Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that combines tooth straightening and physical facial changes. Sims Orthodontics in Pensacola, Florida uses the two-phase treatment to give children the healthiest, most functional, and most beautiful result, which will remain stable throughout their lives. In some cases, putting off this treatment can result in needing more invasive treatment later in life. This is why early treatment is the most effective way of achieving well-timed and long-lasting results!

Phase One: The Basis for a Beautiful, Healthy Smile

In Phase One, the goal is to help the jaw develop in a way that will accommodate all of the permanent teeth and improve the way the upper and lower jaws fit together. This is ideal for children who have upper jaws that are growing too much or are too narrow, as well as those with crowded front teeth. These issues indicate candidacy for early orthodontic treatment.

Early treatment can help prevent the removal of permanent teeth later in life, as well as the need for surgery to realign the jaws. We will not give your child a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather a unique plan that fits their needs. Individual treatment plan, which include the type of appliance to be used, the duration of treatment, and the frequency of visits, will be established during your child’s initial consultation.

The Resting Period

In the resting period, your child’s remaining permanent teeth will be left alone as they erupt. A successful Phase One means enough room has been made for those permanent teeth to find an eruption path. Without the extra room, those remaining permanent teeth could become impacted or severely displaced. At the end of the first phase of treatment, teeth are not in their final positions. This will be accomplished in the second phase of treatment. Selective removal of certain baby teeth may be in the best interest of enhancing eruption during this resting phase, so periodic recall appointments for observation are necessary, usually on a six to nine-month basis.

Phase Two: Stay Healthy with Your New Smile

The goal of Phase Two is to make sure each tooth has an exact location in the mouth where it is in harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue, and other teeth. When this equilibrium is established, the teeth will function together properly.

At the beginning of Phase One, orthodontic records were made and a diagnosis and treatment plan was established. Certain types of appliances were used to correct and realign the teeth and jaw. Phase Two begins when all permanent teeth have erupted, and usually requires braces on all the teeth for an average of 24 months. Retainers are worn after this phase to ensure you retain your beautiful smile.