Phase I Orthodontics, also known as interceptive orthodontics, focuses on early intervention to correct or minimize potential issues with the jaw development, the bite, and the alignment of teeth. It occurs while a child still has a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. We utilize state of the art 3D technology such as CBCT and an iTero scanners to plan the patient’s care.

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When is Phase I Orthodontics Recommended?

Phase I treatment is recommended when specific issues are identified early, such as:

• Severe Crowding: Not enough space for permanent teeth to erupt properly.
• Crossbites: Upper teeth fitting inside the lower teeth when biting down.
• Overbites/Underbites: Jaw misalignment causing bite issues.
• Open Bites: Gaps between upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed.
• Early Tooth Loss: Premature loss of baby teeth that disrupts the alignment of permanent teeth.
• Thumb-Sucking or Other Habits: Habits that affect jaw and tooth development.
• Facial Imbalance: Jaw or facial asymmetry affecting appearance and function.

Goals of Phase I Orthodontics

• Guide Jaw Growth: Address jaw discrepancies during developmental stages.
• Create Space: Prevent severe crowding by expanding the dental arches.
• Improve Bite: Correct bite issues early to avoid more complex treatment later.
• Promote Balanced Development: Ensure the upper and lower jaws grow proportionally.
• Reduce Trauma Risk: Align protruding front teeth to minimize the risk of injury.
• Simplify Future Treatment: Make braces or Phase II orthodontics (if needed) shorter and less complex.

Common Treatments in Phase I Orthodontics

• Expanders: Widen the upper jaw to create space for permanent teeth and improve bite alignment.
• Partial Braces: Align a few teeth that may be causing problems.
• Invisalign First: These are kid friendly aligners that can help expand the jaw
• Space Maintainers: Preserve space for permanent teeth if baby teeth are lost too early.
• Habit Appliances: Help children stop thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting.
• Jaw Correcting Appliances: Correct jaw growth discrepancies.

What Comes After Phase I?

After completing Phase I, children enter a resting or retention phase where their oral development is monitored as permanent teeth continue to erupt. If additional treatment is needed, it occurs during Phase II Orthodontics or traditional braces, typically in adolescence, to achieve full alignment and bite correction.

Schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our stellar orthodontists to start your journey to a harmonious smile!