Phase One Orthodontic Treatment
Phase I Orthodontics or early interceptive treatment has several advantages. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends children get their first check-up with an AAO orthodontist at the first recognition of an orthodontic problem, but no later than age 7. Around that age, children have a mix of primary (baby) and permanent teeth. As permanent teeth take the place of baby teeth, and as the face and jaws grow, an examination gives the orthodontist a wealth of information. If a problem exists, or if one is developing, your orthodontist can advise you on whether treatment for braces or other orthodontic appliances is recommended, when it should begin, and estimate its length. Some of the advantages for early orthodontics treatment include:
Influence jaw growth in a positive manner
Improve the width of the dental arches
May reduce the need to extract permanent teeth
Reduce or eliminate the need for jaw surgery
Lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
Correct harmful oral habits
Simplify and/or shorten treatment time for definitive orthodontic treatment (phase II)
Reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth
Improve speech development
Improve position of first molars
Guide permanent teeth into more favorable positions
Preserve or gain space for erupting teeth
