A child’s orthodontic journey can be a lot like a road trip, with each step of the process being a stop along their drive. At Serrano Orthodontics, Dr. Paul Serrano and Dr. Andrew Serrano are here to guide your child on their journey to a healthier and happier smile using a specialized orthodontic method known as two-phase treatment. Let’s delve into the specifics of two-phase treatment and how it can benefit your child!
Your Drive at Serrano Orthodontics
At Serrano Orthodontics, we strive to provide personalized, effective treatment plans for our patients. Our approach to two-phase treatment is no different. When you bring your child in for a consultation, we’ll do a thorough examination, including X-rays, to determine if two-phase treatment is the best option.
If Dr. Paul Serrano and Andrew Serrano decide to proceed with treatment, we’ll guide you through every step of the process. We use state-of-the-art technology to monitor your child’s progress and make adjustments as necessary. We aim to ensure your child’s comfort and satisfaction throughout the treatment.
What’s the Two-Phase Drive?
Two-phase treatment is a specialized orthodontic method that combines tooth straightening and facial structure adjustment. The treatment is split into two distinct phases, each with its own goals and benefits, separated by a resting period.
Two-phase treatment is made for children who show early signs of orthodontic issues. It’s a proactive approach with the goal of fixing any problems before they become more challenging to treat down the line.
The best age to start this treatment can vary, but orthodontists often recommend it for children around the age of seven who show signs of potential jaw issues. Children with crowded front teeth around the age of eight can also benefit significantly from this treatment.
Dr. Paul Serrano and Andrew Serrano will work with your child’s unique needs to determine the right time to begin treatment.
The Destinations On The Two-Phase Drive
During your orthodontic journey, you’ll stop at each phase of the two-phase treatment, which is essential in deciding the jaw’s exact movements and growths. Let’s have a look at each phase and what it entails.
Stop One: Phase One of two-phase orthodontic treatment begins when a child still has some of their baby teeth. The goal during this phase is to help the jaw develop to make room for all the permanent teeth and improve how the upper and lower jaws fit together. Depending on the patient’s needs, this phase may involve braces or other fixed or removable appliances.
Pit Stop: The Resting Period is when the remaining permanent teeth are left alone as they erupt. It’s best to allow the existing permanent teeth some freedom to move around. A successful first phase will have created room for permanent teeth to find their path. Otherwise, they may become impacted or severely displaced.
Stop Two: Phase Two usually begins once most or all the permanent teeth are in. From here, the name of the game is to finish out the work put in from Phase One. This phase ensures each tooth is in the right spot and won’t cause any future issues. Once established, the teeth will work together correctly, creating a healthy bite and a wonderful smile.
The Benefits of the Two-Phase Drive
Now that we’ve covered the basics of two-phase treatment, let’s delve into the heart of the matter: the benefits. This treatment approach is not just about straightening teeth; it’s about setting the stage for a lifetime of oral health. Here are some of the key benefits:
Paves The Way For Permanent Teeth
As children grow, their mouths need to accommodate 32 permanent teeth. Two-phase treatment ensures enough space for these teeth to erupt correctly, reducing the chances of crowding, impaction, or displacement.
Intercepts Issues
One of the main advantages of two-phase treatment is its preventative nature. By noticing potential issues early on, it can stop the need for more aggressive treatments in the future.
For instance, if a child’s jaw isn’t growing correctly, early intervention can guide its growth, eliminating the need for jaw surgery later on. Moreover, with two-phase treatment, we can create room for permanent teeth before they erupt, reducing or eliminating the need for extraction.
Creates A Healthy, Natural Smile
A great smile can do wonders for a child’s self-esteem. Ensuring that each tooth is placed correctly can create a more balanced relationship between the teeth, jaw, and face. This treatment leads to a better smile and secures proper teeth function, improving oral health.
Knocks Down Specific Issues
Two-phase treatment can also tackle specific issues like underbite, crossbite, and abnormal swallowing or speech problems. By adjusting these issues early, we can improve not only the appearance of the smile but also the overall function of the smile.
Start Your Child’s Smile Journey with Serrano Orthodontics Today
At Serrano Orthodontics, we’re ready to help your child embark on their journey toward a healthier and happier smile. If you’re ready to start or have any questions, don’t hesitate to give us a call or schedule your free consultation today.