Early Orthodontic Treatment Richland, WA
Younger children sometimes show signs of an orthodontic issue. It is important to consider possible orthodontic options for smaller patients. Phase 1 orthodontics are early orthodontics treatment options for juveniles who do not have their permanent adult teeth yet.
Early orthodontics are available at Midtown Dental in Richland and the surrounding area. The providers at our office can evaluate young children for potential orthodontic issues. Early intervention may benefit children who may have complex bite or orthodontic issues and prevent more extensive dental treatments later on.
Child orthodontics treatment may require a two-phased approach, starting as early as age 7 to correct some issues. Our team can help you determine if your child needs early orthodontic treatment. Call us at (509) 392-7180 to find out if your child should be evaluated for early orthodontics treatment.
Early Orthodontic Problems and Their Causes
When children still have their baby teeth, they may show signs of needing early orthodontic interventions to correct certain problems. Children with extra teeth or exceptionally crowded teeth may be candidates for early treatment. Teeth that are excessively spaced out may also be a sign that early orthodontics could be beneficial.
Besides the spacing and positioning of the teeth, early orthodontics may also benefit children with bite problems. An underbite, where the lower teeth jut out further from the upper teeth, and a crossbite, where the jaw appears to shift to the side, may be successfully treated with early orthodontics. Genetics is the most common reason why a young child may have a bite problem, but some of these problems may be linked to thumb-sucking, prolonged pacifier use, or bottle use.
“When children still have their baby teeth, they may show signs of needing early orthodontic interventions to correct certain problems.”
Phase 1 of Treatment
During phase 1 treatment, the orthodontist may use a variety of dental appliances to help align the patient's teeth. Phase 1 treatment usually occurs when the child still has their baby teeth. There are also some early orthodontics treatments that use braces during phase 1.
The orthodontist may use space maintainers or spacers to help space out crowded teeth. Expanders are also used during some phase 1 treatment plans to help gently expand the palate. Phase 1 treatment may also consist of appliances such as headgear, retainers, and braces to guide the jawbone and permanent teeth growth into a better position.
“Phase 1 treatment may also consist of appliances such as headgear, retainers, and braces to guide the jawbone and permanent teeth growth into a better position.”
Treatment Timeline
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should see an orthodontist by age 7. Phase 1 orthodontics typically begins around age 6 and up to age 9. This treatment phase may last between nine and 18 months, depending on the severity and specifics of the child's bite or teeth alignment problems.
“This treatment phase may last between nine and 18 months, depending on the severity and specifics of the child’s bite or teeth alignment problems.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Early Orthodontic Treatment in Richland, WA
Moving Onto Phase 2 of Treatment
After completing phase 1, the next step is phase 2 orthodontic treatment. Midtown Dental carefully evaluates each patient's progress during phase 1 before transitioning to the next step. Here is what happens during phase 2 of an early orthodontic treatment plan:
- Resting. Some patients may need to enter a resting phase before starting phase 2. During this step, the patient may need to only wear a retainer and have monitoring appointments. When the teeth are in the resting stage, the orthodontist will not place new dental appliances or braces.
- Straightening. Then, the child is ready for braces. Our staff places the wires, bands, and brackets onto the child’s teeth during an appointment. This stage may take between 12 and 24 months.
- Monitoring. Throughout the phase 2 treatment, the patient must come in for regular monitoring appointments. During an appointment, the dental provider will check the patient’s progress and may make adjustments. Once treatment is done, the orthodontist may recommend wearing a retainer to keep the teeth in alignment.
“Some patients may need to enter a resting phase before starting phase 2.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What causes early orthodontic problems?
Q. What happens during phase 1 of treatment?
Q. What are the phases of treatment?
Q. What happens during phase 2 of treatment?
Q. When should phase 2 be postponed?
People Also Ask
Q. Can sealants protect against cavity-forming bacteria?
When To Postpone Treatment Until Phase 2
While a two-phased approach to orthodontics can benefit many cases, some patients may be fine skipping phase 1. If the child has already lost most of their baby teeth, it may be better to opt for phase 2 treatment only. Additionally, there are some patients with minor problems that may not need extensive phase 1 intervention.
“If the child has already lost most of their baby teeth, it may be better to opt for phase 2 treatment only.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Early Orthodontic Treatment
Q. Why is age 7 the magic number for child orthodontics?
A. At age 6 or 7, children still have most of their baby teeth. According to the American Dental Association, most children this age also have their permanent two front teeth and first adult molars. These adult teeth are key in determining a child's bite and evaluating their teeth alignment.
Q. How often should children go to appointments for an early orthodontics treatment plan?
A. During the phase 1 treatment stage, children may have to come to the office for appointments every four to eight weeks. These regular monitoring appointments are necessary to check progress. After the child transitions to phase 2, there will still be a need to attend regular monitoring and adjustment appointments.
Q. How is an expander used in phase 1 orthodontics?
A. An expander is a dental appliance used in orthodontic treatment to enlarge the palate structure. This helps make more room for the adult teeth and phase 2 treatment. Children may be fitted with upper or lower palate expanders in their mouth for a series of weeks or months.
Q. What are spacers during early orthodontics?
A. Some patients may need spacers during the first few months of early orthodontics treatment. Spacers are small bands that are placed between the teeth to help open up the space for future dental appliances. Rubber spacers may be worn for a week or two, and metal spacers for longer.
Q. What are some post-procedure care steps for early orthodontics?
A. Since early orthodontic treatment is a multi-stage process, there may be several instances of post-procedure care. After children get an expander, dental appliance, or braces, there may be a period of time with some minor discomfort. The orthodontist may also provide instructions about temporary diet modifications a few hours after treatment.
Scan here to view this page, Early Orthodontic Treatment, on mobile
Dental Terminology
Call Us To Find Out More
To get your child evaluated for possible early orthodontics treatment, call us today at 509-392-7180. Not every child is a candidate for a two-phased treatment, and only an orthodontist can determine the proper course of action. In Richland we provide complete orthodontic services for all phases of treatment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
About our business and website security
- Midtown Dental was established in 1980.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Benton County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Richland, West Richland, Kennewick, Benton City, Finley, and Pasco
- National Provider Identifier Database (1295081859). View NPI Registry Information
- Healthgrades. View Background Information and Reviews
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Midtown Dental on mobile
Back to top of Early Orthodontic Treatment
Related Posts
What Is Periodontics?
Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on studying, diagnosing, and treating issues that affect the gums and the bone structures that support teeth. Periodontal disease is the leading dental problem that periodontics focuses on.Periodontal disease is an infection of gum tissues caused by the bacteria in plaque and tartar getting below the gum…
Emergency Dentist Visit For Children
Looking for an emergency dentist in case your child experiences a dental emergency? It is a good idea to plan ahead of time. While some pediatric dentists offer emergency dental services, not all do. However, those who do, understand the importance of providing emergency dental care services, especially when the emergency has to do with…
Root Canal Aftercare: Tips For A Smooth Recovery
Finding out that you need a root canal can be nerve-racking. Caring for the treated tooth can be even more stressful. Knowing what to do after the treatment can help you prepare well for it. Here are some tips for a smooth and quick recovery after your root canal.The patient must wait to eat as…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Midtown Dental on mobile