Kids and Braces – The Two-Phase Orthopedic Success Story

October 24, 2014

Patriot Family Dental - Two Phase Orthodontic Procedure (Braces) You can usually tell pretty early when your kid is going to need braces. You dread it for them, but it must be done. A lot of self-confidence rides on that smile.

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.

Phase One

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

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.

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What Your Gums Are Telling You About Your Health

June 29, 2026

At Patriot Family Dental, we know your gums do more than support your teeth. The condition of your gums can give valuable insight into your overall health. Changes in your gum health may be early warning signs of issues affecting other parts of the body. Understanding what your gums tell you can help you take early actions to preserve your oral health and general well-being. Healthy Gums Signify Positive Oral Health Healthy gums should appear pink, firm, and fit snugly around your teeth. They should not bleed during brushing or flossing or feel tender or swollen. Healthy gums create a protective barrier that keeps harmful bacteria from entering the bloodstream. However, when gum health begins to decline, your body may be signaling that something needs attention. Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore Many people assume bleeding gums are normal, but they are often an early sign of gum disease. Gum disease begins when plaque and bacteria accumulate along the gumline, causing inflammation and irritation. Common symptoms that may indicate a problem include: • Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing • Red, swollen, or tender gums • Persistent bad breath • Receding gums • Loose teeth • Increased tooth sensitivity • Pain when chewing If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a dental examination as soon as possible. Early treatment can prevent more serious oral and systemic health concerns. The Link Between Gums & Overall Health Studies have proven strong relationships from oral issues to several chronic health conditions. Inflammation from periodontal disease may affect the body’s immune response and contribute to other health complications. Studies have linked gum disease to: • Heart disease • Diabetes • Stroke • Respiratory infections • Pregnancy complications Uncontrolled diabetes can make gum disease harder to manage, while severe gum disease may make blood sugar levels harder to control. This two-way relationship highlights the crucial role of maintaining healthy gums in integrated healthcare. What Receding Gums May Be Telling You Gum recession occurs when gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth root. It can be caused by gum disease, aggressive brushing, tobacco use, or teeth grinding. Receding gums may cause tooth sensitivity and increase the risk of decay below the gumline. Addressing the cause early helps preserve oral health and prevent further damage. Preventive Dental Care Makes a Difference One of the best ways to keep your gums healthy is regular preventive dental care. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing alone cannot eliminate. At Patriot Family Dental, we evaluate your gum health during routine visits. By spotting signs of inflammation, infection, or gum disease early, we help you sustain a healthier smile and reduce future risks. You can also support healthy gums at home by: • Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste • Flossing every day • Using an antimicrobial mouthwash • Eating a balanced diet • Avoiding tobacco products • Scheduling regular dental checkups Listen to Your Gums Your gums reveal important information about your oral and overall health. Paying attention to changes, including bleeding, swelling, or recession, helps catch likely concerns before they worsen. At Patriot Family Dental, we are committed to helping patients achieve healthier smiles via comprehensive, personalized dental care. Whether you are due for a regular cleaning or have concerns about your gum health, our experienced team is here to help. Schedule your next dental appointment today, then take an important step toward protecting your smile and your total wellness.

The Link Between Oral Health and Heart Health