Orthodontic treatment is a well-worth-it commitment we sometimes split into two phases.
In phase one, the goal is to help the jaw develop in a way that will accommodate the permanent teeth and improve the way the upper and lower jaws fit together. Planning now can save your child’s smile later: early treatment may prevent the removal of permanent teeth later in life, or the need for surgical procedures to realign the jaws.
Children often exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop. An upper jaw that is growing too much or is too narrow is addressed in phase one, as well as any crowded teeth.
Between phases, we have patients take a resting period while the remaining permanent teeth erupt. It’s best to allow the existing permanent teeth some freedom of movement, otherwise, they may become impacted or displaced.
In phase two, when all permanent teeth have erupted, the goal is to make sure each tooth has an exact location in the mouth where it is in harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue and other teeth. Phase two usually involves full upper and lower braces, and typically requires braces on all the teeth for an average of 24 months. Retainers are worn after this phase to ensure your child retains their beautiful smile.
Every child is an individual, and we’ll help you understand what is best for your child and not simply put them into a standardized treatment plan. Call us for a free consultation to get started.
Brought to you by:
Brad Chvatal, DMD, MS
(541) 683-8490 • EugeneBraces.com
1400 Valley River Drive, 240, Eugene
1130 E. Main Street, Cottage Grove
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