Six Facts You Need to Know About Two-Phase Orthodontics

Six Facts You Need to Know About Two-Phase Orthodontics

Issues that will ultimately need orthodontics in Wellesley MA can become apparent long before a child has all of their permanent teeth. And depending on the type of issue that a child is experiencing, orthodontists may recommend a two-phase treatment plan.

This means that treatment is performed at two different times, often to take advantage of stages of physical growth and dental development. Here are six things parents should know about two-phase orthodontics in Wellesley MA.

1. This form of orthodontic treatment is not for all children. Most orthodontic issues can be treated in one phase of comprehensive treatment, but there are a few exceptions.

2. This comprehensive two-phase orthodontic treatment can be used to:
• Assist the jaws’ development to ensure that there is sufficient space for all of the permanent teeth.
• Decrease the need to extract permanent teeth later.
• Stabilize the relationship of the lower jaw to the upper jaw, particularly in the case of an underbite.
• Reduce the occurrences of abnormal swallowing or prolonged sucking.
• Move upper front teeth that stick out to reduce the risk of them being knocked out or broken.

3. Moving baby teeth is not done for the sake of their appearance. Because baby teeth can move during phase-one orthodontics in Wellesley MA, their movement is part of the progression to ensure that there is enough space for permanent teeth.

4. Phase one of two-phase orthodontics in Wellesley MA begins when a child still has some of their baby teeth. If an appliance is used in phase-one care, it could be a fixed appliance or a removable one. The type of appliance selected depends on the needs of each individual patient. Some children may need to have baby teeth extracted to clear a path for the permanent teeth to grow in.

5. A resting period is required following phase-one orthodontic treatment.

6. Phase two orthodontics in Wellesley MA typically start when most or all of the permanent teeth have come in. The goal of phase-two treatment is to ensure that the teeth are in their proper place for good function, a pleasing appearance, and a healthy bite.

Give your child the best chance at a healthy, beautiful smile. Follow the recommendation of the American Association of Orthodontists’ (AAO) that all children have their first check-up with an orthodontist no later than the age of 7.

If an orthodontic problem is emerging, the orthodontist will be able to monitor development and growth so that your child can have the best treatment at the most appropriate time. Contact us today so we can begin your child’s orthodontics in Wellesley MA.

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