Two-Phase Treatment

What is the advantage of two-phase orthodontic treatment?

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process combining tooth straightening with physical, facial changes. Two-phase treatment works to ensure that patients can achieve the ideal bite that is healthy and functional, while also providing the most aesthetically pleasing result.

What if I put off treatment?

Putting off treatment can result in the need for more invasive treatment later in life that may not completely correct your issue. Early treatment is most effective for achieving lasting results.

Phase — One

Creating a foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles

The goal of Phase-One treatment is to help the jaw develop in a way that will accommodate all of the permanent teeth and improve the way the upper and lower jaws fit together. If a child presents with a jaw discrepancy after the age of six, he or she may be a candidate for early treatment. Likewise, crowded front teeth after the age of eight may also indicate the need for treatment. Treatment at this time can prevent the need for extractions later.

• Planning now can save your smile later

Early treatment may prevent the extraction of permanent teeth or the need for surgical procedures to realign the jaws later in life.

• Making records to determine your unique treatment

Orthodontic records will be necessary to determine the type of appliances to be used, the duration of treatment time, and the frequency of visits. Records consist of models of the teeth, X-rays, and photographs. During your child’s initial consultation, your doctor will take records to determine if early treatment is recommended.

• Creating an ideal environment

The goal of the first phase of treatment is to guide the growth of the jaw to ensure the permanent teeth have adequate space. We can address issues such as underbites, overbites, and crossbites. Phase one can last between nine and 19 months.

Resting period

In this phase, the remaining permanent teeth are left alone as they erupt. Retaining devices may not be recommended if they would interfere with eruption. It is best to allow the existing permanent teeth some freedom of movement. A successful first phase will have created room for permanent teeth to find an eruption path. Otherwise, they may become impacted or severely displaced.

• Monitoring your teeth’s progress

At the end of the first phase of treatment, teeth are not in their final positions. This will be accomplished in the second phase of treatment. Selective removal of certain primary (baby) teeth may be in the best interest of enhancing eruption during this resting phase. Therefore, periodic recall appointments for observation are necessary, usually on a six-month basis.

Phase — Two

Ensuring a healthy, beautiful smile

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.

At the beginning of the first phase, orthodontic records were made and a diagnosis and treatment plan established. Certain types of appliances were used in the first phase to correct and realign the teeth and jaw. The second phase begins when all permanent teeth have erupted, and usually requires braces on all the teeth for an average of 24 months. Retainers are worn after this phase to ensure you retain your beautiful smile.