What is Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is the process that is typically completed 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 of their adult teeth.
By correcting certain types of orthodontic problems before all the permanent teeth develop, we can help our patients achieve facial balance and harmony, which in turn can improve their dental function and bite. In many cases, it can reduce the chance of needing future orthodontic treatment. This two-phase orthodontic treatment process is one of the orthodontic services that Dr. Wayne L. Sankey provides to patients in his Flower Mount, 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 in the process of developing their permanent teeth. Most orthodontists only recommend two-phase treatment when a child has a jaw or dental development issue that will likely get worse as they grow.
The goal of two-phase orthodontic treatment is recommended 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 on an individual basis to develop treatment plans that are right for them. We take a conservative approach to orthodontic care and only recommend treatment when deemed 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 is designed to help improve the tooth and jaw alignment that began during the first phase of treatment.
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 that are designed to direct the growth of the lower and upper jaw.
By establishing a stable dental foundation, we are able to create a suitable environment that creates 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 the need for oral surgery.
What happens if I put off orthodontic treatment?
At Flower Mound Orthodontics, our team offers conservative solutions for many orthodontic needs. 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 types of orthodontic issues are left untreated, it can result in a more complex orthodontic issue, 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 on an individual basis 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 prior to a patient’s permanent teeth coming in. This typically occurs between the ages of 6 and 10.
What is the Second Phase of Braces?
Phase Two of braces are typically implemented 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.
Schedule A Dental Exam & Consultation Today
Visit our Flower Mound area orthodontics office for the care you need. If your child is in need of two-phase treatment or in need of a second opinion, visit Flower Mound Orthodontics for a consultation. To schedule an appointment, call 972.833.8212 or request an appointment online.