Adolescent Treatment

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two kids with bracesAdolescent Treatment

Between the ages of 10 and 12 is the optimal time for orthodontic treatment, and for good reasons. During this time the last primary teeth are typically still in place and they are larger than the permanent teeth replacing them. This space is called leeway space and can be used to resolve crowding with better stability. Also, during this time mild to moderate skeletal problems can still be corrected for a more functional and aesthetic result. If you wait until all the permanent teeth erupt these windows of opportunity can be lost and the final result will suffer and be less stable. These problems will not correct themselves, so this is  the ideal time for parents  to seek orthodontic treatment.

This is also a good time for orthodontic treatment because many negative associations of braces are not present. Many children in this age range undergo orthodontic treatment, and children are very often excited to get braces which leads to better cooperation and a better result.

Besides the benefits of fitting in with their friends, children at this age are growing rapidly, and orthodontists can usually take advantage of these growth spurts to help shape the bite and teeth correctly. And children at this age have high metabolisms, which can help shorten overall treatment time and reduce the discomfort of orthodontic treatment.

Two-Phase Treatment

Two-phase treatment occurs when a patient is evaluated and needs intervention before starting regular orthodontic treatment, resulting in two separate treatment plans.

The first phase of treatment, Phase I, usually occurs when the patient is 7 to 8 years old and still has his or her primary teeth. The Phase I treatment is typically needed to correct skeletal issues which can include significant bite discrepancy's or narrow upper jaws (maxillary constriction). This is also a great time to address crossbites which prevent normal development and can wear down front teeth. A first phase of treatment can significantly reduce later problems and make phase II treatment much easier and more successful.

Typically, Phase II treatment is normal orthodontic treatment. This involves placing braces on the patient once his or her permanent teeth have erupted. The braces straighten the permanent teeth and finish correctly aligning the patient's jaw.

Patients who have undergone both Phase I and Phase II treatment are more likely to have lasting results. Our goal for your two-phase orthodontic treatment is to give you correctly aligned teeth that provide ideal jaw function and a great smile!

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