Two-Phase Braces

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that combines tooth straightening and physical, facial changes. 

What is the advantage of two-phase orthodontic treatment?

The purpose of two-phase treatment is to maximize the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, and aesthetic result that will remain stable throughout your child's life.

What if treatment is put off?

Putting off treatment can result in a need for more invasive treatment later in life that may not completely fix your child's smile. Early treatment is most effective for achieving lasting results.

Phase One

Children benefit tremendously from early-phase treatment.

The goal of Phase One treatment is to help the jaw develop in a way that will accommodate all of the permanent teeth and improve the way the upper and lower jaws fit together. Children often exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop. An upper jaw that is growing too much or is too narrow can be recognized at an early age. If children over the age of six are found to have this jaw discrepancy, they are candidates for Phase I orthodontic treatment. Also, if children around the age of eight have crowded front teeth, this early treatment can prevent the need to extract permanent teeth later.

Planning now can save your child's smile later

Receiving early treatment may prevent the need for surgical procedures to realign the jaws later in life.

What are orthodontic records?

Orthodontic records consist of models of the teeth, X-rays, and photographs.  They are necessary to determine the type of appliances to be used, the duration of treatment time, and the frequency of visits. During your child's initial consultation, the doctor will take records to determine if early treatment is necessary.

Monitoring the teeth's progress

At the end of the first phase of treatment, teeth may not be in their final positions. This may need to be determined and accomplished in the second phase of treatment. Therefore, periodic recall appointments for observation are necessary, usually on a six-month basis.  

Phase Two

The goal of the second phase is to make sure each tooth has an exact location in the mouth where it is in harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue, and other teeth. When this equilibrium is established, the teeth will function together properly. 

This phase usually begins when all permanent teeth have erupted, and usually requires full treatment with braces or Invisalign for an average of 24 months.  At the end of treatment, retainers are provided to maintain our results.