Phase I and Phase II Braces Treatment, Louis F. Mascola
When children face alignment issues early in their dental development, they can benefit from receiving orthodontic treatment that addresses these issues early on. Problems such malocclusion (incorrect biting function) are more easily corrected when a child’s mouth is still forming. Phase I treatment is most effective around age seven, and Phase II may be recommended at age 11 to bring the smile into full function. Louis F. Mascola provides diverse solutions to teeth misalignment and malocclusion from his practice near you.
What is Phase I?
At age seven, children generally have their permanent incisors grown in, and it’s also at this time a dentist or orthodontist can see developmental problems more clearly. Dr. Mascola’s concerns include bite function, whether a child exhibits under or overbite, or if the jaw will have enough room for full sets of adult teeth. Phase I treatment usually includes an oral appliance and braces on the front eight teeth, which will make them straight and ensure the jaw has enough room for future sets of teeth. The range of treatment time is 12-18 months, but the time frame is different per case. At the end of treatment, our orthodontist will monitor smile development and determine if a Phase II is necessary.
Phase II Braces
Through the pre-teen and teen years, a child may need further treatment as jaw growth nears completion and teeth grow in fully. Phase II is usually administered through traditional braces, but other treatments can also be applied, braces options such as Invisalign®. These braces alternatives are not universally applicable to children and will be advised on a case by case basis. Phase II treatment lasts from 12 to 24 months, and can be the final orthodontic treatment your children will need.
Is Phase I Treatment Necessary?
In terms of oral health, beginning treatment early is better than waiting for serious issues to develop. Some children have extensive alignment issues that can affect a child’s oral health negatively for a lifetime. Without proper jaw and tooth alignment, teeth can be worn down, TMD can develop, and cleaning the teeth can be extremely difficult. The benefits of Phase I treatment can be great, including a better looking smile for improved self-esteem, and some children may not need a second round of braces treatment. By preemptively addressing alignment issues, parents can ensure good oral health for their child’s lifetime.
Contact Louis F. Mascola
Consider our practice for your child’s orthodontic needs. Feel free to call our practice for tailored orthodontic services, or request a referral from your general dentist. We look forward to hearing from you.