What is Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a method that includes two separate treatment stages: one during childhood and another during adolescence. The first stage takes place while the patient still has a mix of baby and adult teeth.
This typically occurs between the ages of 7 to 11 years. A second, more comprehensive phase is conducted around ages 12 to 13, once all the permanent teeth have erupted.
What Are the Benefits of Two-Phase Treatment?
Many patients see significant advantages from undergoing two separate treatment phases. The initial phase of treatment can help prevent more severe dental issues in the future, possibly reducing the need for more complex procedures later on. For example, our orthodontists can create space for a tooth that might otherwise be blocked, avoiding the need for extraction. Additionally, issues such as underdevelopment of the lower jaw can be addressed and guided to full growth, reducing the likelihood of requiring surgery later on.
Why Beaumont Orthodontics
Phase One
Laying the Groundwork for a Lifetime of Radiant Smiles
Phase-One treatment focuses on guiding your child’s jaw development to ensure there is enough room for all permanent teeth and to improve the alignment of the upper and lower jaws. Many children show early signs of jaw issues as they grow. An orthodontist can spot issues like an overgrown or narrow upper jaw at an early age. If children over the age of six have this type of jaw misalignment, they may benefit from early orthodontic treatment. Additionally, children around the age of eight with crowded front teeth can avoid future tooth extractions with early intervention.
Early Planning Can Protect Your Child’s Smile for the Future
Early-phase treatment in children offers significant advantages, such as preventing the need for permanent teeth extractions later in life or avoiding the necessity for surgery to realign the jaws.
Creating Records to Tailor Your Child’s Treatment
Orthodontic records, including models, X-rays, and photographs, are crucial in determining the appropriate appliances, treatment duration, and visit frequency. During your child’s initial consultation, our orthodontic team will collect these records to assess whether early treatment is needed.
Rest Period Between Phases
During the break between phases, the remaining permanent teeth are allowed to emerge naturally. Retainers may be provided to ensure the eruption process isn't disrupted, allowing for some flexibility in tooth movement. A successful first phase will create space for the permanent teeth to come in correctly. Without this space, the teeth could become impacted or misaligned.
Tracking Your Child’s Progress
Regular check-up appointments, typically every six months, are important to monitor the progress of treatment. At the end of the first phase, teeth may not yet be in their final positions, which will be addressed in the second phase. In some cases, removing select primary (baby) teeth may help facilitate proper eruption during the resting phase.
Phase Two
Achieve Health and Aesthetic Appeal
The aim of Phase-Two orthodontic treatment is to bring the teeth into full alignment, ensuring they function in perfect harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue, and other teeth. This phase typically involves the use of full upper and lower braces or Invisalign.
At the start of Phase-One treatment, orthodontic records are taken, and a diagnosis and treatment plan are created. The first phase uses various appliances to realign the teeth and jaws. Phase-Two commences once all permanent teeth have fully erupted and typically involves the use of braces or Invisalign on all teeth for an average of 18-24 months. After this phase, retainers must be worn to preserve your child's beautiful smile.