One-Phase vs. Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment
The team at Kellyn Hodges Orthodontics has helped patients throughout the Philadelphia area smile better. This goes for patients of all ages as we carefully customize each orthodontic procedure to the needs of the patient, taking age and the nature of the treatment process into account each time.
Sometimes orthodontic treatments are more complicated than you may think. For example, there are one-phase treatments and two-phase treatments available for different levels of malocclusion. Let's look at each right now.
What is one-phase orthodontic treatment?
One-phase orthodontic treatment is done when all of a patient's permanent teeth are in place. This means using full braces in order to adjust the overall alignment of the patient's teeth. This is the kind of orthodontic care that most people know well.
What is two-phase orthodontic treatment?
Two-phase orthodontic treatment refers to a multi-step orthodontic procedure that is implemented at an early age and then completed once all of the patient's permanent teeth at in place. It is typically reserved for children who have major issues with malocclusion, such as extreme crowding, signs of impaction, major issues with underbites or overbites, and other early issues with baby teeth or permanent teeth.
There are generally three parts to two-phase orthodontic treatment:
- Stage One - Often taking place between the ages of 7 and 11, this first stage of orthodontic treatment will involve creating proper space and alignment for the patient's incoming permanent teeth. Adjustments to the jaw, the shape of the dental ridges, and tooth alignment are addressed.
- Resting Stage - Between stage one and stage two, orthodontists allows patients a certain amount of time for their permanent teeth to fully emerge.
- Stage Two - Once all permanent teeth at in place (generally ages 11 to 13), full braces can be used to address the patient's overall dental alignment so that he or she can have the straightest and healthiest smile possible.
How common is two-phase orthodontic treatment?
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is most common when children suffer from major malocclusion and severe problems with the health and condition of their smile. Many patients can have straight and healthy smiles thanks to one-phase orthodontic treatment so long as the timing of the treatment is properly considered and implemented.
Are there advantages to one-phase or two-phase orthodontic treatment?
One-phase orthodontic treatment is generally more ideal when it can be done since it involves just a single use of full braces rather than multiple stages to achieve optimal dental health and alignment. However, two-phase approaches to orthodontic treatment are sometimes the best option if a child has major issues that will need to be addressed.
Which kind of orthodontic care would be best for my child?
It's important that you bring your child to regular dental visits so that they can get the proper treatment they need as soon as possible. If orthodontic care is required, it can then be determine what kind of orthodontic treatment is most ideal and a treatment plan can be devised.
Contact Kellyn Hodges Orthodontics for a Consultation
To learn more about your options for advanced orthodontic treatment and how we can help your smile look its very best, be sure to contact our orthodontic treatment specialists today. We at Kellyn Hodges Orthodontics look forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the healthiest and best-looking smile possible.