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Age 7 is when the first set of permanent molars and most of the permanent front teeth should be in. There are certain problems that should be corrected at this early age, but most 7-year-olds don’t need braces. It is very important to monitor the growth and development of the teeth and jaws at this age and as children get older.
When children who have some permanent teeth and some baby teeth (typically 7 to 10-year-olds) need dental braces, this treatment is usually called Phase 1, Interceptive or Early Orthodontic Treatment. This type of treatment usually lasts 9 months to 1 year and has specific goals, like correcting a cross-bite or making more room for permanent teeth. This early treatment is almost always followed by another round of braces when all the permanent teeth grow in. Getting treatment at the right age is important to ensure the best long-term results. Investing in braces for your children sets them up for a lifetime of healthy, beautiful teeth.
When kids who have all their permanent teeth need braces, this treatment is called Full or Comprehensive Treatment. This usually involves a full set of upper and lower braces to align and position all the teeth in their ideal position for a beautiful smile and a healthy functional bite.
Most children and teens opt for metal braces with the colors they can change at each appointment. Braces are cool! And for many kids, it’s fun to be able to show them off. For those teens who aren’t interested in braces, there’s Invisalign Teen. More and more teens are deciding that Invisalign clear aligners are the way that they want to go through orthodontic treatment.
After your child’s orthodontic evaluation, your orthodontist may talk about something called “two-phase treatment.” If you’ve never heard this term before, you’re not alone! Many people aren’t aware of what two-phase treatment is, and as a result, find it a little intimidating.
That said, we want to assure you it is nowhere near as daunting as it sounds, and it’s actually pretty straightforward. Two-phase treatment is orthodontic treatment completed in two separate phases.
The first phase centers around specific problems that need to be addressed as early as possible and the second stage is dedicated to full alignment of the teeth, jaws and, facial structures. Certain circumstances necessitate handling orthodontics in two phases, this allows us at DaBell & Paventy Orthodontics to bring not only a healthy, beautiful smile to our patients but also a smile that is long-lasting!
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process combining tooth straightening and physical, facial changes. The purpose of two-phase treatment is to maximize the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, esthetic result that will remain stable throughout your life.
Children can benefit tremendously from early-phase treatment. Receiving early treatment may prevent the removal of permanent teeth later in life, or the need for surgical procedures to realign the jaws.
Please contact one of our four practices to schedule an appointment for a complimentary orthodontic evaluation. Early treatment now will give your child a healthy, beautiful smile for the future.
and answers all your questions about your new smile journey!
