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DECEMBER 19, 2023
Did you know that braces aren’t always completed in one single treatment? Sometimes, we take other steps to ensure that the application of a full set of braces is a seamless experience in a method called two-phase treatment. One Love Orthodontics is committed to ensuring processes like this one are completed safely and effectively for our youngest patients. So, what are the benefits of two-phase treatment? Let’s take a closer look!
Reasons for Treatment
There are various reasons for selecting this process that Dr. Dayan might identify in a pediatric patient. A few common examples include:
- Early loss of primary teeth
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
- Thumb-sucking after age five
- Pacifier use
- Speech issues
- Spacing
- Crowding
When these issues arise, two-phase treatment might just be the way to go! This method can be preventative or interceptive in children.
Phase One
The initial phase, often referred to as early interceptive treatment, takes place between the ages of six and 10 before the eruption of all permanent teeth. The primary objective during this stage is to address concerns related to baby teeth and prevent issues like overcrowding before the application of a complete set of braces. Ultimately, phase one aims to ensure a well-fitted, comfortable arrangement for all permanent teeth. Typically, this phase spans nine to eighteen months.
There are a wide variety of tools Dr. Dayan can choose for phase one based on a patient’s individual needs. Here is a short overview of a few of them:
- Limited Braces
These braces are exactly as the name implies—limited in placement to specific problematic teeth. They are exclusively applied to the front six upper and lower teeth.
- Space Maintainers
These devices actively “maintain” the space left by a missing baby tooth, whether in fixed or removable forms.
- Expansion Appliances
These appliances are designed to widen both the upper teeth and jaw. To achieve palate expansion, a mold of the upper and lower arches is created. The expander is typically worn for a period ranging from six months to a full year.
- Removable Retainer
A personalized device worn to rectify bite issues, the removable retainer is tailored to individual needs.
Resting Period
A resting period is typical between these two stages. During this time, the remaining incoming permanent teeth are left undisturbed as they start to come in. This allows a break for the patient and can involve a space maintainer or retainer to help suspend the process before moving on.
Phase Two
This stage is the one that many people anticipate from the beginning—braces! These familiar devices are affixed to both sets of teeth, typically after the full eruption of most, if not all, permanent teeth. While the primary purpose of braces is to align teeth, they also address jaw issues such as overbites and underbites. The duration of the braces is a crucial factor and varies based on the child’s dental condition, ranging from 12 months to several years. Throughout this period, the patient will make regular visits to our office for ongoing assessment and maintenance of the treatment progress.
Benefits of Two-Phase Treatment
Now that you know more about the options and goals of two-phase treatment, let’s cover some of the advantages of it!
- Improved Self-Esteem and Confidence: While the primary objective of this treatment is focused on dental health, it’s noteworthy that optimal dental well-being often translates to improved mental health. Having a smile that you truly adore can be transformative, and witnessing the gradual shift toward a beautiful, aligned smile holds significant psychological benefits. This is particularly crucial for younger patients, making the wait well worthwhile!
- Prevention of Future Treatment: Tackling these concerns in childhood sets the stage for a more pleasant dental experience in adulthood. Adult dentistry often involves more complexity and challenges, making early intervention highly advantageous. Opting for this treatment approach can potentially prevent the need for extensive procedures such as jaw surgery or the extraction of permanent teeth.
- Less Time Wearing Full Braces: This is a big one! Maintaining braces, especially for children, can be a bit challenging. Preparation in the initial phase makes the second phase significantly more manageable.
Schedule a Consultation with Guymon Orthodontics Today!
If you feel any of this information applies to your child, our Brooklyn office is the perfect destination to find a solution! This manner of treatment has been successful for millions of patients all over the world and can be for you as well, under our expert care. Give us a call at 718-635-9467 to schedule your free consultation!