What to Expect from Phase 1 Treatment

The American Academy of Orthodontics states that children should receive an evaluation by age seven. During this evaluation, the dental team may take measurements or make impressions. They also examine the child’s bite and check for misalignment. Next, they will develop a treatment plan.

If the child has lost their baby teeth early, the team may recommend a space maintainer. These appliances help prevent crowding. In addition, they can help the child’s adult teeth shift into the right position. The team might also suggest a palate expander to widen the child’s jaw. Expanders create extra space for adult teeth. Sometimes, expanders also help fix a bite problem.

Phase 1 treatments usually will not involve braces, and dental providers may delay braces until the child has all their adult teeth. But if a child has a significant dental issue, the team may recommend braces right away. In addition, early braces might help shorten the next stage of orthodontic treatment.

Treatment Timeline

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should see an orthodontist by age 7. Phase 1 orthodontics typically begins around age 6 and up to age 9. This treatment phase may last between nine and 18 months, depending on the severity and specifics of the child’s bite or teeth alignment problems.

Moving Onto Phase 2 of Treatment

After completing phase 1, the next step is phase 2 orthodontic treatment. Desert Dream Dentistry & Spa carefully evaluates each patient’s progress during phase 1 before transitioning to the next step. Here is what happens during phase 2 of an early orthodontic treatment plan:

• Resting. Some patients may need to enter a resting phase before starting phase 2. During this step, the patient may need to only wear a retainer and have monitoring appointments. When the teeth are in the resting stage, the orthodontist will not place new dental appliances or braces.
• Straightening. Then, the child is ready for braces. Our staff places the wires, bands, and brackets onto the child’s teeth during an appointment. This stage may take between 12 and 24 months.
• Monitoring. Throughout the phase 2 treatment, the patient must come in for regular monitoring appointments. During an appointment, the dental provider will check the patient’s progress and may make adjustments. Once treatment is done, the orthodontist may recommend wearing a retainer to keep the teeth in alignment.

When to Seek Care for Early Orthodontic Problems

Parents should seek an evaluation right away if their child develops dental problems. The sooner the child receives treatment, the better. Early orthodontic care can shorten treatment times and improve a child’s oral health. Delaying treatment could result in long-lasting dental problems.

Preventive care is an important part of any orthodontic plan. Parents should make sure to keep up with exams and cleanings, and reach out for help if their child develops tooth pain. The dental team can offer guidance, support, and intervention.