Two-phase orthodontic treatment consists of two separate times when children receive orthodontic treatment. The first phase of treatment is done while children still have many or most of their primary or “baby” teeth. The second phase takes place when children have most or all of their permanent teeth. Braces may or may not be used during the first phase of treatment. Other appliances (the name used for braces or other devices for orthodontic correction) may be used.

Children sometimes exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop. An upper or lower jaw that is growing too much or not enough, or that is too wide, too narrow or crooked can be recognized at an early age. If children over 4 years of age have these jaw discrepancies, they are usually candidates for early orthodontic evaluation and treatment. The goal of this treatment is to create a better environment for your child’s permanent teeth.

The first phase of treatment is initiated to:

• Prevent a problem from developing (preventive treatment)
• Intercept a developing problem (interceptive treatment)
• Guide the growth of the jaw bones that support the teeth (growth modification)

Without this first phase of treatment, your orthodontist has determined that your child’s problem, if left alone, will create an unhealthy environment for the growth and development of your child’s teeth, gums, jaws and face. The treatment will be timed to predictable stages of dental development to provide the greatest potential for improvement and correction of your child’s malocclusion (bad bite).

How do I know two-phase treatment is right for my child?

Orthodontic care is not a “one size fits all” approach. Each patient has a unique problem that requires a unique treatment plan. What is right for one child may not be right for another. The diagnosis of your child’s problem and the treatment plan are the result of study of your child’s mouth and diagnostic records.

How does two-phase treatment benefit my child?

The first phase of treatment benefits patients physically, enabling them to bite or chew more effectively. It may reduce the risk of breaking front teeth that protrude. And for many patients, there is improvement in self-esteem. Younger patients may be more cooperative and follow the orthodontist’s instructions for appliance wear and oral hygiene. And the desired changes that result from the first phase of treatment may contribute to long-term stability, meaning that teeth stay where the orthodontist has moved them. The second phase of treatment moves permanent teeth into their final positions.

Does a child’s growth affect orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment and a child’s growth can complement each other. By timing orthodontic treatment to predictable stages of dental development, the orthodontist may be able to take advantage of your child’s growth and development. Some problems that can be treated quite well in a growing child may require corrective surgery if treated after growth has occurred.

The Goals of Two-Phase Treatment

Your orthodontist has these goals in mind for your child’s treatment:

• A proper relationship between teeth and jaws so that they work correctly
• Correct alignment of the teeth for a beautiful smile
• Positioning of the teeth and jaws for an attractive face and profile

To reach these goals, your child needs to:

• Follow the instructions for appliance wear
• Keep the appliance, teeth and gums clean by brushing and flossing as prescribed
• Keep scheduled appointments with the orthodontist
• Visit the dentist at least every six months
• Avoid food that may damage the appliance
• Maintain a healthy diet

Advantages of two-phase orthodontic/orthopedic treatment:

Two-phase orthodontic/orthopedic treatment is a very specialized process that encompasses jaw and facial changes (orthopedics) and tooth straightening (orthodontics). The emphasis today on living longer, staying healthy and looking attractive requires optimum treatment results. The major advantage of two-phase treatment is to maximize the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, aesthetic and comfortable result that will remain stable.

The disadvantage of waiting for complete eruption of the permanent teeth and having only one phase of treatment is the possibility of a compromised result that may require preventable adult tooth extraction or jaw surgery.

Specialists in Orthodontics

Your orthodontist has the training and clinical experience necessary to diagnose and treat your child’s orthodontic problem. Orthodontists must complete college requirements, graduate from a dental school and successfully complete a minimum of two academic years of study in an orthodontic residency program accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation. Only those who have completed this rigorous education may call themselves orthodontists, and only orthodontists may be members of the American Association of Orthodontists.

We certainly hope this synopsis has helped you understand the two-phase philosophy of orthodontists. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child get an orthodontic evaluation check-up no later than age 7. Please do not hesitate to call an orthodontic specialist to assist you in answering any questions you may have regarding two-phase orthodontic treatment.

Some information provided by the American Association of Orthodontists

For more information, call the office of Dr. Richard L. Ingraham at 361-992-GRIN, or visit www.IngrahamSmiles.com.