Two-phase treatment maximizes the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, and aesthetic result. Two-phase orthodontic treatment involves a first phase of treatment, generally between the ages of seven to ten, to help improve issues such as growth disparities between the jaws, severe crowding, breathing problems potentially associated with narrow jaws, and severe protrusion. Digit habits such as thumb sucking that are still present at this age are also addressed at this time.
The goal of this first phase is to make the future comprehensive orthodontic treatment (the second phase) simpler and more comfortable for the patient. A successful first phase will have created room for permanent teeth to find an eruption path. Otherwise, they may become impacted or severely displaced.
The second phase occurs once the remaining baby teeth have fallen out, generally between the ages of 11 and 14. It usually involves braces or Invisalign® clear aligners to straighten the teeth. Retainers are worn after this phase to ensure your child retains his or her beautiful smile.
Why is two-phase treatment necessary?
The advantages to two-phase orthodontic treatment are the improvement or elimination of severe problems at a younger age while making future treatment more comfortable. Two-phase treatment may reduce the need for the removal of permanent teeth in the future (this does not take into consideration the third molars).
If orthodontic treatment is delayed, the correction of some problems will be limited due to reduced or no remaining growth potential of the jaws.
Drs. Bonebreak will determine if your child is a candidate for two-phase treatment after evaluating his or her bite and assessing for growth disparities, habits, breathing issues, and crowding. If any of these issues are present and we feel that two-phase treatment will be beneficial, we will review the recommended treatment during your initial consultation at our Clarksville or Fulton orthodontic office.
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