YOUR FIRST ORTHODONTIC EVALUATION
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial orthodontic evaluation by the age of seven. Orthodontic treatment is easier and produces better results when it begins early.
A specialized process that encompasses both tooth straightening and jaw and facial improvements is frequently accomplished in two phases. Two Phase Treatment can have a dramatic effect on skeletal change and can save permanent teeth.
Before Two Phase Treatment techniques were developed, children began orthodontic treatment with full braces after the complete eruption of permanent teeth. Skeletal problems were left untreated, which later compromised the final result. Without the first phase of treatment, it is extremely difficult to align the upper and lower teeth so that they fit together in a proper bite. The skeletal discrepancy may not be functionally healthy or stable; therefore, otherwise preventable adult tooth extraction or jaw surgery may be required.
THE TWO PHASES OF TREATMENT
Phase One of Two Phase Treatment intercepts developmental problems that occur during a young childs active growth to establish proper upper and lower jaw development. An upper or lower jaw that is growing too much or not enough, or that is too wide or too narrow can be recognized when a child is very young. Because they are growing rapidly, children can benefit enormously from early orthopedic (bone‰ correction)/orthodontic treatment. Early childhood is also an ideal time to treat esthetic concerns that may have an impact on a young childs self-esteem. Phase One therapy rarely extends longer than 12 months.
Phase Two of treatment follows after teeth have erupted. The second phase of treatment finishes the alignment of both the jaws and the permanent teeth for proper function and excellent esthetics.
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