For kids with certain bite issues, we can guide teeth and jaw development through distinct treatment phases, preventing more serious problems and ensuring optimal results.
The Path to a Healthy Smile That Lasts a Lifetime
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends kids have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. While many kids won’t need treatment right away, for others, early detection and intervention are critical for proper smile development. By working with natural growth instead of against it, Dr. White can prevent emerging issues from becoming full-blown problems, helping your child avoid the need for extensive treatment, extractions, or jaw surgery down the road.
Phase One
Functional (Growth) Appliances and/or Limited Braces
Ages 5–12
Early intervention with Phase One treatment allows Dr. White to address issues during a critical window of growth and development. Functional appliances and/or limited braces can be used to guide dental and facial development. Phase One orthodontic treatment prevents more severe problems later and, sometimes, even eliminates the need for further treatment.
In this phase, Dr. White focuses on:
- Jaw Growth and Symmetry: Correcting narrow, asymmetrical, or underdeveloped jaws
- Oral Habits: Addressing tongue thrusting, thumb sucking, or mouth breathing
- Spacing Issues: Managing abnormal spacing caused by missing teeth or lack of room in the jaw
- Airway and Breathing: Improving breathing and snoring problems by preventing airway constriction
Phase Two
Comprehensive Braces or Clear Aligners
Ages 12–14
Phase Two orthodontic treatment begins once most of the permanent teeth are in. The goal of this phase is to align the teeth and jaws for ideal function, health, and aesthetics. Thanks to early intervention during Phase One orthodontics, Phase Two treatment often requires less time wearing braces or clear aligners.
Dr. White will focus on:
- Straightening Teeth: Ensuring proper alignment and optimal spacing for a beautiful smile
- Bite Alignment: Correcting how the teeth and jaws fit together, creating a stable bite and reducing strain on the jaw joint (TMJ)
- Facial Profile: Improving facial balance and overall appearance
- Gum Health: Protecting periodontal tissues by correctly aligning the teeth and bite
Phase One
Functional (Growth) Appliances and/or Limited Braces
Ages 5–12
Early intervention with Phase One treatment allows Dr. White to address issues during a critical window of growth and development. Functional appliances and/or limited braces can be used to guide dental and facial development. Phase One orthodontic treatment prevents more severe problems later and, sometimes, even eliminates the need for further treatment.
In this phase, Dr. White focuses on:
- Jaw Growth and Symmetry: Correcting narrow, asymmetrical, or underdeveloped jaws
- Oral Habits: Addressing tongue thrusting, thumb sucking, or mouth breathing
- Spacing Issues: Managing abnormal spacing caused by missing teeth or lack of room in the jaw
- Airway and Breathing: Improving breathing and snoring problems by preventing airway constriction
Phase Two
Comprehensive Braces or Clear Aligners
Ages 12–14
Phase Two orthodontic treatment begins once most of the permanent teeth are in. The goal of this phase is to align the teeth and jaws for ideal function, health, and aesthetics. Thanks to early intervention during Phase One orthodontics, Phase Two treatment often requires less time wearing braces or clear aligners.
Dr. White will focus on:
- Straightening Teeth: Ensuring proper alignment and optimal spacing for a beautiful smile
- Bite Alignment: Correcting how the teeth and jaws fit together, creating a stable bite and reducing strain on the jaw joint (TMJ)
- Facial Profile: Improving facial balance and overall appearance
- Gum Health: Protecting periodontal tissues by correctly aligning the teeth and bite
Benefits
01.
Guides Dental and Facial Development
Intervening before a child’s face and jaws are done developing, lets us guide growth, reposition the jaws, and correct up to 80% of issues before adult teeth are present.
02.
Shorter Treatment Times
Phase One treatment can reduce the total time spent in braces or clear aligners and help kids avoid the need for jaw surgery or extractions.
03.
Improves Confidence
Straight teeth and a proper bite boost a child’s self-esteem. Additionally, early treatment can positively impact your child’s future health and appearance for lifelong confidence.
FAQ
Why does my child need an orthodontic evaluation by age 7?
By age 7, most kids have their first permanent molars, which help to establish the bite. At this stage, Dr. White can identify potential teeth and jaw alignment issues that may benefit from early intervention.
Starting treatment while a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth allows Dr. White to guide natural growth, encouraging proper jaw development and helping permanent teeth come in straighter. In some cases, early care can even prevent more complex orthodontic problems from developing altogether.
Will my child need two phases of treatment?
Not every child needs two phases of treatment. Phase One is for addressing early developmental concerns, while Phase Two focuses on final alignment and bite correction. Dr. White will create a customized plan based on your child’s needs.
How long does Phase One treatment take?
Phase One treatments typically last 7–9 months, depending on the specific issue being treated.
Are functional appliances uncomfortable for kids?
Functional appliances are designed to be comfortable and effective. Most kids adjust to their appliance quickly and forget they’re even wearing it. Your child will be able to continue with their normal activities during treatment.
What are the benefits of starting orthodontic treatment early?
Early treatment can prevent the need for more invasive procedures, reduce total treatment time, and help children develop:
- A beautiful, natural smile
- A better facial profile
- A more functional bite
- A healthy airway
- Confidence!
