What is Two-Phase Orthodontics?

Kelly Orthodontics

Orthodontists today can successfully correct most problems regardless of the patient’s age. But that does not mean that the orthodontic treatment starting age does not matter. In fact, it may play a significant role in the total time and expenses required for the completion of the orthodontic treatment.

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that involves facial and jaw changes along with straightening teeth.  This process allows Dr. Dan Kelly to create a healthy functional smile with results that remain stable after treatment.

As a child grows, both the upper jaw and lower jaw will grow in three dimensions. This growth will decide the final positioning of the mid and lower face. Ideally, the upper jaw should have a more forward position and be a bit wider than the lower jaw. Sometimes, the upper and lower jaws will grow at different rates and create alignment issues between the upper and lower teeth. If a child's bite problems require intervention, Dr. Kelly can use a variety of appliances to change the rate, direction or amount of jaw growth.

How does Two-Phase Orthodontics work?

Two-phase orthodontics starts with interceptive treatment. Such treatment usually occurs between the ages of seven and ten in order to make more space for developing teeth, shift teeth, or manipulate growth. The goal of interceptive, or Phase I, treatment is to take advantage of growth potential and to catch an orthodontic problem before it gets out of hand. Addressing developmental concerns while the bones are growing gives Dr. Kelly the ability to avoid more invasive approaches in the future. Typically, this first phase of treatment will be short and will address a specific problem. Once phase one treatment is completed, your child will be monitored by Dr. Kelly until they are ready for phase two.

Once a majority of the adult teeth have erupted, the second phase can begin. This most commonly occurs at the age of 12 or 13. The goal of Phase II treatment is to achieve ideal alignment and bite relationships with all of the permanent teeth.

It is important to have your child evaluated by Dr. Kelly from an early age. Even if you think your child’s smile is perfect, early diagnosis and treatment can have a lasting improvement on the function of their teeth and their overall appearance.

Not every child requires Phase I treatment. Only some children with certain bite and alignment concerns require early intervention. If you are interested in learning more about Two-Phase Orthodontics, contact our St.Charles orthodontic office to schedule an initial consultation for your child.

More Than Just a Pretty Smile

Kelly Orthodontics

 

One of the biggest and most noticeable advantages of orthodontics, beyond a transformed smile, is the overall improvement in self-confidence that comes from looking one’s best. This is the most anticipated reward that the entire Kelly Orthodontics team looks forward to when a patient completes their orthodontic treatment. But the benefits of braces go well beyond pure aesthetics. Braces ensure correct bite and tooth alignment which has many positive side-effects.

Better Breath - If you suffer from misaligned teeth you may also suffer from bad breath. When your teeth are crowded or crooked, adequately cleaning them becomes difficult. Bacteria finds its way into every nook and cranny and begins building up between teeth causing bad breath. Straight teeth eliminates those nooks and crannies making it are much easier to brush away the bacteria that causes bad breath. 

Reduced Risk of Gum Disease - Patients with severely crooked teeth naturally have crevices that are not experienced by individuals with straight teeth. These crevices make it more difficult for patients to achieve the required level of dental hygiene needed to prevent health issues from developing. Correcting the teeth with the use of braces can eliminate these hard-to-reach areas, thus decreasing the overall risk for gum disease. 

Reduced Risk of Bone Erosion - Misaligned teeth can result in jawbone erosion or bone loss. This happens when bacteria start eating away at the bones. Bones and tissues are less likely to erode and can continue to support the teeth if they are aligned properly. Braces align the teeth helping to prevent erosion of the gums and alleviating pressure from the jawbone.

Better Digestion - Your teeth play an important role in digestion. Before food ever enters your stomach, it has been partially digested by the teeth. If your teeth are misaligned, it can be difficult to chew food into smaller bits. As a result, the stomach takes a bit longer to digest food. Braces can straighten your teeth for optimal alignment, helping you thoroughly chew your food. Once food can be chewed properly with the help of braces, it can be more easily and fully digested.

Alleviation of Speech Impairment - If you have teeth that are misaligned, you may have speech problems or make whistling sounds when saying certain words. Braces can adjust the positioning of the teeth to allow for clearer, more professional speech. They can also shift problem teeth that may be causing speech impediments. Word slurring can also be improved with the help of braces by realigning the jaw, providing room for your tongue to move more freely.

There are a variety of different kinds of braces that offer excellent teeth straightening solutions for the variety of smiles we see every day at Kelly  Orthodontics. From traditional metal braces to clear braces or Invisalign, there are so many benefits that come with achieving straight, perfect teeth. 

Starting orthodontic treatment will lead to numerous benefits in the future. Dr. Kelly and the Kelly Orthodontics team are happy to explain more if you have further questions regarding the benefits of braces. Contact our St. Charles office to schedule your complimentary consultation today.