Phase I Treatment

What is phase 1 treatment?

Phase 1 treatment is early orthodontic intervention that helps correct common childhood dental issues before the eruption of the adult teeth. It’s a great way to take a proactive approach to tooth alignment or jaw problems and can make a significant difference in your child’s orthodontic needs when they reach the teenage years. 

Parents are advised to bring children in to see the orthodontist around the age of seven. This allows your practitioner to check for signs of concern. In many cases, there is no need for any form of treatment, and parents are advised to return for another assessment once their children reach their early teens. 

If conditions pose a threat to your child’s proper alignment, phase 1 treatment options can help.  

What kinds of issues can be addressed in phase 1 orthodontic treatment?

Phase 1 orthodontic treatment offers the ability to correct dental issues well before moving forward with full braces, which is known as phase 2 treatment. During your consultation, advanced imaging and a thorough dental exam provides insight into your child’s current and expected teeth alignment. 

Some of the issues phase 1 treatment can improve include:

• Significant dental crowding
• Anterior open bite
• Impacted tooth
• Severe overbite
• Flared upper teeth
• Crossbite of front teeth or back teeth
• Issues caused by thumb-sucking

During your initial visit you learn if phase 1 treatment is a good fit for your child’s orthodontic needs.

How long does phase 1 treatment last?

Phase 1 orthodontic treatment generally focuses on improving a single dental issue. In some cases, an oral appliance effectively corrects the problem. Special retainers are also a great option for correcting certain alignment concerns. 

In other instances, kids need to wear a system of brackets and wires for a period of time to enhance alignment. These early braces can be installed on permanent or baby teeth or a mix of the two. 

Phase 1 treatment typically only lasts a year or less. Every effort is made to complete this phase of treatment swiftly in order to avoid a child becoming fatigued with orthodontic care before phase 2 begins. 

If you have additional questions or concerns about phase 1 treatment, call Impressive Orthodontics today to schedule a visit. Online booking is also an option, plus it’s fast and easy.