Two-Phase Treatment Specialist

What is two-phase treatment?

Two-phase orthodontic treatment uses custom oral appliances to straighten your child’s teeth and jaw while complimenting their natural facial growth. By investing in two-phase treatment at an early age, it’s possible to achieve a healthy, functional smile that remains aligned and functional throughout adulthood. 

Two-phase treatment is particularly effective because it occurs during your child’s natural growing process. Because their facial bones are still growing, it’s possible to improve the appearance of their teeth and jaw while lowering the risk of potential complications later on.

What does two-phase treatment involve?

At Schoolhouse Orthodontics, LTD, two-phase treatment involves several unique steps:

Phase one

Phase one treatment encourages healthy jaw growth and development. By intervening early, it’s possible to prevent the need for extractions or more complicated procedures at a later date.

Children between the ages of six and eight qualify for phase one treatment. To determine if your child will benefit, Dr. Bolden conducts an oral exam and takes digital X-rays. If they have a narrow upper jaw or crowded front teeth, they’ll likely qualify. 

Phase one treatment typically involves oral appliances like palatal expanders or retainers.

Resting period

Phase one treatment creates room for your child’s permanent teeth to emerge. During the resting period, your child removes their appliances while their adult teeth break through the gum line. Dr. Bolden conducts a comprehensive oral exam during the resting period, to ensure the two-phase treatment process is working as planned.

Phase two

The goal of phase two orthodontic treatment is to move each of your child’s permanent teeth into the optimal position. To achieve this goal, Dr. Bolden typically recommends braces on the upper and lower arch. Most children need to wear their braces for 24 months, but it may take less time depending on the issues addressed.

When your child’s teeth achieve proper alignment, Dr. Bolden removes the braces and has them transition to a retainer. 

What if I put off two-phase treatment?

Waiting to enroll your child in two-phase orthodontic treatment increases the risk of more serious tooth and jaw misalignments. If your child has an alignment issue like a crossbite, overbite, or underbite, it makes their teeth more difficult to clean, putting them at risk of cavities and gum disease.

To see if your child can benefit from two-phase treatment, make an appointment at Schoolhouse Orthodontics, LTD, by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool today.