Understanding Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment

Two-Phase Treatment

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is unique in that it combines tooth straightening along with facial appearance improvement. The purpose is to improve the overall health, function and aesthetics of your child during the ever so important growth years, while producing results that will be stable for a lifetime.

First Phase Treatment (Early Preventative Treatment)

The goal of the first phase of treatment is to develop both the upper and lower jaws sufficiently to accommodate all of the permanent teeth.

Children sometimes exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop. An upper or lower jaw that is growing too much or not enough, or is too wide or too narrow can be recognized at an early age. If children display any of these characteristics they should be brought in for an early orthodontic evaluation.

Early Preventative Treatment may include:

  •  The diagnosis and treatment of airway problems
  • The elimination of habits
  • Correction of small upper and lower jaws
  • Enhancement of facial appearance

Early Preventative Treatment may prevent:

  • The later removal of permanent teeth.
  • Surgical procedures to align the upper and lower jaws
  • Orthodontics that takes too long (2-3 years)

Second Phase Treatment (Corrective Treatment)

Each tooth has an exact location in the mouth where it is in harmony with the cheeks, tongue, jaws, jaw joints and other teeth. When this equilibrium is established, the teeth will function together properly. This is the goal of the second phase of treatment.

The second phase is initiated when most of the permanent teeth have erupted, which is usually around the teenage years. We understand that being a teenager is difficult enough. With our unique two phase treatment 80-90% of our second phase of treatment can be completed with Invisalign®.

Fun Facts!

Did you know, that our office has a 90% extraction free track record? That means we were able to help children needing significant orthodontic treatment without the need to pull teeth!  In addition, 86% of our children and teens can work with Invisalign in their second phase of treatment.