Two-Phase Treatment in Carlsbad, CA

Orthodontic treatment isn’t only for permanent teeth. In fact, starting the treatment early can increase the chances of developing healthy and perfectly aligned teeth. 

Two-phase treatment is a specialized orthodontic process that utilizes the growing facial structure of children to maximize the results of teeth straightening procedures. 

Keep reading to learn all about the two-phase orthodontic treatments offered by Dr. Adams at Full Smile Orthodontics in Carlsbad, California, that can help lay a solid foundation for ideal and perfectly functional teeth. 

Phase I

Phase I of the two-phase orthodontic treatment is also called early interceptive treatment and is provided to children before the eruption of their permanent teeth. Children often show signs of teeth and jaw issues early on, which can be curbed in the initial stages using orthodontic treatment.

The primary purpose of the Phase I treatment is to encourage jaw development to properly accommodate all the permanent teeth. Thus, the procedure helps treat dental abnormalities and prevent serious dental problems like overbite, crossbite, overcrowding, etc. 

Dr. Adams utilizes various therapeutic techniques like braces, headgear, and retainers to treat these irregularities. The treatment may last between 9-18 months, depending on the severity of the condition. 

Resting Period

This phase is the waiting period during which the permanent teeth erupt. If the first phase of the treatment is successful, the permanent teeth will erupt without any hindrance. 

Dr. Adams will continuously monitor the progress of the teeth and design a treatment plan for the second phase depending on the condition of the permanent teeth. 

Phase II

The second phase of the two-phase treatment begins after the eruption of the permanent teeth, around age 11. It includes treatment methods that create specific spaces for each tooth in the mouth to avoid dental problems. 

At the end of the process, all teeth will be in sync with each other. 

The second phase mainly consists of braces, other corrective appliances, and retainers that treat alignment issues in the teeth and jaw. After the second phase, the patient benefits from improved dental health and an aesthetically pleasing smile.

When Is a Two-Phase Treatment Required?

At Full Smile Orthodontics in Carlsbad, California, Dr. Adams will recommend two-phase treatment for early developmental problems like:

• Overcrowding at an early age
• Protruding teeth
• Biting or chewing issues
• Signs of crossbite, underbite, overbite, etc.
• Sucking thumb after the age of 5
• Losing the first tooth before the age of 5

If you want to know more about orthodontic treatment options for your children, schedule an appointment with Dr. Daniel Adams at Full Smile Orthodontics. Call us at (760) 804-0080 or visit us at 6965 El Camino Real #201, Carlsbad, CA 92009.