Orthodontic treatment can occur in a single phase or multiple phases. For some children, early treatment is essential in preventing or fixing more serious oral health issues. Other children benefit from more traditional treatment, after age 10 or 11. Known as phase II orthodontics, children must have all their permanent teeth before beginning this later phase.
Phase II orthodontics can treat all types of oral issues, including:
- Misaligned or protruding teeth
- Gaps in teeth
- Overcrowded teeth
- Jaws and bites that don’t align properly
- Malocclusion (poor bite)
- Difficulties with speaking, chewing, or eating
Phase II orthodontics often involves non-removable braces with brackets, but can also include appliances like palatal expanders, bands, and aligners.
Phase II orthodontics may or may not include a phase I treatment phase. Dr. Severs can help you decide the best course of treatment for your little one or yourself.