In phase 1 orthodontics, orthodontists treat patients between the ages of six and nine. Those patients have mixed dentition. This means patients have a mix of permanent teeth and deciduous or baby teeth. Phase 1 orthodontics addresses problems in the mixed dentition period. These are things that can result in severe overcrowding and unhealthy tooth wear. Many patients also struggle with proper dental hygiene and may worry about others teasing them.
This is an effective preventive line of care. But, not every child will benefit from phase 1 orthodontics. The orthodontist will assess the patient’s potential needs. Then the pediatric orthodontist can take proactive measures to create a better outcome. Children need these preventive methods for many reasons, including:
There are many reasons why a patient will need phase 1 orthodontics. But, for many of these conditions, the treatments are similar. Overcrowding — when there is not enough jaw space for the number of teeth — can cause teeth to turn or grow out misaligned. This is a common occurrence in pediatric orthodontics. In children, the jaw is sometimes too small for the number and size of teeth that are present. Permanent teeth that erupt that are much larger than deciduous teeth can also create the conditions for overcrowding. Dentists treat the issue of overcrowding in different ways, depending on the patient.
Tooth extraction involves identifying and removing teeth. These teeth may be deciduous or permanent. Their removal can create space for existing teeth or for teeth that have not yet erupted. Sometimes, a tooth is preventing a needed tooth from erupting. An orthodontist may extract one or more teeth. That way, the remaining teeth can be guided into alignment.
Orthodontists may use headgear and braces in a limited way. These tools will begin to move the teeth into alignment once the orthodontist has created space. Patients often still have a mix of teeth. So, the orthodontist places these braces only on certain teeth. Patients can get braces during phase 1 orthodontics even if they do not have any teeth extracted. Orthodontists often decide on installing braces and headgear if the patient can cooperate.
Spacers and expansion appliances hold space in the mouth after the orthodontist extracts a tooth or teeth. Spacers keep teeth from migrating into the space. Teeth that have not erupted yet are then more likely to erupt on their own without any surgical help. Once they have erupted in adolescence, the orthodontist may need to take further corrective action, but not always. The orthodontist will remove the spacer or expansion appliance when there is evidence the tooth is erupting. The orthodontist will also take them out if they must surgically expose the tooth.
Phase 1 orthodontics can help patients prevent serious dental issues and improve appearance. It leads to a healthier long-term outcome with less surgical intervention. Orthodontists hope to avoid more intensive oral therapies and surgeries later on. The orthodontist can explore the options with the patient’s caregivers to decide on a plan of care.
Are you considering phase 1 orthodontics in the Reston area? Get more information at https://www.orthodonticprecision.com.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Phase 1 Orthodontics in Reston, VA.
Digital x-rays reduce your exposure to radiation by up to 80% compared to traditional ones. X-rays are an essential diagnostic tool dentists use to examine the insides of a tooth, gum tissues, and the bone structures in the mouth.Getting a digital x-ray is a non-invasive procedure that does not cause any pain. It quickly produces…
Palatal expanders are used to widen a patient’s palate (the roof of the mouth), creating more space for their top set of teeth. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends bringing your child in for their first bite assessment by the time they reach seven.At this stage in their development, their bite should be established enough…
Baby teeth are more important than many people realize, which is why doctors may recommend a stainless steel crowns when a tooth has decay. These teeth do fall out, but before that happens, primary or baby teeth serve many functions. Baby teeth help in biting and chewing food and in proper speech development. Most children…
An accelerated orthodontic treatment is much better than traditional teeth straightening systems. Patients always want to know how long they have to wear teeth-straightening devices. With this orthodontic treatment, you will not need years to finish your treatment. If you want to learn more about this treatment and how it works, here are the details.There…
Digital x-rays reduce your exposure to radiation by up to 80% compared to traditional ones. X-rays are an essential diagnostic tool dentists use to examine the insides of a tooth, gum tissues, and the bone structures in the mouth.Getting a digital x-ray is a non-invasive procedure that does not cause any pain. It quickly produces…
Palatal expanders are used to widen a patient’s palate (the roof of the mouth), creating more space for their top set of teeth. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends bringing your child in for their first bite assessment by the time they reach seven.At this stage in their development, their bite should be established enough…