Phase One Orthodontic Treatment: Is My Child a Candidate?

Adolescence—a time of angst, acne, and often, braces. Orthodontic treatment can sometimes be complex and costly. Sometimes, it can be broken into two phases, which may be the most effective way to address complicated problems. 

At Century City Smiles & Orthodontics, Dr. Shawn Saidian and Dr. Tania Ohebsion routinely screen children as young as six and seven for emerging orthodontic issues. When appropriate, we advocate using a phased approach to orthodontic treatment. Phase one treatment can either avert complications later or make phase two less difficult. 

The when and why of phase one

Phase one orthodontic treatment happens before your child has all their permanent teeth, a stage dentists call mixed dentition. It usually begins between the ages of six and nine years old. 

Even though most people associate braces with the awkward part of adolescence, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all kids get a checkup from an orthodontist by age seven. By that time, orthodontists can see emerging issues in how your child’s jaw and teeth are developing. 

Phase one is sometimes referred to as “early braces” because it’s done well before traditional braces are applied. Some of the things we use phase one treatment to correct include: 

• Guiding the growth of the jaw
• Widening your child’s palate
• Correcting problems like an overbite, underbite, or cross-bite
• Making sure there’s room for permanent teeth 

The goal of phase one treatment isn’t to move baby teeth, although that can happen. 

What to expect

Phase one treatment may include the use of a dental appliance like headgear or specialized retainers. Some appliances are removable and need to be worn a certain number of hours each day, and others are fixed for a period of time. 

Phase one treatment usually lasts between 9 and 12 months. Since we carefully tailor treatment to meet your child’s needs, we vary both the types of treatment and the time your child needs it. 

After phase one, most kids get a rest period before beginning phase two, typically in early or middle adolescence. The break between phases allows your child’s jaw to finish growing and their permanent teeth to erupt. It also provides a time for your dentist to reevaluate your child’s dental health and the best plan to help them have strong, healthy, and beautiful teeth into adulthood. 

Who doesn’t need phased treatment?

Not all kids need two phases of treatment. If our dentists recommend that approach, it’s because they’ve noted a specific issue. 

When phased treatment is recommended, it’s likely the most effective way to ensure your child develops a healthy, functional smile. Many, perhaps even most, orthodontic issues can be addressed in a single, comprehensive treatment. 

It’s important to understand that Dr. Saidian and Dr. Ohebsion make treatment recommendations based on your child’s individual circumstances and oral health. 

If you’d like to schedule an exam and consultation regarding your child’s orthodontic health, we’re always happy to answer your questions and offer guidance on maintaining optimal oral health.