Orthodontic therapy is a process, not a single procedure. Long-term stability is the ultimate measure of a successfully treated orthodontic case. Stability occurs when dental movement, growth modification (orthopedic forces) and genetics are balanced in the treatment plan.
Every child is a work in progress towards its mature adult form. Frequently, timely orthodontic intervention during the growth phase is needed for proper orthodontic corrections. For that reason, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends an initial orthodontic evaluation when the child is approximately seven years old. Some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected early rather than waiting until growth has slowed or stopped. Early treatment may help a patient avoid surgery or other serious corrections later in life. To encourage the early evaluation, there is no charge for an initial consultation.
After performing an initial evaluation the patient will be placed in one of the following orthodontic stages:
Guidance of Eruption (Pre-Orthodontic)
Guidance of Eruption is a passive phase of orthodontic evaluation to monitor facial growth and dental development. The visits to our office during this observation phase are quick, easy and are scheduled anywhere from 3 – 12 months apart depending on the particular orthodontic assessment.
During this phase selective extraction of deciduous teeth (baby teeth) may be recommended to encourage the passive alignment and proper eruption of the permanent teeth.
Phase I (Early Guidance)
When necessary, significant dental and/or skeletal problems are corrected by utilizing growth orthopedics, limited braces, and cooperation-dependant appliances. Phase I treatment may prevent surgical correction at a future date, may prevent extraction of permanent teeth at a future date, may decrease the severity or eliminate the need of future treatment and produce a more stable result when all orthodontics is complete. Phase I treatment is typically active for 12-18 months and may include holding appliances until all permanent teeth erupt. Most patients require Phase II treatment at approximately age 12 to complete treatment and fully correct the bite.
Phase II (Full Treatment)
When all or most of the permanent teeth are present, definitive orthodontic treatment is completed. This treatment can range from removable appliances to full braces in both dental arches. The goal of Phase II is to correct all esthetic and bite related problems.
Retention
During this stage the patient wears retainers. A retainer is a device worn full or part-time after braces have been removed. Retainers are designed to allow your teeth to settle into a proper and stable position and for the bones and muscles to adapt to new dental positions.
Surgical Orthodontics (Orthognathic Surgery)
In cases with severe jaw misalignment, surgery may be required in conjunction with orthodontic treatment. This surgery occurs after growth is completed and usually occurs during the middle of orthodontic treatment. An oral surgeon who works closely with us will perform the surgery so that we can achieve the optimal results.