Child Orthodontics- Phase I Orthodontics
in Bee Cave, Kyle, and Austin
There are two distinct "phases" of orthodontic treatment that orthodontists recommend to growing individuals. Phase I Orthodontics goes by many names: Early Orthodontics, Interceptive Orthodontics, Limited Orthodontics, or Phase I Orthodontics which is sometimes written as Phase 1/One Orthodontics. Many people have not heard of phase I orthodontics because it is only recommended when necessary. Usually, people have not heard about it unless they know someone who needed interventional orthodontic treatment.
Phase I Orthodontics is when we intervene at a young age while many baby teeth are still present to address a problem that could potentially get worse without correction. Whereas, phase II orthodontics or comprehensive orthodontics is when we correct orthodontic concerns in adolescents with mostly or all permanent teeth present. At Boss Orthodontics, we are all about creating long-term, healthy smiles.
When Is the Ideal Time To Orthodontics?
Did you know that the American Association of Orthodontists recommends the evaluation of children by an orthodontist by the age of 7? Many developmental concerns can be diagnosed and corrected at this young age before they become more complex problems.
Phase I orthodontics, also known as interceptive or early orthodontics, typically takes place between the ages of 7 and 11. It is designed to intercept problems with the growth, development, or eruption of teeth, allowing us to intervene while a child's jawbones are extremely malleable and responsive to treatment, which ensures quick results.
What Is the Goal of Early Treatment?
The goal of early treatment is to set your child's teeth and jaws on the path of proper growth and development. Our aim is to quickly and efficiently address those issues that would otherwise become worse or cause irreversible damage if left uncorrected. To accomplish this, we use a combination of appliances and at times braces on select teeth.
Usually, a main component of phase I treatment is expansion or space regaining. This creates space for the permanent teeth that have yet to come in. For children with moderate crowding, early treatment can potentially create space for adult teeth that would otherwise not have had room. While for some cases, extractions may be unavoidable, phase I orthodontics offers the best chance to potentially avoid them. Most children who undergo early treatment will require braces or clear aligners a few years later when all of their permanent teeth are in. Phase II treatments are usually shorter and less complicated.
Why Would Your Child Need Early Treatment?
Conditions requiring early treatment/ phase I orthodontics include:
- Crowded or crooked teeth
- Crossbite (front and back)
- Protruding teeth
- Underbites
- Severe overbites
- Early baby tooth loss
- Thumb or finger sucking after age 5
- Mouth breathing
- Difficulty in chewing or biting
- Speech impediments due to jaw anatomy
- Jaws and teeth that are growing disproportionately
Examples of Early Treatment
One of the most common examples of phase I orthodontic treatment is an expander to correct a crossbite or make space for permeant teeth to prevent future a impaction. Space regaining with expanders is more effective during this age and the results are more stable. Sometimes the same treatment options are not possible at a later date because we may have missed the ideal window of intervention. Crossbites are very important to correct ASAP because they often lead to the lower jaw growing off to one side (asymmetrically). The quicker the crossbite is corrected, the sooner the lower jaw growth can return to normal and the less severe the asymmetry. Other interceptive treatments may include braces on select teeth, habit appliances or the timed removal of baby teeth to help the adult teeth come in correctly.
Why Choose Boss Orthodontics for Phase I Orthodontic Treatment?
Dr Boss & Boss have a passion for Phase I treatment (when needed) and use the latest orthodontic appliances to make your child's care efficient and comfortable such as our self-expanding expander with custom 3D printed bands. We can make a profound change on your child during this interceptive phase of orthodontics to get growth and dental development back on track. We specialize in personalized orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults with three convenient locations in Austin, Kyle, and Bee Cave. Our experienced team is committed to helping your child achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. We offer state-of-the-art technology, a welcoming environment, and customized treatment plans tailored to your child’s specific needs.
Phase I Orthodontics/ Interceptive Orthodontic Before and Afters
Phase I Orthodontic Appliance Examples
Ready to Smile with Confidence?
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Ready to smile with Confidence?
Click to schedule a Free Consultation. We can't wait to see you!
Child Orthodontics Near Me / Early Orthodontic Treatment Near Me
Contact Boss Orthodontics in Bee Cave, Kyle, and Austin TX, to learn more about the many benefits of early orthodontic treatment. We will evaluate how your child's mouth is growing and developing, and will recommend intervention, if necessary, to lay the groundwork for a lifetime of beautiful, healthy smiles.
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