When it comes to braces and creating that perfect smile, one approach that many families find helpful is 2-Phase Treatment – orthodontic treatment that is completed in two phases, with a resting period in between.

Phase 1 usually begins when your child is between six and ten years old. During your initial complimentary evaluation, Dr. Cranford will take a good look at your child’s teeth and jaw to see if any early treatment is needed. This initial visit is all about setting the stage for success!

In Phase 1, the focus is on spotting and fixing developing dental issues early on. This proactive approach can help avoid more complicated treatments later. Here’s what we aim to do:

• Correct Jaw Growth: If there are any jaw alignment issues, we’ll work on fixing them early. This can set your child up for better jaw function as they grow.
• Manage Overcrowding: We want to make sure there’s enough space for permanent teeth to come in and avoid dealing with crowded teeth later.
• Facilitate Proper Eruption: If permanent teeth are given enough room to grow in the right way, it helps ensure that they come in straight and healthy.

This phase typically lasts about 6 to 12 months. Once it’s complete, we’ll schedule regular check-ups every six months to keep an eye on your child’s dental development. Think of these visits as catch-up sessions to make sure everything is on track!

Phase 2 is recommended when most of your child’s permanent teeth have come in, typically around ages eleven to thirteen. This is when we can really get to work on achieving that beautiful smile!

This stage is all about fine-tuning the smile. We focus on:

• Aligning the Teeth: This might involve braces or clear aligners to get those teeth perfectly lined up. It’s the step where the magic really happens!
• Adjusting the Bite: We’ll make sure the upper and lower teeth fit together nicely. A proper bite not only looks good but also helps maintain long-term oral health, improves speech, and provides easier chewing.

Phase 2 can last between 12 to 24 months, depending on how much adjustment is needed. We’ll be with you every step of the way, providing updates and celebrating milestones!

The great thing about 2-Phase Treatment is that it allows us to tackle orthodontic issues at the right time. By addressing problems early, we can help your child avoid more significant challenges down the road. Plus, it often leads to more efficient treatment overall, saving you time and potential future costs.

At Cranford Orthodontics, we’re here to make the journey to a beautiful smile as smooth and enjoyable as possible. We truly care about your child’s dental health and happiness. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about 2-Phase Treatment, contact our friendly team! We can’t wait to join you and your child on this exciting adventure to a fantastic smile!