Does My Child Need Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?

Bunn Orthodontic Group

Dr. Bunn can successfully correct most orthodontic problems regardless of the patient’s age. But that does not mean that the orthodontic treatment starting age does not matter. As with any decisions regarding health care, it is best to act when time is on your side.

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that involves facial and jaw changes along with straightening teeth.  As a child grows, both the upper jaw and lower jaw will grow in three dimensions. This growth will decide the final positioning of the mid and lower face. Sometimes, the upper and lower jaws will grow at different rates and create alignment issues.

Two-phase orthodontics starts with interceptive treatment. Such treatment usually occurs between the ages of seven and ten in order to make more space for developing teeth, shift teeth, or manipulate growth. The goal of interceptive treatment is to take advantage of growth potential and to catch an orthodontic problem before it gets out of hand.

Once a majority of the adult teeth have erupted, the second phase can begin. This most commonly occurs at the age of 12 or 13. The goal of Phase II treatment is to achieve ideal alignment and bite relationships with all of the permanent teeth.

Dr. Beverley Bunn recommends scheduling your child’s first orthodontic consultation around the age of 7. Even if you think your child’s smile is perfect, early diagnosis and treatment can have a lasting improvement on the function of their teeth and their overall appearance.

Not every child requires Phase I treatment. If you are interested in learning more about Two-Phase Orthodontics, contact our San Antonio orthodontic office to schedule an initial consultation for your child.