Phase I orthodontic treatment is sometimes called “interceptive treatment” because it is done at a young age to address developing problems with a child’s teeth, bite, and jaw. Interceptive Phase I treatment can prevent developing issues from worsening as a child grows. Left untreated, these problems will get more difficult and possibly more invasive and expensive to treat at a later age.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children receive their first orthodontic evaluation at age 7 to determine if they qualify for Phase I orthodontic treatment. However, most children won’t need orthodontic treatment until all their permanent teeth come in – this usually happens closer to age 12 or 13. Read more about Adolescent Orthodontic Treatment.
How can I tell if my child might benefit from early orthodontics?
Only a qualified orthodontist like Dr. McClure can determine if your child might benefit from early orthodontic treatment. Still, there are some telltale signs, including:
- Losing baby teeth before age 5
- Biting or chewing issues
- Thumb or finger sucking after age 3
- Crowded teeth
- Protruding teeth
- Crossbite
- Underbite
Phase I orthodontic treatment is intended to correct any major tooth and bite problems and reduce the possibility of future issues.
If you’re unsure whether your child has any of these tooth or bite problems, the best place to start is by scheduling a consultation with Dr. McClure.
What is Involved with Phase I Orthodontic Treatment?
Children who receive Phase I orthodontic treatment may receive a combination of braces, Invisalign, or other appliances to help with bite or tooth eruption problems. Because each child’s teeth and jaw are unique, the treatment prescribed will be tailored to the individual. Some of the treatment appliances recommended may include:
- Palatal Expander
- Metal, clear, or WildSmiles braces
- Headgear
- Invisalign First
- Retainers
How Long Does Phase I Treatment Take?
This time will vary depending on what tooth or bite problems must be addressed. Phase I treatment is generally quicker than Phase II treatment.
Phase I orthodontic treatment usually lasts 9-18 months*, while Phase II treatment typically lasts 12-30 months*. Depending on the individual case and your child’s commitment to Dr. McClure’s care plan, the process may go faster or slower.
To see if your child can benefit from early orthodontics, book an appointment at Kaitlin McClure Orthodontics. Call the office or request an appointment online today.
*Treatment lengths are determined on a case-by-case basis.
What Happens After Phase I Braces Treatment?
Once a child has completed Phase I braces treatment they will enter into a retention and observation stage. Most children will receive some type of retainer and be evaluated at the orthodontic office every 6-12 months. During this period, Dr. McClure and her team will evaluate the retainers’ condition, observe the child’s growth and development, and determine if and when Phase II braces will be needed.
Will Phase I Orthodontic Treatment Prevent the Need for Braces as an Adolescent?
Early treatment can correct significant problems, prevent more severe problems from developing, and simplify future treatment. Because all permanent teeth have not yet erupted when early treatment is performed, their final alignment may not have been corrected. Typically, a shortened comprehensive phase of treatment (Phase II) in the adolescent or teen years, after all the permanent teeth have erupted, completes the correction. However, in some circumstances, further orthodontic treatment may not be indicated.
