What is phase 1 orthodontics
This stage usually begins when the child is between 7 and 12 years of age—their growth stage. The main purpose of this stage is to develop the jawbones to better accommodate the teeth. In most cases, this is accomplished through orthodontic treatment.
Phase 1 treatments can help correct:
- Habits such as tongue thrusting and thumb sucking
- Airway problems and mouth breathing
- Deep overbites, Narrow arches, and Cross-bites
- Crowded teeth due to narrow arches
- Underdeveloped jaws
What type of appliances are used for Phase 1 treatment
Many simple problems in our younger patients can be corrected with a removable appliance [or ‘plate’]. Other problems require specially made soldered appliances that are specially designed to be as robust and simple as possible to make them easier to wear. These soldered appliances are all custom made and are cemented onto the back teeth. This has the added benefit of not having to remind our younger patient to remember to wear their appliance. In a few cases, phase 1 treatment might involve ‘mini’ or ‘partial’ braces’. We will carefully help you with our recommendations as to what is best suited to your child’s needs.