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 What is Orthodontics? | What to Expect | Types of Treatment | Financial/Insurance  Pre-Phase TreatmentAn early minor interceptive approach for a particular problem which needs to be addressed immediately during the mixed dentition (permanent and baby teeth present). Phase I Treatment An interceptive treatment program generally started in the late mixed dentition (mostly permanent teeth present with a few baby teeth remaining) in order to control jaw growth discrepancies (orthopedic problems) or gain space for the permanent teeth if crowding is present. This type of treatment is designed to reduce the severity of the malocclusion (improper bite) before the eruption of all the permanent teeth. This generally involves wearing what patients call "retainers" (auxiliary or orthopedic appliances), primarily the MARA or Herbst to control jaw growth. Partial braces may be utilized, if necessary, for front tooth alignment and arch development. A Phase I treatment program is usually about a year in duration followed by Phase II treatment. Occasionally, a holding or observation period is necessary lasting a few months to a year or two in some cases. During this period your child's growth and development are monitored to determine the ideal time to start the second phase of treatment. Because of the new technology (Damon System braces) and modern orthopedic appliances (MARA), the need for rapid palatal expansion and headgears, have virtually been eliminated in our practice. Phase II Treatment Initiated at the time the permanent dentition is erupting to finish the alignment of the teeth and maintain control over any growth imbalances using full braces. This is the same as full comprehensive treatment, however, the treatment period is generally shorter because major growth problems are already corrected or under control from Phase I therapy. Full Comprehensive Treatment This generally involves wearing full braces along with various auxiliary appliances (primarily elastics), as needed, to correct the bite problem. The treatment time will vary according to the severity of the problem, however, by employing state of art appliances and force systems, treatment times can be substantially reduced. TMD Therapy Treatment for joint problems (commonly called "TMJ problems"). Temporal mandibular dysfunction therapy may involve wearing some type of splint because of pain or for diagnostic purposes. Depending on the nature of the problem full comprehensive treatment may be necessary. Surgical Orthodontic Treatment This may be a consideration, particularly in an adult, with a severe skeletal misalignment of the jaws. However, many cases that require surgery to achieve an ideal result can benefit from orthodontic treatment to reduce the severity of the problem, if the patient is unwilling to consider surgery. Diagnostic records may be necessary to determine if a suitable compromise can be achieved orthodontically in this type of case. No treatment indicated at this time If a malocclusion (bad bite) is present, periodic observation visits will be recommended (usually between 3 and 6 months) to determine the appropriate time to start an interceptive or full comprehensive phase of treatment. The decision to start treatment depends on the degree of the problem, as well as, the patient's level of growth and development. Back to Top |
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