Phase One and Phase Two Treatment

What is Phase One and Phase Two Treatment?

Phase One treatment, if necessary, is usually initiated on children between the ages of 7 and 10 and it lasts for about 10-14 months. The primary objective for Phase One treatment is to address significant problems to prevent them from becoming more severe and to improve self-esteem and self-image. This approach, when needed, makes any subsequent orthodontic treatment significantly easier and faster and provides you with an enhanced final result.

Phase One treatment is nearly always only part of the treatment philosophy. It is best to assume that your child will need full braces even after Phase One treatment has been completed. There will most likely be a “resting period” following Phase One treatment, during which growth and tooth eruption is closely monitored by your orthodontist. Throughout this period, parents and patients will be kept informed of future treatment recommendations.

Phase One treatment is intended to make any future treatments faster and more ideal – including minimizing the need for extraction of permanent teeth.

Phase Two is the “finishing touch” and should be accomplished relatively quickly. The braces are applied, the wires are adjusted and the final step is the elastic (rubber band) wear. When you get to the elastics, you are nearly finished, so be certain you wear them properly and long enough or your treatment will go longer than the estimated and necessary time.

Choosing an orthodontic specialist to guide you through the best treatment for your individual needs is important! Orthodontists have completed additional education and residency requirements and they have the expertise and experience to guide you through to a beautiful result!