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FAQ: (Frequently Asked Questions:) ... Before Starting Orthodontic Treatment
At what age should an orthodontist see my child?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an evaluation by age 7. Timely detection of some orthodontic problems is important in order to take early corrective action and avoid more difficult treatment later.
What is Phase I treatment?
Phase I Early Orthodontic Treatment is treatment performed when the child has most of their baby teeth still present, and is designed to correct problems relating to skeletal growth (overbite, underbite, deep bite or crossbite), severe crowding, and habits related to the thumb or fingers. It occurs while the bite is transitioning between the primary and permanent teeth and uses the child’s own growth to effect the necessary and desired changes. The goals of Phase I are:
- To make room for future permanent teeth,
- To promote skeletal development in areas that are lacking,
- To eliminate any bad habits that might have a harmful effect on the erupting permanent teeth.
This is the time that expanders, lower lip bumpers, head gear, forsus springs and other orthodontic appliances are placed.
What is Phase II treatment?
Phase II Orthodontic treatment begins when all the permanent teeth have erupted, and is the time when we correct the bite, align the permanent teeth, and fine tune any skeletal growth or crowding issues that remain following Phase I treatment. Braces are placed in Phase II treatment.
Does every child need both Phase I and Phase II treatment?
Every child has different needs and develops in his or her own unique way. If a child presents with a growth issue, generally a Phase I treatment is necessary. Once the growth is headed in the right direction, we wait. We wait until all the permanent teeth have erupted and then decide if the teeth are malaligned or rotated, or if the bite relationship is not correct. If these issues remain, then a Phase II or “Braces Phase” is necessary to finish the correction of the bite. All these things are done in an effort to create not only a dazzling and beautiful smile, but to establish a proper bite relationship that can last a lifetime.
For further information or for an initial consultation visit,call Dr. O'Reilly's office at: 410-266-0025
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