You may often hear your orthodontist refer to treatments as being two-phase. These types of treatment programs are beneficial to children, ensuring that they have a healthy bite and smile in the future.
What are two-phase treatments?
Two-phase treatments are typically used in order to correct a child’s bite or teeth before receiving a second treatment. This early treatment will help make room for other teeth, reduce dental issues later in life, as well as increase the benefits of a second phase treatment.
- Phase One Treatments: During this phase, treatments typically take place when children are younger, around the age of 8. The goal of this phase is to correct teeth crowding issues and bite issues, such as crossbites and underbites.
- Phase Two Treatments: During this phase, treatments will typically occur around the age of 11. The goal of this phase is to permanently correct teeth and bite issues with the use of braces.
Does my child need a two-phase treatment?
Two-phase treatments are not for every child, depending on their particular teeth and bite issues. Examples of these include the following:
- The loss of baby teeth at an early age
- Prolonged thumb sucking, usually after the age of five
- Crowded teeth, usually around the age of eight
- Teeth that are protruding
- Crossbite, or when the teeth do not come together when closing the mouth
- Issues biting or chewing
If you feel that your child is experiencing one of the above issues, be sure to contact your orthodontist for a consultation and to determine if your child qualifies for a two-phase treatment.
Beauty Smile Orthodontics specializes in braces and orthodontic treatments for adults and children alike. Contact us to get started on a brighter smile for a brighter future.