This orthodontic treatment done in two phases. The goal of phase one is to maximize the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, and aesthetic result that will remain stable throughout your child’s life.
Phase One
The goal of treatment phase one is to help the jaws to develop in a way to accommodate permanent teeth and improve the way the upper and lower jaws fit together. Phase 1 may prevent the removal of permanent teeth later in life, or the need for surgical procedures to realign the jaws. Children often show early signs of jaw problems. Children significantly benefit from early-phase treatment. In this phase, braces may be placed on a few teeth or other appliances such was expanders might be needed. Planning now can save your child’s smile later!
Resting Period
In this phase, the permanent teeth are left alone as they erupt. Retaining devices may or may not be needed. 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. Selective removal of certain baby teeth may be needed to aid in eruption during this resting phase. Therefore, periodic recall appointments for observation are necessary, usually on a six-month basis.
Phase Two
The goal of this phase is to place each tooth in harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue, and other teeth to ensure optimal function. 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 your child retains his or her beautiful smile.
“What if treatment is put off?”
This might result in more invasive treatment later in life that may not completely fix your child’s smile.
