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 Frisco area? Get more information at http://www.pricefamilyortho.com.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Orthodontics aims to straighten teeth and address a variety of issues that can develop as a result of poor teeth or jaw alignment. Issues that can be treated with orthodontic devices include spaces between teeth, crossbites, and crooked teeth.Orthodontics can also be used as preventative dentistry because it can be used to fix issues with…
Every person has unique reasons for seeking orthodontics. Some seek treatment to enhance the way that their smile looks, while others might want to address more serious issues, like not being able to speak properly due to teeth misalignment. Dentists often recommend orthodontics if they notice abnormalities like poor teeth alignment or a lack of…
Consulting with a dentist about using orthodontics like braces is the first step toward getting straighter teeth. Orthodontic devices move teeth to a more optimal alignment by applying constant force on them. Treatment times vary for each patient based on their unique condition, but it is typically somewhere between 12 to 36 months.Misaligned teeth can…
There are different types of appliances to choose from when it comes to orthodontics. These appliances typically work by pushing on the wearer’s teeth, gradually improving their alignment over time. Malocclusions, or bite problems, that can be treated with oral appliances include: Crooked teeth, spaces between teeth, overbites, underbites, and crossbites.Addressing poor teeth alignment provides…