that eventually need orthodontic attention can become obvious long before a child has all their permanent teeth. Depending on the type of problem a child has, an AAO orthodontist may recommend two-phase treatment.
It means treatment is done at two different times, often to take advantage of predictable stages of dental development and physical growth. Two-phase treatment is just one of the orthodontic services we provide to the public in Mt Airy, Maryland. Here are six things parents should know about two-phase orthodontic treatment.
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is for kids but not for all kids. Most orthodontic problems can be treated in one phase of comprehensive treatment. However, there are a few exceptions
2. Two-Phase Treatment Has Many Uses
Two-phase orthodontic treatment can help the jaw develop. This ensures enough space for all permanent teeth, especially the canines. Treatment may also reduce the need to pull permanent teeth in the future.
Some problems that can be treated well in a growing child may require corrective surgery if treatment occurs after growth.
Two-phase treatment can normalize the relationship of the upper jaw to the lower jaw. This is the case if your child has an underbite. Treatment can prevent a child’s prolonged sucking or abnormal swallowing.
Damaging pressure can move teeth in the wrong direction. This changes the shape of the bone that supports teeth. Tucking in upper front teeth that stick out can reduce the risk of those teeth being broken or knocked out.
3. We Don’t Move Baby Teeth For Their Appearance
The baby teeth can move during Phase I orthodontic treatment. However, their movement is part of the process to ensure sufficient space for permanent teeth, not esthetic alignment.
4. Treatment Begins with Baby Teeth
Phase One of a two-phase orthodontic treatment begins when a child still has some baby teeth. An appliance used in Phase One care could be a form of braces, another fixed appliance, or a removable appliance. The type of appliance used depends on the needs of the individual patient. Some children may need to have baby teeth removed to clear a path for the permanent teeth to come.
5. There is Time Between Treatments
A resting period often follows Phase One orthodontic treatment. It will take time for your child’s permanent teeth to emerge.
6. Phase Two Requires Permanent Teeth
Phase Two of orthodontic treatment usually begins when most permanent teeth grow. This phase aims to ensure teeth are in their proper places for good function, a healthy bite, and a pleasing appearance. Two-phase treatment can give your child the best chance at a healthy, beautiful smile.
Follow the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) ‘s recommendation that all children have their first check-up with an AAO orthodontist no later than age 7.
If your child develops a problem, the orthodontist can monitor growth and development. This helps your child have the most appropriate treatment at the most appropriate time.
Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment FAQs
Learn more about two-phase orthodontic treatment in our Tulsa, OK office with answers to these common questions:
What is two-phase orthodontic treatment?
The two-phase orthodontic treatment involves two different orthodontic treatment stages. We commonly use this approach in children with significant orthodontic issues.
Phase 1 is called the interceptive treatment. This phase usually occurs between 6 and 10. Phase 2 is called the comprehensive treatment. It can happen during the teenage years when most of their permanent teeth have erupted.
Why is two-phase treatment recommended for some children?
The two-phase treatment is for children who suffer from significant orthodontic problems. Early intervention helps guide proper growth and development during the first phase of treatment. It addresses jaw growth, crowding, crossbites, or bad habits. Then, phase 2 will focus on achieving the final bite alignment.
How long does each phase of treatment last?
The length of each phase depends on the child’s specific needs. It also depends on the complexity of their orthodontic concerns. Phase 1 treatment is typically shorter. They can last from 6 to 18 months. Phase 2 treatment lasts anywhere from 12 to 24 months and sometimes longer.
Are all children candidates for two-phase orthodontic treatment?
No, not every child will require two-phase orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist will determine if they need it during a consultation. A consult usually takes place by the age of 7. By this time, you should know if your child will require this type of treatment or not. The need for this treatment is determined individually after a thorough exam.
Will my child need braces during both phases of treatment?
There are different appliances and treatments your orthodontist can use during each phase. The type of appliance your child needs is based on their particular case. Phase 1 treatment may involve using braces, expanders, or headgear. Phase 2 treatment often involves using braces. However, your child may be able to use clear aligners as well.
How do I know if my child needs two-phase orthodontic treatment?
During a thorough exam, your orthodontist will evaluate your child’s oral health, dental development, and bite alignment. After this, they will be able to suggest whether or not a two-phase treatment is right for your child.
Schedule a Dental Appointment
Help your child’s dental development with orthodontic care today. Call (301) 781-5337 for two-phase treatment in Mt. Airy, MD. You can also schedule a dental appointment with us online. If you have more questions about orthodontic care for your child, please get in touch with our office. We will help you find the best treatment for your child.