Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment

What is the advantage of two-phase orthodontic treatment?

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that combines tooth straightening, physical and facial changes. The purpose of two-phase treatment is to maximize the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, and aesthetic result that may not be possible if treatment is started at a later time.

What if treatment is put off?

Putting off treatment can result in a need for more invasive treatment later in life that may not completely fix your child's smile.  If indicated, early treatment is most effective for achieving lasting results.

Phase One

A Foundation for a Lifetime of Beautiful Smiles

The goal of Phase One treatment, if recommended, is to achieve the best final orthodontic result. Children often exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop. An upper jaw that is growing too much or is too narrow can be recognized at an early age. If children are found to have this jaw discrepancy, they are candidates for early orthodontic treatment. Also, if children have crowded front teeth, early treatment can prevent the need to extract permanent teeth later.  Receiving early treatment can yield more ideal final treatment results and may avoid the need for surgical procedures.

Resting Period

In this phase, appliances are removed and the remaining permanent teeth are left alone as they erupt.  If retainers are indicated they are designed to allow the eruption of the permanent teeth, but hold the corrections achieved in Phase One  orthodontic treatment.  A successful first phase will have created room for permanent teeth to find an eruption path. Otherwise, they may become impacted or severely displaced.

At the end of the first phase of treatment, teeth are not in their final positions. This will be determined and accomplished in the second phase of treatment. Periodic  appointments for monitoring the eruption of permanent teeth are necessary.

Phase Two

Stay healthy and look attractive

The second phase of orthodontic treatment usually begins when all permanent teeth have erupted. The goal of the second phase is to make sure each tooth has an exact location in the mouth where it is in harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue, and other teeth. When this equilibrium is established, the teeth will function together properly. Phase Two usually involves full upper and lower braces or Invisalign treatment.

Retainers are worn after this phase to ensure your child retains his or her beautiful smile.