Two-phase orthodontics treatment consists of two separate times when a child receives orthodontic treatment. A first phase of treatment is done while the child still has many or most of their primary or "baby" teeth.
A second phase takes place when the child has most or all of their permanent teeth. Braces may or may not be used during a first phase of treatment.
Because they are growing rapidly, children can benefit enormously from an early phase of orthodontic treatment utilizing appliances that direct the growth of the upper and lower jaws. Thus, a good foundation can be established, providing adequate room for eruption of all permanent teeth.
This early correction may prevent removal of permanent teeth, correct overcrowding, and avoid surgical procedures needed to align the upper and lower jaws. Leaving such a condition untreated until all permanent teeth erupt could result in a jaw discrepancy too severe to resolve with braces alone.
Also, the desired changes that result from a first phase treatment may contribute to better long-term stability, meaning that teeth stay where the orthodontist has moved them.
The disadvantage of waiting for a complete eruption of permanent teeth and having only one phase of treatment for someone with a jaw discrepancy is facing the possibility of a compromised result that may not be stable.
The goal of first phase treatment is to develop the jaw size in order to accommodate all the permanent teeth and to coordinate the upper and lower jaws to one another.
Children sometimes exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop. An upper and lower jaw that is growing too much or not enough can be recognized at an early age. If children after age 6 are found to have this jaw discrepancy, they are candidates for early two phase orthodontic treatment.
The resting period occurs between the two-phase orthodontic treatment and the remaining permanent teeth are allowed to erupt. Retainers are recommended since they help prevent relapse to the prior condition and guide eruption of the remaining permanent teeth.
The goal of the second phase is to make sure all permanent teeth have an exact location in the mouth where they are in harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue, and other teeth. The second phase is usually recommended at around age 11 to 13.
When this equilibrium is established, the result is a beautiful smile and teeth that function properly.
