What is Phase One Treatment?
We sometimes refer to Phase One treatment as early interceptive treatment. It is an orthodontic treatment for children between 6 and 10 years old. In other words, before all their permanent teeth have come in. This early treatment can help correct problems with the growth of their jaw and underbites or overbites. These conditions can cause overcrowding when their permanent teeth come in. In other words, they can cause your child to have crooked teeth. So, early detection and prevention are essential.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that you bring your child in for an orthodontic checkup before they reach seven years old. It is much easier to correct teeth and jaw problems before all of their baby teeth have fallen out.
When is Phase One Treatment Necessary?
Every child is different, so the easiest way to know if Phase One is needed is to give us a call and schedule an appointment for them.
Here are some of the things an orthodontist will look for:
- Overcrowded teeth
- Trouble chewing or biting
- Speech impediments
- Protruding teeth
- Teeth that do not come together when their jaw is closed
- Their jaw is too far forward or too far back
- Breathing through their mouth
- Sucking their thumb
- Abnormal facial structure
Even if you don’t notice any of those things, it is still important to bring your child in for a consultation before all their permanent teeth come in.
Of course, you may find out that their teeth and jaw are growing perfectly. And that can be a comfort to you. But if they aren’t, it can make their treatment much shorter and easier than if you waited a few more years.
Benefits of Phase One Treatment
The main benefit of this early treatment is to prevent more serious problems from happening later. For example, early treatment can prevent problems such as impacted teeth or jaw surgery later in your child’s life.
Dr. McDonough trained in dentofacial orthopedics. He can diagnose and treat any misalignments with your child’s teeth, as well as their jaw and facial structure.
Facial structure abnormalities are another critical reason why it’s so important to start treatment as early as age seven potentially. Things that may require some annoying headgear for six months at age 7 could require major surgery later in life.
OWLS — Complementary Program for Children Ages 7-12
Phase One TreatmentThe Orthodontic Wellness Program, or “OWLS” program at McDonough Orthodontics, consists of regular complimentary visits for our young patients. Our OWLS program is the beginning of a healthy, beautiful, and lifelong smile. To learn more about the program, you can read our OWLS blog on our website.
Summary
Not every child will require Phase I treatment. But your best assurance is to have them seen by an orthodontist. If there is any problem, early treatment can prevent it from becoming more problematic.
We care about your child’s health and future well-being, so please get in touch with us and schedule an appointment. We will work with you and answer any questions you might have.
Dr. David McDonough