Some of our younger patients can benefit from two phases of treatment. This ensures that our team can guide the growth of the jaw to make room for existing teeth and the permanent teeth that have yet to erupt. And we are pleased to offer this type of treatment using Invisalign clear aligners. This means your child will have all the benefits that accompany Invisalign treatment, including:
- The ability to treat a wide variety of issues from the simple to the complex
- Better oral hygiene thanks to the removable aligners
- Increased comfort since there are no brackets or wires to irritate the inside of the mouth
- The ability to curb bad oral habits, such as tongue thrusting or thumb sucking
What are the goals of two-phase treatment?
During the first phase of treatment, our goal is to ensure proper jaw development that will not only ensure the permanent teeth can erupt properly but that the upper and lower jaws can fit together correctly. Addressing these issues early can prevent the need for extraction of permanent teeth and/or surgical intervention later.
The goal of the second phase is to create a smile that is both beautiful and functional. If your child has undergone the first phase of treatment, the second phase can typically be much quicker because the necessary structural changes have already been accomplished.
When is two-phase treatment recommended?
Two-phase treatment isn’t necessary for every orthodontic patient. It is recommended in cases where further delaying treatment could lead to more serious orthodontic issues. It typically begins around the age of 8-9 when the permanent front teeth are erupting.
What orthodontic issues can two-phase treatment correct?
There are many reasons why your orthodontist may recommend two-phase treatment. They can include:
- Crossbites
- Underbites
- Deep bite or bites that excessively overlap
- Open bites
- Disproportionate jaw growth
- Protruding teeth
- Bad oral habits, such as thumbsucking
- Severe crowding
- Spacing issues
Early treatment can turn severe problems into much simpler issues that can easily be treated with braces or Invisalign during the second phase of treatment.
Two-phase treatment using Invisalign allows for all of the advantages that come with using Invisalign, as well as the assurance that your child’s orthodontic issue is being corrected predictably and comfortably. And at GoDontics™, it’s never been easier. Your child’s smile can be corrected without the hassle of frequent office visits and we’ll even deliver the aligners right to your door. Schedule your child’s consultation today by calling 844-4GOSMILE.
What orthodontic issues can two-phase treatment correct?
Cross Bite
When the top teeth and bottom teeth do not come together correctly, this is a malocclusion called a crossbite.
Crowded Teeth
Crowded teeth occur when you don't have enough room for your teeth to fit properly, so your teeth can bunch up, overlap and twist.
Gapped Teeth
Gapped Teeth can be the result of teeth that are too small or too large for your jaw.
Open Bite
An open bite is a type of malocclusion that occurs when the jaw cannot close correctly due to teeth that are not aligned.
Over Bite
Overbite is a type of malocclusion where an overlap happens because the upper teeth overlap the lower set of teeth.
Straighter Teeth
Aligners are one of the safest and non-invasive ways to straighten their teeth for a healthy smile.
Under Bite
An underbite happens when the lower teeth extend farther than the teeth of your upper jaw.