What is Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is the process that we typically complete before all of their adult teeth have erupted. It revolves around two concepts. The first phase of treatment begins when a child still has most of their primary teeth. The second phase occurs when the child has developed most adult teeth.
By correcting certain types of orthodontic problems before all permanent teeth develop, we can help our patients achieve facial balance and harmony, improving their dental function and bite. It can often reduce the chance of needing future orthodontic treatment. This two-phase orthodontic treatment process is one of the orthodontic services Dr. Wayne L. Sankey provides to patients in his Flower Mound, Texas office.
Treatment usually begins around the ages of 8 to 10 while the permanent teeth are still developing. Most patients still have some of their baby teeth and are developing their permanent teeth. Most orthodontists only recommend two-phase treatment when a child has a jaw or dental development issue that will likely worsen as they grow.
The goal of two-phase orthodontic treatment is to accomplish these three qualities:
- Corrects the orthodontic issue at hand
- Prevent future orthodontic issues
- Correct and rebalance the patient’s oral development to minimize the risk of future dental issues
Who Needs Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?
Dr. Sankey and our team at Flower Mound Orthodontics work with children individually to develop treatment plans that are right for them. We take a conservative approach to orthodontic care and only recommend treatment when necessary. After your child completes their orthodontic evaluation, we will discuss their results and determine if treatment is needed.
The first phase of treatment is suggested to prevent a problem from developing, address a developing problem, and help guide jaw bone growth. Dr. Sankey will recommend first-phase treatment if your child’s orthodontic problem will create an imbalance between your teeth, gums, face, and jaw.
We may suggest two-phase treatment to correct these types of orthodontic issues:
- Underbites
- Overcrowding
- The spacing of the teeth
- Dental or skeletal asymmetries
- Open bites
- Crossbites
- Overlapping teeth or deep bites
- Jaw growth issues or jaws that are not in proportion to each other
- Protruding teeth
- Poor oral habits, such as extended thumb-sucking, bottling, or extensive pacifier use
- Clefts
Some patients will need to undergo the second phase of orthodontic treatment, which often requires traditional braces; however, in some cases, phase two can be completed with Invisalign. Phase two treatment helps improve the tooth and jaw alignment that began during the first phase of treatment.
Two-Phase Treatment FAQs
The two-phase orthodontic treatment can be confusing. Many of our patients and parents have many questions about how it works. Read through our frequently asked questions to learn more about how it works. Contact us or book a consultation today if you have further questions or concerns.
How can two-phase orthodontic treatment benefit my child?
Children grow rapidly in their developmental stages. Early-phase orthodontic treatment focuses on the early development stages of a child’s growth by utilizing appliances designed to direct the growth of the lower and upper jaw.
By establishing a stable dental foundation, we can create a suitable environment with enough room for the permanent teeth to erupt properly. In some cases, two-phase orthodontic treatment can prevent the need to remove permanent teeth due to overcrowding and may also prevent oral surgery.
What happens if I put off orthodontic treatment?
Our team offers conservative solutions for many orthodontic needs at Flower Mound Orthodontics. Dr. Sankey will examine your child’s teeth and jaw to determine if early orthodontic treatment is needed. For some patients, it is beneficial to undergo early-stage orthodontic treatment.
When certain orthodontic issues are left untreated, it can result in a more complex one, which may require advanced treatment.
How will I know if two-phase treatment is right for my child?
At Flower Mound Orthodontics, we believe orthodontics is not a one-size-fits-all industry. As one of the leading orthodontists in Flower Mound, TX, Dr. Sankey understands the importance of conservative, personalized orthodontic care.
Our team works with each of our patients individually to better understand their needs and build personalized solutions that are right for them.
What is Phase One Orthodontic Treatment?
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment is a treatment that is done before a patient’s permanent teeth come in. This typically occurs between the ages of 6 and 10.
What is the second phase of braces?
We typically implement Phase Two of braces once a patient’s full permanent teeth have come in. Phase two treatment aligns teeth into their proper place for optimal function and appearance, giving patients their desired smile.
How many phases of braces are there?
Braces typically come in two to three phases. Patients’ mouths responses vary greatly, so it is hard to gauge how many phases of treatment a patient will have. Orthodontic treatment typically lasts between six to twenty-four months.
Will my child need braces again later in life after two-phase treatment?
The two-phase orthodontic treatment can address many issues. However, it does not guarantee whether or not your child will need further treatment. It has been proven to reduce the chances of it. The need for further treatment depends on several individual factors and changes that can occur after your child grows.
Can I skip the first phase and start with the second?
In most cases, we don’t advise skipping the first phase. The first phase of a two-phase orthodontic treatment is to address specific issues. If we don’t address them, it could potentially complicate the second phase. However, your orthodontist will know what is best for your unique case and will ensure you get on the right treatment path.
Will my child still need to wear a retainer after two-phase treatment?
Yes, even after a two-phase treatment, a retainer is necessary. The purpose of retainers is to maintain the achieved results and prevent teeth shifting. No matter what type of orthodontic treatment a patient receives, a retainer will likely need to be worn for long-term success.
Schedule A Consultation for Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment in Flower Mound, TX
Visit our Flower Mound area orthodontics office for the care you need. If your child needs two-phase treatment or needs a second opinion, visit Flower Mound Orthodontics for a consultation. To schedule an appointment, call 972.833.8212 or request a consultation online.