Two-Phase Orthodontics: Early Treatment Advantages

Phase I Treatment:

 The goal of Phase I treatment is to develop the jaw size in order to accommodate all the permanent teeth and to align the upper and lower jaws to each other.Children often exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop. An upper or lower jaw that is growing too much or not enough can be recognized at an early stage. If children after age 7 are found to have this jaw discrepancy, they are candidates for early orthodontic treatment. Because they are growing rapidly, children can benefit from an early phase of orthodontic treatment utilizing appliances that direct the growth of the upper and lower jaws. Thus, a good foundation can be established, providing adequate room for all permanent teeth to correct overcrowding. Leaving such a condition untreated until all permanent teeth erupt could result in a jaw discrepancy too severe to achieve an ideal result with braces                

 Resting Period: In this phase, the remaining permanent teeth are allowed to erupt. In some cases, the teeth may erupt into their ideal position after Phase I, and additional treatment would not be necessary. In other cases the teeth do not erupt into an ideal position and Phase II orthodontic treatment is necessary for cosmetic and functional reasons. We do not charge for recall visits in the interim between first and second phase treatments. 

 Phase II Treatment  (Braces): 

The second phase is initiated when all permanent teeth have erupted, and usually requires braces on all the teeth for an average of 18-24 months. Retainers are worn after this phase.

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, and of course be more healthy and attractive. This is the goal for the second and final phase of treatment. The second phase is initiated when all permanent teeth have erupted, and usually requires braces on all the teeth for an average of 18-24 months. Retainers are worn after this phase.

 Advantages of Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment:Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that addresses tooth crowding, jaw alignment, and space creation.  The major advantage of a two-phase treatment is the quality of the result. With it we maximize the patients growth potential for the benefit of the teeth and bite alignment.     

Thomas F Hall, DDS, MS, PA

www.braceshouston.com