Two-Phase Treatment

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What is Two-Phase Treatment?

Dr. Maryam Mojdehi-Barnes, of Allen Orthodontics, believes that some younger patients require additional attention when it comes to their orthodontic treatment. Depending on the evaluation, there are a number of issues that may warrant a two-phase treatment such as habits, crossbites, overbites, underbites, and impacted teeth. Each phase of the orthodontic treatment addresses specific issues, which is why two-phase treatment is so important when required.

First Phase of Treatment

Phase I, interceptive, or early treatment is done while the jaws are still actively growing and a combination of primary and permanent teeth exists. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children be screened by an orthodontist by age 7. This early screening allows for prevention and more successful correction of growth and developmental problems since a child's bone structure is actively growing. Preventative and interceptive orthodontics are two major goals of our treatment. We believe in early orthodontic treatment to modify unfavorable growth patterns of the jaws early on to decrease the need for extracting teeth or having jaw surgery in the future. This approach allows for healthier, more esthetic, and more functional results as adults. Also, a great smile during those forming years can lead to greater self-confidence and better socialization. Another common added benefit of Phase I treatment is less time in Phase II treatment.

The following are some of the issues that warrant early treatment:

  • Severe crowding
  • Large overbite (deep bite)
  • Large overjet (protrusion of front teeth or “buck teeth”)
  • Crossbite
  • Underbite
  • Open bite
  • Midlines not matching up
  • Jaws not growing coordinated
  • Thumb sucking
  • Tongue thrusting

Recall Phase

This is a very important phase of monitoring the growth and development of the jaws. During this phase, the remaining primary teeth exfoliate as the permanent teeth erupt. We will see your child every six months or annually until all permanent teeth are erupted. At this time, we will evaluate the need for a second phase of braces. We will take annual X-rays to monitor the development, and Dr. Mojdehi-Barnes will discuss the findings with you. This service is complimentary to our existing first phase patients or to those new patients that did not need any first phase treatment.

Second Phase of Treatment

At the end of Phase I treatment, not all permanent teeth have erupted into their final positions. At that time, it is not possible to predict the need for a second phase of treatment. Keep in mind that the goal of first phase therapy is not esthetic treatment, and typically, Phase II treatment is needed to achieve that. Our goal for your second phase orthodontic treatment is to give you correctly aligned teeth that provide ideal jaw function and a great smile! Patients who have undergone both Phase I and Phase II treatment are more likely to have lasting results.

Phase II involves orthodontic treatment of all permanent teeth with braces or Invisalign for about 18-24 months. Retainers are worn after this phase to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for life.

Schedule A Consultation With Your Allen, TX Orthodontic Specialist

If you believe you may require advanced or two-phase orthodontic treatment, Allen Orthodontics is here to help. Dr. Maryam Mojdehi-Barnes has been providing high-quality care to her patients since 1999 and strives to help everyone achieve the beautiful, healthy smile they deserve. Contact us today if you would like to speak with our staff or have any questions. You can also schedule an appointment online to begin the first step of your orthodontic journey with us. We look forward to hearing from you!