Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment: Baby Teeth and Braces

Does your child need two-phase orthodontic treatment? Many parents wonder if their children should get braces before or after all their baby teeth are gone. In many cases, children may only need braces once all their adult teeth are in. However, in others, an orthodontist may suggest treatment before all their baby teeth are out.

So how do you know when your child should get braces? The answer depends on the individual case and what your orthodontist recommends.

Let’s take a closer look at braces for children and when the best time to get them is.

Getting Braces with Baby Teeth

The American Association of Orthodontists advises all children to visit an orthodontist by age seven for an evaluation. This is because braces can correct certain alignment issues before all the baby teeth are gone. Addressing issues at this stage of development can create the space needed for adult teeth to come in correctly.

Plus, the earlier the treatment, the less invasive and costly braces may be down the road. That’s why your orthodontist may suggest your child early orthodontic treatment. Once adult teeth erupt, braces become a more involved and lengthy process.

Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment: What It Is and Why It’s Used

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is beneficial when a child has severe issues requiring more than just one set of braces. This type of treatment involves two distinct phases. The first phase is when some of the baby teeth are still present. The second phase is after the permanent teeth have grown in.

The goal is to correct any underlying issues before the permanent teeth arrive so they can align properly.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment

The main benefit of two-phase orthodontic treatment is that it allows for more precise corrections than one-phase would allow. This means your child can avoid potential problems caused by jaw issues, misalignment, or overcrowding.

Additionally, the second set of braces will require a shorter treatment time. This is because the initial phase helps to prepare the mouth for the second phase. This reduces the amount of time needed for adjustments later on.

On the downside, it tends to require more visits than a single-phase treatment since two separate phases are involved. Furthermore, it tends to be more expensive than a single set.

Since this type of treatment is quite complex, you will want to ensure you find an experienced orthodontist like Dr. Yazji.

Conclusion

Depending on the severity of your child’s orthodontic issues, they may need braces before their baby teeth fall out. However, this is not always the case, and only an experienced orthodontist can make this determination. Some patients require early orthodontic treatment to prevent mayor issues that can be corrected more easily at an early age.

Two-phase orthodontic treatments can offer many benefits, but they also come with certain drawbacks—namely, cost and complexity. Nevertheless, it may be your best option if your child has severe dental issues.

Ultimately though, it’s important to discuss all options with an experienced orthodontist. They can answer your questions and help you determine what course of action works best for you and your family. Contact us today with any questions you have about braces for children