Phase I (Interceptive) Orthodontic treatment
The goal of Phase one treatment is to develop both jaws to ultimately accommodate all permanent teeth and to correct upper and lower jaws so that they fit each other correctly.
Some children may develop early jaw problems as early as age four. Your dentist can recognize the signs that early orthodontic treatment for your child may be necessary, he may see: one arch smaller than the other arch, or larger, too narrow or even too wide.
Most phase one treatments begin at the age of seven, this allows the specialist to take advantage of the child’s still developing bone growth. Orthodontic appliances are used to encourage bone growth, these appliances are sometimes glued in place; other times are removable. Most dentists know the benefits of early orthodontic treatment but are unsure of the ideal time to start with phase one treatment. Dr. Saba offers complimentary consultation, so we, at Saba orthodontics, encourage you to take advantage of this. Early interceptive treatment can prevent the removal of adult teeth to correct overcrowding and eliminate the need for surgical procedures to expand or align the upper and lower jaws. We have found that children aged 7-8 to be the most compliant of all our patients!
Phase II (Braces) Orthodontic treatment
Post Phase I treatment, Phase II may be suggested. This treatment can accomplish the ideal healthy, functional and esthetically pleasing results that will last a lifetime.
Phase II includes braces of all types, metal, ceramic even the removable Invisalign. Dr. Saba also is one of the few orthodontists in this area to offer behind the teeth braces – Incognito. This technology is relatively new to the states, less than five years.
What we sometimes hear from parents is that they will skip Phase I and wait until all the baby teeth have come out and all the permanent ones are in place. This mindset usually ends up being regretted. In a case like this, Phase II will end up being a longer and more costly route to go, often times involving extractions of permanent teeth.
To learn more about two phase Orthodontics visit our website at www.sabaortho.com, or call us at (703)404-SABA.
