Phase 1 Orthodontics Treatment For Kids
While there is no exact age for children to begin orthodontic treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends visiting the orthodontist around age 7.
By this age, most children have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth, making it easier for the orthodontist to diagnose and correct tooth and jaw problems sooner and without surgery.
What does Phase I mean?
Phase I, or early interceptive treatment, is orthodontic treatment (i.e. expansion, active retainer, or partial braces) before all the permanent teeth have erupted, and often occurs between the ages of seven and ten.
Phase I:
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Before all permanent teeth come in (between ages 7-10)
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Ensuring there is enough space to help prevent future crowding, cross bites, and overbites
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Average time in treatment is 9-18 months with retainers to hold space until Phase II
TREATMENT - CHILDREN
After Phase I, your child will wear retainer(s), which are checked on a customized growth schedule. These no fee visits are approximately every three to six months apart. We monitor permanent teeth eruption and jaw growth, as well as maintenance of Phase I results.
Later, when most of the permanent teeth have erupted (usually between the ages of eleven and thirteen), Phase II recommendations will occur at the conclusion of this growth observation period.
Dr. Patil develops a customized growth plan based on the child's baby teeth and permanent teeth as well as jaw development. Specific goals for treatment are set during a consultation with Dr. Patil and vary based on each individual case.
"Thank you for the beautiful smile! Thank you for providing Jenna both comfort and confidence throughout this first phase of braces. Thank you for your honesty on which treatment we should follow. I am confident in your experience. Your entire staff is exceptional, caring, professional and friendly. Looking forward to returning in the future." - Parent Google Review