Understanding Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment: Who Needs It?

Orthodontic treatment has evolved significantly over the years, offering various approaches to address different dental issues. For some children with specific orthodontic concerns, a two-phase treatment approach may be recommended. If you are wondering who needs this treatment, the following explains what two-phase orthodontic treatment entails, who may benefit from it and the differences between traditional and two-phase orthodontic treatment.

What is Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?

Two-phase orthodontic Treatment is a specialized approach designed for children with severe orthodontic issues that require early intervention. Unlike traditional orthodontic treatment, which typically begins in adolescence, two-phase treatment involves two distinct phases at different stages of a child’s dental development.

Phase One

The first phase of treatment usually begins around the age of 8 and lasts for approximately 12 months. During this phase, the focus is on addressing specific orthodontic problems such as severe crowding, jaw growth disharmonies or underbites. Treatment may involve the use of braces on 4-6 top teeth and a palate expander to create space and correct alignment issues.

Braces are removed after the completion of phase one, and the patient is provided with a retainer to maintain the results achieved during this phase. The child then enters a “braces break” until most of the permanent teeth (minus wisdom teeth) have erupted.

Phase Two

Once all permanent teeth have erupted, usually during adolescence, the second phase of treatment begins. This phase involves a full set of braces to further align and fine-tune the position of the teeth. The duration of the second phase of treatment typically ranges from 12 to 24 months, depending on the severity of the orthodontic issues.

Who Needs Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment?

Two-phase orthodontic treatment may be recommended for children with specific orthodontic problems that are more severe or complex in nature. These may include:

• Thumb-sucking habit: Prolonged thumb-sucking can lead to dental issues such as misalignment of the teeth or changes in jaw structure, requiring early intervention.
• Severe crowding of the teeth: Crowded teeth may need to be addressed early to create space for proper alignment and prevent future complications.
• Upper or lower jaw growth disharmonies: Jaw growth discrepancies may necessitate early intervention to guide proper jaw development and alignment.
• Underbite or severe overbite: These bite misalignments may require phased treatment to address functional and aesthetic concerns effectively.

Two-phase orthodontic treatment offers a proactive approach to addressing severe orthodontic issues in children, allowing for early intervention and optimal treatment outcomes. By understanding the indications for two-phase treatment and the differences between traditional and phased orthodontic approaches, parents can make informed decisions about their child’s orthodontic care. If you suspect your child may benefit from two-phase orthodontic treatment, schedule a consultation with Broad Street Braces to discuss your options and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs. Call our orthodontic clinic in Philadelphia, PA, to schedule your orthodontic consultation.