Early indicators of the need for braces offer an opportunity for you to provide your child with a treatment that extends lifelong results. The two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that combines braces for teeth-straightening with the shaping of the mouth by appliances to achieve an ideal outcome of beautiful teeth that function as they were meant to.

The two-phase orthodontic treatment begins when your child is seven to ten years old, before all his permanent teeth have come in. The first phase begins with the initial appointment, when the orthodontist takes records – X-rays, photos, and models of your child’s teeth. These help ascertain that your child will benefit from this early treatment process. Some children don’t need it. Your orthodontist will tell you honestly if that is the case for your child.

Treatment usually lasts about a year. Making space for the permanent teeth by using growth appliances, expanders and partial braces, the goal of phase one is to direct the jaw to develop in such a way that accommodates all the permanent teeth without extractions, and to correct jaw misalignment so that the upper and lower teeth fit together in a proper bite. This creates room for the permanent teeth to come in without crowding.

Between phase one and phase two is a resting period that gives time for the remainder of the permanent teeth to come into place. Appointments are scheduled approximately every six months while the teeth are coming in. Generally, retainer appliances aren’t used so as to allow the teeth to come in unhindered.

Phase two usually begins when your child is twelve years old and involves full-mouth braces. This ensures that each tooth settles into its exact position for proper functioning between the upper and lower jaws and teeth. Two years is the usual length of this phase. Wearing a retainer after the braces are off helps preserve that beautiful new smile.

The two-phase treatment provides the best opportunity for lasting results from the braces process. From the early teen years through the rest of their life, your child will smile with confidence – and avoid the future discomfort of misaligned jaws. You’ll both be glad you opted for this orthodontic treatment.

When your child needs braces, contact Patriot Family Dental. Come in for an exam, and we’ll determine together if the two-phase treatment is best for your situation.

For your regular dentistry and orthodontics services in Clarksville, Tennessee, call 931-645-2469. At Patriot Family Dental, we meet the unique needs of our patients by providing superior service in general and cosmetic dentistry. Your oral health and beautiful smile is the success we’re after.

The post Kids and Braces – The Two-Phase Orthopedic Success Story appeared first on Patriot Family Dental.