Phase I orthodontic treatment, is an early form of treatment which is problem-focused to address specific problems in a young child’s mouth. It is therefore pro-active in nature and addresses developing problems before becoming bigger problems later in life. While most kids won’t start braces until all of their permanent teeth have erupted, first phase treatment begins at an early age, typically between 6 and 9 years of age, during the mixed dentition phase, when a young patient has both primary (‘baby’) teeth as well as some adult (‘permanent’) teeth present.
There are many significant advantages to treating a child with first phase braces, including being able to take advantage of the period of active growth to treat severe overbites and create space for over-crowding. This type of treatment generally lasts 12 months. Treatment time can be as short as 6 months or as long as 18 months, depending on the individual challenge for each patient.
Cosmetic treatments are usually not treated with early braces. However, if your child is experiencing social anxiety, bullying or lack of self-esteem due to their teeth, this is a legitimate reason to begin first phase orthodontics.
Common orthodontic appliances used at this time include:
- Habit appliances
- Functional appliances
- Limited phase of braces
- Specialized retainers
- Expansion appliances
- Space maintainers
Not every child is a candidate for phase 1 treatment - children with bad oral hygiene, cavities, or children that will not comply with food restrictions and instructions for braces are not ideal candidates. If your child is not quite ready, your child will be placed in an observation period with follow-up appointments to determine the best time to start treatment. We will also monitor breathing troubles, speech difficulties and bad habits such as teeth grinding and mouth breathing in small children.
Here is a list of common dental conditions that are typically treated with interceptive orthodontics:
- Crossbite
- Crowding with severe rotation and/or displacement of teeth
- Open Bite
- Flared Upper Teeth
- Deep Over Bite
- Underbite
- Ectopic tooth eruption
- Thumb or Finger Sucking Habits
First Phases Cases Treated by PretoriaSmile:
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children get a checkup with an orthodontist at around 7 years of age. This is the best time to detect whether there are disturbances in jaw growth or tooth development that are more easily addressed at this age.
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- Learn more about Two Phase Treatment