Early Treatment and Growth Monitoring

Two-Phase Treatment: What Is It?

Orthodontic care is often divided into two phases. Phase 1, or early interceptive treatment, focuses on addressing issues before they become more serious. This can include managing crowding, guiding jaw growth, correcting spacing problems, or helping break habits like thumb-sucking. While not every child requires Phase 1 treatment, a consultation with Dr. Patel at Quest Orthodontics will provide a personalized assessment and recommendations. Some signs that may indicate the need for early treatment include:

• Crowding


• Underbites or Overbites


• Open Bites


• Protruding Front Teeth


• Significant Spacing


• Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth


• Jaw Growth & Development Concerns

Starting treatment early can prevent more complex problems in the future and may shorten the length or complexity of future orthodontic care. In some cases, early intervention can achieve results that are not possible once jaw growth is complete. A proactive Phase 1 evaluation gives your child the best opportunity for a healthy, confident smile. 

What Appliances Are Used During Phase 1 Treatment?

If early treatment is recommended, various orthodontic appliances may be used to guide your child’s dental development. At Quest Orthodontics, Dr. Patel may suggest one or more of the following appliances based on your child's specific needs:

• Upper Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE): Widens the upper jaw to correct crossbites and create more space for permanent teeth.


• Lower Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE): Expands the lower jaw to improve alignment and address crowding.


• Herbst Appliance: Helps correct bite issues by encouraging forward growth of the lower jaw, often used to treat severe overbites.


• Tongue Crib: A habit-correcting device designed to help stop thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting, which can negatively impact jaw and tooth alignment.

Dr. Patel and the Quest Orthodontics team will explain each appliance option and how it may benefit your child. With a compassionate approach and years of expertise, they are dedicated to providing personalized, effective care in a comfortable environment.

Starting treatment early can prevent more complex problems in the future and may shorten the length or complexity of future orthodontic care. In some cases, early intervention can achieve results that are not possible once jaw growth is complete.

What Are Expanders?

In Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, an expander, such as an Upper Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE) or a Lower Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE), can be used to address a variety of issues related to jaw growth and dental alignment. Here's how an expander can help:

• Correcting Crossbites: If the upper jaw is too narrow, it can lead to a crossbite where the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth. An expander gradually widens the upper jaw to correct this misalignment, improving both function and appearance.


• Creating Space for Permanent Teeth: Expanders can make more room for permanent teeth to emerge properly, reducing the need for extractions or more invasive treatments later on. This is especially helpful in cases of crowding.


• Improving Breathing and Airway Function: In some cases, a narrow upper jaw can restrict the airway, contributing to breathing issues like mouth breathing or sleep-disordered breathing. Widening the jaw can improve airflow.


• Guiding Proper Jaw Growth: Expanders are most effective in younger children because the jawbones are still developing. Using an expander during Phase 1 can help ensure the jaws grow in balance, potentially preventing more severe skeletal issues.


• Preventing Impacted Teeth: By creating adequate space, expanders can reduce the likelihood of teeth becoming impacted or growing in the wrong direction.

If Dr. Patel recommends an expander for your child, it’s typically a straightforward and comfortable process. Regular adjustments will gradually move the jaw to its desired position, providing long-term benefits for oral health and development.

Phase 2 Treatment

Phase 2 orthodontics is the second part of a comprehensive orthodontic treatment plan that typically follows Phase 1. While Phase 1 focuses on addressing early issues with jaw growth and creating space for permanent teeth, Phase 2 is designed to fine-tune and perfect the alignment of all permanent teeth for a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile.

The primary goals of Phase 2 orthodontics include:

• Aligning All Permanent Teeth: Ensuring teeth are properly positioned for an ideal bite and aesthetic smile.


• Correcting Bite Issues: Addressing any remaining overbites, underbites, crossbites, or open bites.


• Improving Jaw and Facial Harmony: Ensuring the upper and lower jaws are in alignment for proper function.


• Enhancing Long-Term Oral Health: Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems.

What Does Phase 2 Treatment Involve?

During Phase 2, orthodontic appliances are often used to achieve these goals. Treatment may include:

• Braces: Traditional metal or clear braces are commonly used to move teeth into their correct positions.


• Clear Aligners: For older children and teens, clear aligners like Invisalign may be an option for a more discreet treatment.


• Retainers: After treatment, retainers are often used to maintain the new alignment of the teeth.

When Does Phase 2 Begin?

Phase 2 treatment usually begins once most or all of the permanent teeth have erupted, generally between ages 11 and 14. However, the timing can vary depending on each child's unique dental development and the success of Phase 1 treatment.

If your child has completed Phase 1 treatment, regular check-ups with Dr. Patel at Quest Orthodontics will help determine when Phase 2 should begin. This final phase will help ensure your child has a well-aligned, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.