Using advanced examination techniques and technology, orthodontic experts can predict future complications with your child’s teeth and jaw. With phase 1 orthodontic treatments at Century City Smiles & Orthodontics in Century City, California, serving the Greater Los Angeles area, you can address these issues early and help your child avoid costly, complex, and time-consuming treatments in the future. To book your phase 1 consultation with Shawn Saidian, DDS, and Tania Ohebsion, DDS, call Century City Smiles & Orthodontics or use the online scheduling tool today.
Book OnlineWhat is phase 1?
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, also called early braces, offers a way to correct potential complications with your child’s teeth while they’re still growing. Treating these complications can help your child avoid costly, complex treatments later on during adolescence or adulthood.
The team at Century City Smiles & Orthodontics evaluates your child’s baby teeth while they’re intact. The team creates an individualized treatment plan for your child that may include:
- Stopping habits like thumb-sucking
- Guiding your child’s jaw growth
- Using expanders to widen your child’s palate
- Correcting bite problems (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
Phase 1 orthodontics could require the use of an appliance. Some appliances are removable, while others are fixed for weeks or months at a time. If your child doesn’t need any treatment currently, the team can talk to you about potential future treatments like braces or clear aligners.
At what age should my child start phase 1?
Phase 1 treatment starts when your child still has some or all of their baby teeth. If you’re not sure when to start, the team often recommends bringing your child in for their first evaluation shortly before age 7. Around this time, it becomes clear how your child’s jaw and teeth will develop once their adult teeth start to emerge.
You can expect phase 1 of treatment to last 9-12 months on average. The orthodontic team at Century City Smiles & Orthodontics answers all of your questions and gives you a specific plan for your child’s treatment. It might involve appliances like headgear, expanders, braces, spacers, or retainers.
Will my child need other orthodontic treatments after phase 1?
After your child finishes their phase 1 orthodontic treatment, they may or may not need more orthodontic work in the future. If it’s necessary, phase 2 orthodontics typically begins during early or middle adolescence.
Phase 2 orthodontics finishes what phase 1 starts. Phase 1 treatments provide a template for a more aesthetic smile, and phase 2 treatments complete final adjustments to make it as perfect as possible. The team at Century City Smiles & Orthodontics might recommend braces, clear aligners, or other devices to make your child’s teeth straighter and more aligned.
In extreme cases, orthodontic devices alone aren’t enough to fix structural issues with your child’s teeth and jaw. Orthognathic (jaw) surgery may be necessary to complete their comprehensive treatment plan. Typically, the team recommends orthognathic surgery once your child is finished growing.
To start phase 1 of orthodontic treatments for your child, call Century City Smiles & Orthodontics or book an appointment online today.