Two-phase treatment is an orthodontic technique that utilizes two phases to avoid harsher treatment as children are older. Is your child eligible for this treatment? Dr. Wayne Sankey of Flower Mound Orthodontics, an orthodontist in Flower Mount, TX, explains more.
What is Two-Phase Treatment?
Two-phase treatment is designed to start on patients that usually don’t have all of their adult teeth yet. The first phase occurs then, while the second phase happens when most of the adult teeth have erupted. We do this because there are certain problems that develop as a child’s mouth grows and develops.
When those problems are corrected early-on, it helps to reduce the chances that they’ll need extensive orthodontic treatment in the future. It improves dental function and their bite, making it easier for things like speaking and chewing as they grow. Two-phase treatment is designed for issues with jaw or dental development that will likely get worse as they get older.
Should My Child Get Two-Phase Treatment?
The ideal candidate for two-phase treatment is around 8-10 years old for the first phase. The permanent teeth are developing, but they still have baby teeth as well. Two-phase treatment is recommended if their current orthodontic problem will cause an imbalance with their teeth, gums, face, and jaw.
To determine if your child needs this treatment, Dr. Sankey will schedule an orthodontic evaluation. Experienced in the development of the musculoskeletal system of the face, he’ll only recommend treatment if your child absolutely needs it. Two-phase treatment is designed to prevent a problem, correct a developing one, or to guide the growth of the jawbone.
What Does Two-Phase Treatment Fix?
There are a variety of different conditions that two-phase treatment aims to take care of. These include the following:
- Underbites
- Open bites
- Crossbites
- Deep bites
- Teeth spacing
- Any dental or skeletal asymmetries
- Clefts
- Issues with jaw growth, and jaws that aren’t in proportion to each other
- Issues from poor oral habits, like thumb-sucking or pacifier use
What About the Second Phase?
For some patients, the second phase of two-phase treatment will still be traditional metal braces. Depending on the issue, they still offer the best treatment for more severe dental issues. However, because of starting treatment early, many patients can be treated with Invisalign. This allows them to have a more comfortable second phase and enjoy the benefits clear aligners can provide.
Invisalign allows patients to enjoy a subtler form of tooth straightening. The clear aligners are practically invisible when they’re on. They’re also designed to be taken out to eat, meaning that your child doesn’t have to make dietary changes like they might if they had traditional braces. Treatment is often faster as well.
Two-Phase Treatment at Your Flower Mound, Texas Orthodontist
Are you worried about the development of your child’s jaw and teeth? Call us today or schedule a consultation online.