Early Treatment
The goal of first phase treatment is to create space in preparation for normal eruption of all the permanent teeth as well as to orthopedically coordinate the upper and lower jaws to each other. An upper or lower jaw that is growing too much or not enough can be recognized and treated at an early age.
This early correction may prevent later removal of permanent teeth to correct overcrowding and/or surgical procedures to align the upper and lower jaws. Leaving such a condition untreated until all permanent teeth erupt could result in a jaw discrepancy too severe to achieve an ideal result with braces.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to begin orthodontics?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or at or around age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, however examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?
Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and the opportunity to make early interventions that will allow later treatment to be easier and have a better result. Early treatment can create space for normal eruption of teeth and use orthopedics to harmonize jaw growth. This reduces the need for extraction of permanent teeth, gives a better fit of the teeth (occlusion) and gives a better jaw profile. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing more serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.
Why is age 7 is considered the optimal time for screening?
By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite and providing an anchor to correct problems with the front teeth.
What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?
Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:
- Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
- Creating facial harmony and symmetry through influencing jaw growth
- Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Preserving space for un-erupted teeth
- Reducing the need for tooth removal
- Reducing future treatment time with braces
Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, and clean your teeth.
Why should malocclusions be treated?
According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems:
- Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Gum disease has a relation to cardiovascular disease. Crowded teeth also open the door for further space loss as back teeth tend to drift forward.
- Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping.
- Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth, uneven tooth wear and stress on jaw joints (TMJ).
- Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments.
Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile – it creates a healthier you. This is not to underestimate the value of a nice smile for self-confidence. This can be life changing as it contributes to a confident self-image and positive psychosocial development.
Diagnostic records to determine your unique treatment
Orthodontic records are important to determine the treatment goals, the type of appliances to be used, the ideal time to treat and the estimate of treatment time and cost. Records consist of x-rays, and photographs and in some cases an optical scan of your teeth.
Rest Period between the early and final phases
In this phase, the remaining permanent teeth are allowed to erupt. Retainers may be used for a while but will be discontinued if they interfere with eruption. A successful first phase will have created room for teeth to find an eruption path. Otherwise, they may become impacted or severely displaced.
The early phase sets up the dental arches for as normal development as possible. After the remaining adult teeth erupt, a final phase, if needed, will be performed to achieve the final tooth positions and bite coordination. Selective removal of certain primary (baby) teeth may be in the best interest of enhancing eruption during this resting phase. Therefore, periodic recall appointments for observation are suggested, usually on a six to twelve-month basis.
Second Phase Treatment
When there has been an early phase, a second phase or finishing phase is usually needed to finalize the position of all the teeth after the remaining permanent teeth have erupted. The treatment time is much less compared to if there had not been an early phase.